Why Icing The Kicker Does Not Work

Introduction

The phenomenon known as icing the kicker involves calling a timeout just before a kicker attempts a field goal, aiming to disrupt their focus and increase the chances of a miss.

Table of ContentsIntroductionAction Bias in Sports PsychologyWhy Icing the Kicker Does Not WorkMedia Influence on PerceptionExamples of Misguided Sports CommentaryCase Studies and Historical DataComparative Kicker Rates: Iced vs. Uniced KickersImplications for Coaches and PlayersEncouraging Informed Discussions Among FansFAQs

This strategy has become a staple in football, often cheered or jeered amongst analysts. But icing the kicker does not work!

This article delves into the myth of icing the kicker, examining scientific studies, psychological factors, and statistical analyses to determine whether this tactic truly enhances a team’s chance of success on crucial kicks.

Why Icing the kicker does not work.[image error]

Icing the kicker is primarily employed in high-pressure situations, usually during the dying moments of a game. Coaches hope that by forcing a timeout, they will throw off the kicker’s rhythm and routine.

The underlying belief is that the additional time will increase the pressure on the kicker, because they will think more, which will lead to a mistake.

However, icing the kicker does not work because this tactic is not as straightforward as it seems and is surrounded by various misconceptions.

The effectiveness of icing the kicker hinges on multiple factors, including the kicker’s mental fortitude, experience, and the specific game context. Kicking a field goal, especially in a high-stakes environment, is inherently stressful. Therefore, the question arises: does a timeout truly amplify this stress, or can it provide a moment for the kicker to gather their thoughts and enhance their focus?

Overview of Field Goal Success Rates

Field goal success rates vary based on numerous variables, including distance, weather conditions, and the kicker’s skill level. Historically, the average success rate for field goals in the NFL hovers around 85%, though this can drop significantly with increased distance. Understanding these statistics is crucial for assessing the validity of the icing tactic.

Moreover, different kickers have their own unique success rates, influenced by factors like pressure situations and individual performance under stress. The debate over icing often overlooks these finer details, leading to a misunderstanding of what truly impacts a kicker’s performance.

The Science Behind Icing the KickerAction Bias in Sports Psychology

One significant psychological concept at play is action bias, which refers to the tendency to favor action over inaction, particularly in high-pressure scenarios.

Coaches often feel compelled to take action, such as calling a timeout, rather than not! This bias can lead to the assumption that doing something—like icing the kicker—will yield better results than doing nothing.

They are conditioned like all of us, that doing something HAS TO be better than doing nothing! 

In addition, IF a coach DOES NOT call timeout, they first question from the media is: “Why did you not call timeout?”  Whereas, the opposite is never true, media never asks, “why did you call a timeout?” 

Research in sports psychology indicates that while some athletes thrive under pressure, others may falter. Icing the kicker may also serve as a moment for the kicker to reset and focus and not be rushed heading onto the field. The net effect of this timeout is not be as advantageous as coaches believe.

Why Icing the Kicker Does Not Work

Recent studies have analyzed the effects of icing on field goal success rates, revealing that the tactic often produces negligible results. A comprehensive analysis of multiple seasons in the NFL showed that kickers are remarkably resilient, and the success rates for iced versus “uniced” kicks are often statistically similar.

In fact, some kickers perform better when given a moment to compose themselves, suggesting that icing can backfire. This evidence challenges the traditional notion that a timeout inherently disrupts a kicker’s focus and calls into question long-held beliefs within the sport.

Why Sport Announcers Continue to Defend Icing the KickerMedia Influence on Perception

Whenever a timeout is called, this is the announcers opportunity to insert ” Icing the kicker” cliche.

Despite the mounting evidence that suggests icing the kicker does not work, many sports commentators continue to promote and defend the tactic. This persistence may stem from a desire to create drama during broadcasts or the influence of conventional wisdom. The narrative that timeouts can disrupt a kicker’s rhythm is appealing, as it adds a layer of tension to the game.

This media portrayal often perpetuates myths in sports, leading fans to believe that icing is a vital strategic move. As a result, coaches may feel pressured to adopt this approach, regardless of its actual effectiveness. The disconnect between statistical evidence and media narratives creates a gap in understanding among fans and analysts alike.

Examples of Misguided Sports Commentary

Throughout sports history, there are numerous instances where commentators have incorrectly attributed game outcomes to timeouts or icing the kicker. For example, during a critical playoff game, an announcer remarked that a timeout called just before a field goal attempt would surely rattle the kicker. When the kicker subsequently nailed the field goal, the commentary shifted to suggest that the timeout was irrelevant, ignoring the possibility that the kicker might have been unfazed all along. This is just another media bias that reveals why icing the kicker does not work.

Such examples highlight a broader issue with sports commentary: reliance on anecdotal evidence rather than data-driven analysis. This trend not only misleads fans but also influences coaching decisions that may not be based on sound reasoning.

Statistical Analysis of Timeout Effects on Field GoalsCase Studies and Historical Data

Analyzing specific case studies can provide further insight into the efficacy of icing the kicker. One notable study looked at all field goal attempts in the NFL over five seasons, comparing those that occurred with timeouts called against those that did not. The findings revealed no significant difference in success rates, undermining the rationale behind icing.

Another compelling example comes from a 2015 playoff game where a team called a timeout before a critical kick. The kicker, rather than being fazed, successfully converted the attempt, allowing his team to advance. This instance echoes a wider trend where kickers seem to maintain their composure, regardless of timeouts.

Comparative Kicker Rates: Iced vs. Uniced KickersKicker StatusSuccess Rate (%)Iced83Uniced84Statistical analysis

The table above illustrates that even after accounting for pressure and other variables, the difference in success rates between iced and “uniced” kickers is marginal (if any). This data suggests that timeouts may not provide the intended strategic advantage.

ConclusionRevisiting the Myth: Icing the Kicker Does Not Work

As this topic reveals, the strategy of icing the kicker is more myth than fact. While coaches may believe they are gaining an upper hand, statistical evidence and action-bias research suggest otherwise. The notion that calling a timeout will reliably disrupt a kicker’s focus is increasingly being questioned in light of data-driven findings.

Implications for Coaches and Players

Understanding the limited effectiveness of why icing the kicker does not work should prompt coaches to reconsider their strategies. Instead of relying on outdated tactics, coaches could focus on doing the opposite:

DO NOT CALL TIMEOUT!

By fostering a culture of resilience rather than one of reliance on timeouts, teams may find more success in crucial moments.

Encouraging Informed Discussions Among Fans

Finally, as sports fans, it’s crucial to engage in informed discussions about tactics and strategies rather than accepting popular beliefs at face value. By understanding the intricacies behind game strategies like icing the kicker, fans can appreciate the complexities of the sport more deeply. Knowledge not only enriches the viewing experience but also fosters a more nuanced understanding of the game.

FAQsWhat is icing the kicker?

Icing the kicker refers to the strategy of calling a timeout just before a kicker attempts a field goal, with the intention of disrupting their focus and increasing the chances of a miss.

Does icing the kicker actually improve field goal success rates?

No, studies have shown that icing the kicker has little to no effect on field goal success rates. Data indicates that kickers are resilient and often perform similarly regardless of a timeout.

Why do commentators still support icing the kicker?

Commentators often perpetuate the belief in icing due to media narratives that create drama, rather than relying on data-driven analysis. This can lead to misconceptions among fans and coaches.

What should coaches do instead of icing the kicker?

Coaches should NOT call timeout and instead do the opposite! On offense, they should focus on training kickers to handle pressure effectively, fostering a positive environment rather than relying on timeouts to disrupt their performance.

 

Dr. Rob Bell is a Sport Psychology Coach. DRB & associates coach executives and professional athletes. Some clients have included three different winners on the PGA Tour, Indy Eleven, University of Notre Dame, Marriott, and Walgreens. 

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