Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell's decision to attempt an onside kick during the fourth quarter of their game against the Buffalo Bills sparked controversy and criticism, particularly from NFL veteran J.J. Watt. Trailing by only 10 points with around 12 minutes remaining in the game, Campbell opted for the onside kick, a move that backfired when Bills receiver Mack Hollins returned the ball 38 yards, setting up a Buffalo touchdown and extending their lead to 17 points.
Watt expressed his bewilderment on social media platform X, questioning the logic behind the decision given the game situation and the statistically low success rate of onside kicks. He highlighted the inherent risk, comparing it to wrestling a bear – just because you *think* you can do it doesn't mean you should. Watt acknowledged Campbell's faith in his team but emphasized the impracticality of the call.
The Bills ultimately secured a 48-42 victory. Campbell later admitted his regret, conceding that he anticipated recovering the kick but ultimately wished he hadn't made the attempt.
Current rules require teams to declare their intention for an onside kick, limiting its use to the fourth quarter and effectively eliminating the element of surprise. The low success rate of these kicks has led NFL executive Troy Vincent to suggest revisiting the rules to revitalize what he considers a “dead play.” Vincent proposed considering allowing onside kicks in any quarter and reintroducing elements of surprise, with the goal of making every play competitive.
The Philadelphia Eagles had previously proposed an alternative to the onside kick, suggesting a 4th-and-20 attempt from a team’s own 20-yard line as a way to regain possession.
