A Historic Kick and Aiming Higher: Brandon Aubrey's Unprecedented Season
In the fast-paced world of the NFL, few moments capture the collective breath of fans quite like a long field goal attempt. This season, Dallas Cowboys kicker Brandon Aubrey found himself at the center of such history-making moments, etching his name into the annals of NFL lore.
Aubrey Makes Waves
In 2023, Brandon Aubrey elevated his game to become the Dallas Cowboys' first-team All-Pro kicker. His trailblazing performance came to a head during Week 3 against the Baltimore Ravens when he executed a stunning 65-yard field goal at AT&T Stadium. That record-breaking kick not only marked the longest in Cowboys history but also secured the spot as the second-longest in NFL history. Aubrey's precision and power were on full display, captivating fans and carving out a place for himself in the league’s storied history.
"He's so impressive with his consistency from that distance," praised Cowboys' head coach Mike McCarthy, succinctly capturing the sentiment of admiration surrounding Aubrey’s achievement. The long-distance fulfillment didn’t just inspire the team but also set a new benchmark in kicking excellence.
Pushing the Boundaries
Aubrey's exploits didn’t stop there. By Week 15, the Cowboys found themselves facing the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte. Given the opportunity to attempt an unprecedented 70-yard field goal, Aubrey faced the challenge head-on. Unfortunately, despite a valiant effort, the kick sailed wide to the left. Reflecting on the attempt, McCarthy remarked with a tinge of regret, "I wish we were indoors," emphasizing the tricky conditions impacting the outcome.
Cowboys' special teams coordinator, John "Bones" Fassel, provided insights into their fearless approach: "We said if we get anywhere in that neck of the woods, we're going to give it a big old whack." He continued, "Yeah, he's got 70 in him, for sure," expressing unwavering belief in Aubrey's exceptional talent. The audacious attempt was driven not just by strategy but by confidence in Aubrey’s ability to make history once more.
The Challenge of a 70-Yarder
Attempting a 70-yard field goal outdoors is no small task, as Fassel elaborated, "Seventy-yarder into the wind, that was different, and that was going to take extra." The mechanics of such a kick present inherent risks. "It’s going to come out low, and a block, you never know who ends up with the ball in their hands," Fassel noted, speaking to the unpredictability of such ambitious plays. When Aubrey's attempt went wide, Deven Thompkins capitalized, returning the missed kick for 37 yards and underscoring how high-stakes decisions in professional football can swing wildly.
Despite the challenges, the Cowboys’ commitment to pushing the limits remains unshaken. Fassel expressed determination and readiness for future opportunities: "If we get in that position again, I'm sure we’ll attempt it again, taking the conditions into factor."
Looking Ahead
The Cowboys' season is far from over, with Weeks 16 and 18 slated to bring games back home to the friendly confines of AT&T Stadium. Aubrey will surely have more opportunities to showcase his record-setting leg in familiar surroundings. Meanwhile, a crucial away game looms in Week 17 against the Philadelphia Eagles, offering another high-profile arena for Aubrey to shine.
Brandon Aubrey's journey this season is one marked by groundbreaking achievements, audacious attempts, and the relentless pursuit of football excellence. As the Cowboys anticipate their upcoming encounters, one undeniable fact remains: Aubrey has set a new standard for what is possible, promising thrilling feats from the kicking tee for seasons to come.