In the dynamic world of the NFL, standout performances often carve a permanent niche in the annals of sports history. In 2023, Brandon Aubrey took a significant step forward in his career, securing his spot as the Dallas Cowboys' first-team All-Pro kicker, a recognition that crowns a trajectory of impressive feats and strategic kick attempts.
Record-Breaking Performance at AT&T Stadium
During Week 3, Aubrey sent shockwaves through the league by booting a mighty 65-yard field goal against the Baltimore Ravens at the Cowboys' home venue, AT&T Stadium. This achievement not only became a personal milestone but also marked the longest field goal in the Dallas Cowboys' storied history and the second-longest ever recorded in the NFL. Head coach Mike McCarthy lauded Aubrey’s feat, noting, "He's so impressive with his consistency from that distance."
The Ambitious 70-Yard Attempt
Fast forward to Week 15, where the Cowboys faced the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte. Aubrey showcased his audacity yet again by attempting a 70-yard field goal — a rare and daring move outdoors. Alas, the ambitious attempt veered wide to the left, providing an opportunity for Deven Thompkins, who ran the missed kick back for 37 yards. John "Bones" Fassel, the Cowboys' special teams coordinator, echoed the sentiment of the moment with a candid admission: "The worst thing that could happen is they put a returner back there, and we have to cover."
The Mechanics Behind the Attempt
In dissecting the mechanics of Aubrey's 70-yard attempt, Fassel shared insights into the challenges of executing such a kick under adverse conditions. "You see on tape, he did a little skip step, and he just tried to drive it," Fassel explained, painting a tactical picture of the effort. "Seventy-yarder into the wind, that was different, and that was going to take extra," he added, emphasizing the physical and environmental barriers Aubrey had to overcome.
Looking Forward to Future Attempts
While the 70-yard kick didn’t find its mark, it underscored a strategic willingness on the part of the Cowboys to take calculated risks. Fassel further remarked, "If we get in that position again, I'm sure we'll attempt it again, taking the conditions into factor." The Cowboys' eagerness to capitalize on Aubrey's remarkable leg strength is evident, as Fassel confidently stated, "Yeah, he's got 70 in him, for sure."
The Road Ahead
As the Cowboys anticipate their upcoming games, the focus remains on capitalizing on home-field advantage. Weeks 16 and 18 are scheduled to unfold back at AT&T Stadium, where Aubrey's kicking prowess has been consistently reliable. There's also the Week 17 face-off against a formidable rival, the Philadelphia Eagles, where weather and outdoor elements may once again play a defining role. McCarthy's comment, "I wish we were indoors," captures the looming considerations that accompany an away game during the winter months.
As Brandon Aubrey continues to push the limits of kicking in the NFL, the Cowboys' coaching staff and fans alike remain hopeful for more stellar performances and entertaining spectacles. Aubrey's journey in 2023, punctuated by record-breaking moments and near-misses, magnifies the thrilling unpredictability of football — a blend of precision, ambition, and unwavering determination.