VIDEO: Panthers Attempt Rare 'Fair Catch Free Kick' and Miss Wide Right
By Michael Luciano
During the Panthers-Buccaneers game across the pond in London on Sunday, British fans were treated to a rule book anomaly that most American fans probably haven't seen in an NFL game. After Carolina called for a fair catch with one second left in the first half, Carolina elected to take a "free kick" that would have awarded them three points if they managed to sneak it in between the uprights. Unfortunately, kicker Joey Slye hooked it right.
Ever heard of a the NFL’s little-used “fair catch free kick” rule?
— Vic Lombardi (@VicLombardi) October 13, 2019
Here it is.
Wide left. pic.twitter.com/O2O6SEFkxK
He had the leg from 60 yards, but not the accuracy.
Better luck next time, Joey!
The wait for the first made fair catch kick since 1976 continues. https://t.co/y6JARgR5c6 pic.twitter.com/WLW5jhvuOI
— Quirky Research (@QuirkyResearch) October 13, 2019
This is actually inspired by rugby's "goal from mark" rule, so maybe the Brits were less confused than the millions of Americans who were left scratching their head.