Brandon Aubrey: Kicking His Way into Cowboys History
In a season full of remarkable kicks and bold undertakings, Brandon Aubrey has emerged as a significant figure in the Dallas Cowboys' lineup, earning a spot as their first-team All-Pro kicker in 2023. Aubrey has not only demonstrated exemplary skill but has also etched his name into the history books with memorable performances throughout the season.
An Unforgettable Field Goal
In Week 3, against the formidable Baltimore Ravens, Aubrey captured national attention with a 65-yard field goal at AT&T Stadium, setting a new record for the Cowboys. This incredible feat wasn't just a personal best for Aubrey but also marked the second-longest field goal in NFL history. Whether it was the pressure of the moment or the drive to succeed, Aubrey's powerful leg became a testament to his prowess on the field.
Aiming for Greater Heights
As the season progressed, Aubrey faced new challenges and opportunities to push the boundaries of what is possible. "He's so impressive with his consistency from that distance," lauded Cowboys' head coach Mike McCarthy, acknowledging Aubrey's ability to deliver under pressure.
Week 15 presented Aubrey with a career-defining moment and a chance to attempt a staggering 70-yard field goal against the Carolina Panthers. Kicking outdoors in Charlotte, Aubrey took his aim, putting his powerful leg to the test. Despite the kick veering wide to the left, it was a bold attempt that captured the audacity and spirit of the game.
"We said if we get anywhere in that neck of the woods, we're going to give it a big old whack," commented John "Bones" Fassel, Cowboys' special teams coordinator. His words emphasized the team's confidence in Aubrey's capabilities, even when faced with daunting conditions.
The Thrill and the Risk
The 70-yard attempt, while ambitious, also posed risks. "The worst thing that could happen is they put a returner back there, and we have to cover," Fassel remarked, referencing the potential consequences of such an extended kick. When Deven Thompkins ran back the missed attempt for 37 yards, it underscored the gamble involved in pursuing such lengths.
Fassel further elaborated on the intricacies of executing a kick of that magnitude: "Seventy-yarder into the wind, that was different, and that was going to take extra." His insights highlight the technical and strategic challenges the special teams faced that day.
The Path Forward
Looking ahead, the Cowboys have Weeks 16 and 18 scheduled at the familiar confines of AT&T Stadium, with an away game against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 17. These matchups present ongoing opportunities for Aubrey to showcase his skills and potentially rewrite records.
"If we get in that position again, I'm sure we'll attempt it again, taking the conditions into factor," Fassel stated, suggesting a continued willingness to take calculated risks with Aubrey's impressive leg. His words echo the sentiments of a team ready to explore every avenue for success in pursuit of victory.
Brandon Aubrey's journey with the Cowboys underscores a unique blend of skill, ambition, and a never-say-die approach. As the season progresses, fans and team members alike will be watching closely, eager to see where Aubrey’s talents will take him—and the team—next.