The Field Goal Distance Calculator helps football players, coaches, and fans figure out the exact length of a field goal attempt during a game. Knowing the correct distance is important for deciding whether to kick or go for a first down. This tool removes guesswork and gives a quick answer by adding standard yardage for the holder and the end zone. This calculator belongs to the Sports Measurement Calculator category and is commonly used in American football at all levels.
formula of Field Goal Distance Calculator
Field Goal Distance = Line of Scrimmage + 17 Yards
Where:
Line of Scrimmage is the yard line where the ball is snapped
17 Yards is a standard value made up of:
- 7 yards: the distance from the line of scrimmage to where the holder places the ball
- 10 yards: the depth of the end zone
So, the full version is:
Field Goal Distance (yards) = Yard Line + 7 + 10
Or simply:
Field Goal Distance = Yard Line + 17
Common Field Goal Distances Reference Table
This table shows typical yard lines and their matching field goal distances so you can check quickly without calculating.
Line of Scrimmage (Yard Line) | Field Goal Distance (Yards) |
---|---|
10 | 27 |
20 | 37 |
30 | 47 |
35 | 52 |
40 | 57 |
50 | 67 |
This helps players and fans estimate how challenging a kick will be.
Example of Field Goal Distance Calculator
Let’s check an example step by step.
Suppose the ball is on the 25-yard line.
- Use the formula:
Field Goal Distance = 25 + 17
Field Goal Distance = 42 yards
This means the kicker will attempt a 42-yard field goal.
Most Common FAQs
We add 7 yards because the holder sits 7 yards behind the snap line to catch and place the ball. We also add 10 yards for the end zone depth, which the ball must clear to score.
No. The add-on is the same: 7 yards for the holder and 10 yards for the end zone. However, the hash mark positions can affect the kick angle, not the distance.
Wind and field conditions can affect how easy or hard the kick is but do not change the actual yardage. Always check weather and field surface before deciding to kick.