As the Super Bowl festivities approach, many eyes are not just on the game, but also on the sidelines, where former NFL star Rob Gronkowski is gearing up for an unusual challenge. Last year, in a heavily publicized event by FanDuel, the tight end-turned-TV personality missed a 25-yard field goal. This year, he's got a shot at redemption – and there's a lot riding on his leg. Should he split the uprights, fans stand to win a share of a jaw-dropping $10 million in bonus bets.
From Playing Field to Kicking Tee
It's a surprise return by Gronkowski to the pressure cooker of Super Bowl Sunday, albeit in a far different role than during his storied career. Trading touchdown catches for field goal tries, Gronk has been working to ensure his second foray into kicking is more successful than his first. Adam Vinatieri, regarded as one of the finest kickers in the history of the league, was his mentor prior to his inaugural attempt. However, despite Gronkowski's extensive experience in the NFL -- 143 games played before hanging up his cleats in 2021 -- and previous participation in youth Punt, Pass, and Kick competitions, his soccer-style approach last year was thwarted by windy conditions. This time, the forecast for Las Vegas predicts more favorable weather, with only light winds expected, potentially giving Gronk the edge he needs to hit the mark.
Marketing Masterstroke
Last year's stunt proved to be a significant win for FanDuel, regardless of Gronk's miss. The "Kick of Destiny" didn't just generate buzz; it increased their brand share by 10 percentage points. The continued partnership underscores the power of high-profile promotions in engaging the audience beyond the conventional betting mechanisms. Through this event, FanDuel allows its users to rally behind "Team Make" or "Team Miss," with their bets on whether Gronkowski will make good on his second chance.
To date, a whopping 75 percent of FanDuel's customers are placing their faith in Gronk's leg, betting on "Team Make." The kick will be streamed live from the Las Vegas Valley, with Gronkowski keen to prove the majority right. He's disclosed that roughly 85 percent of his practice kicks have been on target, including some from at least 40 yards out, boding well for his chances on the big day.
Newfound Respect for the Role
Gronkowski's foray into the world of kicking has given him a new perspective and a deeper respect for what professional kickers endure. Far from the running and catching he was renowned for, kicking a football through the posts, especially with the game on the line, is no small feat. In Gronkowski's own words: "I feel for them; it’s a tough job and, on top of it, they are doing it with the game on the line."
Confident Words from a Confident Man
The confidence Gronkowski emanates is palpable, "I’m not going to miss again," he asserts, reflecting a determination to rectify last year’s embarrassing miss. His robust practice regimen has seemingly paid dividends, as Gronkowski adds, "I feel more confident, because where I started last year it was embarrassing." The tight end, known during his playing days for his clutch performances, seems to maintain that demeanor in his new challenge.
The man behind the event, FanDuel's Andrew Sneyd, recounts the moment the decision was made to give Gronk another shot: "He looked up and said, ‘Andrew, we have to do this again.’" There's a shared belief between the two that this spectacle can capture the excitement and drama that only the Super Bowl can provide, while also leaving a legacy for Gronk in a completely different aspect of the football world.
Conclusion
Whether Gronkowski converts or not, the "Kick of Destiny" is a testament to his athletic prowess, showmanship, and the sheer marketing ingenuity of sports betting entities like FanDuel. Millions will be watching to see if Gronk can indeed rewrite the script from last year's attempt, leaving fans and bettors hanging on the flight of a football once again.