Enter the distance from the scrimmage line to the goal line (yds) into the Field Goal Distance Calculator. The calculator will evaluate and display the Field Goal Distance. 

Field Goal Distance Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the Field Goal Distance. 

FGD = SG + 17
  • Where FGD is the Field Goal Distance (yards)
  • SG is the distance from the scrimmage line to the goal line (yds) 

To calculate the distance of a field goal attempt, add 17 to the distance from the scrimmage line to the goal line.

How to Calculate Field Goal Distance?

The following example problems outline how to calculate Field Goal Distance.

Example Problem #1:

  1. First, determine the distance from the scrimmage line to the goal line (yds).
    • The distance from the scrimmage line to the goal line (yds) is given as: 35.
  2. Finally, calculate the Field Goal Distance using the equation above: 

FGD = SG + 17

The values given above are inserted into the equation below and the solution is calculated:

FGD = 35 + 17 = 52 (yards)


Example Problem #2: 

For this problem, the variables needed are provided below:

distance from the scrimmage line to the goal line (yds) = 40

This example problem is a test of your knowledge on the subject. Use the calculator above to check your answer. 

FGD = SG + 17 = ?