<P> A fake field goal is a trick play in American football . Simply, it involves a running or passing play done out of a kick formation . Usually the holder (often the punter or backup quarterback on most teams) will throw or run . Danny White was both quarterback and punter for the Dallas Cowboys in the 1980s and often executed this play . Less frequently, the placekicker, who virtually never handles the ball in an American football game, will serve as the passer or rusher on a fake field goal . Examples include then - New England kicker Adam Vinatieri receiving a direct snap and throwing a touchdown pass during an NFL game in 2004, and LSU kicker Colt David rushing for a 15 - yard touchdown in 2007 after receiving the ball on a blind lateral from holder (and starting quarterback) Matt Flynn . </P>

Can you fake a field goal in the nfl