Part 3/7:
The free kick opportunity arose when a fair catch was called at the end of the half. This rule allows a team to attempt a field goal without rushing from the opposing team if a fair catch is signalled on the last play of a half. Many fans, both American and British, are often unaware of this rule, which is seldom invoked in the NFL. The last successful attempt had been nearly 50 years ago.
Chargers kicker Cameron Dicker was granted the chance to kick a 57-yard field goal as time expired in the half, significantly closing the score gap to a one-point game. As the Chargers went into the locker room, the players seemed to rally around Harbaugh's tactical acumen, a sign that they were ready to rally in the second half.