It was a challenging Sunday for the New England Patriots, facing the San Francisco 49ers in a game marked by struggles and scarce highlights.
In a matchup where the Patriots found it difficult to build any momentum, one play stood out remarkably—a stunning field goal by kicker Joey Slye. This moment of brilliance came just before halftime and offered a glimmer of hope in an otherwise tough outing.
A Moment of Brilliance
The Patriots took an audacious risk by sending Slye out to attempt a 63-yard field goal, a decision that would pay off handsomely. Slye drilled the kick, securing the Patriots' only points of the first half. This remarkable achievement tied for the fourth-longest field goal in NFL history and was the second-longest field goal made by any kicker since the start of the 2022 season.
Remarkable Feats in Kicking
Slye's kick did not just secure points for the Patriots; it also positioned him among some of the most notable field goal achievements in modern NFL history. Brandon Aubrey set a 65-yard field goal record for the Dallas Cowboys earlier this season, while Justin Tucker holds the NFL record with a 66-yard field goal against the Detroit Lions in September 2021. Matt Prater’s 64-yard kick in 2013 holds the third-longest kick in the record books.
What makes Slye's feat even more impressive is its context. Both Tucker’s and Aubrey's long kicks were made indoors, conditions typically more favorable for kicking. Prater’s kick was in Denver, a city known for its high altitude and thin air, which can aid long-distance kicks. In contrast, Slye’s 63-yard field goal is the longest outdoor field goal made in the NFL since 2018, when Panthers kicker Graham Gano achieved the same distance to beat the Giants.
Historical Context
Four kicks in NFL history have been executed from 63 yards or longer outdoors but not in Denver, and Slye’s recent accomplishment adds his name to this exclusive list. Despite the brilliance of the kick, it was one of the few highlights for the Patriots in their matchup against the 49ers.
While the Patriots struggled throughout the game, Slye’s kick offered a testament to his exceptional skill and precision. It remains to be seen how the team will adjust in the coming weeks, but Slye’s moment of individual excellence stood out, even in a game where the team could not turn the tide in its favor.
Joey Slye’s remarkable field goal serves as a bright spot amid the Patriots' tough outing against the 49ers. His demonstration of skill under pressure provided fans a rare moment of cheer in an otherwise challenging game.