Aubrey's Ascent: A Kicking Adventure in the NFL
In 2023, the Dallas Cowboys unearthed a gem in Brandon Aubrey, whose remarkable performance as their first-team All-Pro kicker has been turning heads across the NFL. Known for his powerful leg and steely nerve, Aubrey has quickly garnered a reputation as one of the league's most promising specialists.
A Legendary Kick
During a thrilling Week 3 showdown against the Baltimore Ravens at AT&T Stadium, Aubrey etched his name into Cowboys lore by booting a 65-yard field goal. This extraordinary feat set the record for the longest field goal in Cowboys history and secured the second spot for the longest in NFL history. Cowboys' head coach Mike McCarthy commented on Aubrey's performance, saying, "He's so impressive with his consistency from that distance."
The 70-Yard Attempt
Fast forward to Week 15, and Aubrey attempted to elevate his storied season even further with a daring 70-yard field goal in Charlotte against the Carolina Panthers. Unfortunately, the kick veered wide to the left, missing the mark. As fans watched with bated breath, Deven Thompkins seized the opportunity to return the missed kick for 37 yards. Reflecting on the ambitious attempt, the Cowboys' special teams coordinator, John "Bones" Fassel, observed, "Yeah, he's got 70 in him, for sure."
The decision to attempt such a long kick was not made lightly. Fassel explained the team's strategic thinking, "We said if we get anywhere in that neck of the woods, we're going to give it a big old whack." However, he acknowledged the risk involved, noting, "The worst thing that could happen is they put a returner back there, and we have to cover."
Conditions and Consequences
Executing a 70-yard field goal is no small task, especially outdoors and into the wind. "Seventy-yarder into the wind, that was different, and that was going to take extra," Fassel remarked. The swirling conditions added an extra layer of complexity. "It's going to come out low, and a block, you never know who ends up with the ball in their hands," Fassel added, highlighting the inherent risks of such a high-stakes play.
McCarthy himself wished for different circumstances, musing, "I wish we were indoors," hinting at the challenge posed by outdoor stadium conditions.
Looking Ahead
Despite the missed attempt, Fassel expressed confidence in Aubrey’s capabilities, suggesting that the team might not shy away from trying such a distance again, "If we get in that position again, I'm sure we'll attempt it again, taking the conditions into factor." The Cowboys are set to play their final games of the season with Weeks 16 and 18 taking place at AT&T Stadium and a Week 17 away game against the Philadelphia Eagles. These matches will provide further opportunities for Aubrey to showcase his talent and potentially break new records.
As the season progresses, the spotlight remains on Brandon Aubrey, a kicker whose journey is just beginning. His ability to perform under pressure could very well be a critical factor as the Cowboys push towards their playoff aspirations. With accolades already piling up, Aubrey's 2023 season might go down as one of the most memorable for Cowboys fans, full of thrilling moments and unprecedented achievements.