Preseason NFL games may not always captivate the audience with high-stakes drama, but they still offer moments of brilliance that cannot be overlooked. One such moment came during the Dallas Cowboys' 27-12 win over the Las Vegas Raiders, where kicker Brandon Aubrey stole the spotlight with an extraordinary 66-yard field goal. This astounding feat not only secured his team a decisive victory but also set a new standard for jaw-dropping preseason performances.
Although preseason statistics do not hold a place in the NFL's official record book, Aubrey’s achievement goes beyond mere numbers. His 66-yard blast ties the overall NFL record set by Justin Tucker during a pivotal moment in the 2021 regular season. Tucker’s kick was noteworthy for sealing a 19-17 win for the Baltimore Ravens over the Detroit Lions, a testament to his clutch performance under high pressure.
A New Benchmark
Before Aubrey's impressive kick, the record for the longest field goal in preseason was held by Ola Kimrin. In 2002, Kimrin nailed a 65-yarder while part of the Denver Broncos' training camp, setting a benchmark that stood for over two decades. Despite this remarkable achievement, Kimrin’s NFL career was relatively brief; he played in only five career regular-season games with Washington in 2004, finishing with a 60% success rate on field goals, which included a miss from beyond 50 yards.
Between 2003 and 2023, the league witnessed a total of 29 successful field goals from 60 yards or more during regular-season play, showcasing the evolving capabilities of kickers in the modern game. However, only Tucker and Aubrey have managed to top Kimrin's 65-yard preseason record, elevating themselves into an elite category of kickers who can perform extraordinary feats, irrespective of the game's context.
The Making of a Reliable Kicker
With Aubrey's record-breaking kick, the Dallas Cowboys appear to have found a reliable kicker who can produce game-changing moments. Aubrey, who has confidently stated, "Aubrey himself has confidently noted that he has successfully kicked from as far back as 70 yards in practice," is undoubtedly one to watch as the regular season approaches. His 66-yarder was validated by the NFL's Next Gen Stats, which indicated that the kick would have been good from 72 yards. This level of skill and precision in practice underscores Aubrey’s potential to be a key player for the Cowboys when it counts the most.
What Lies Ahead
As the preseason winds down and teams finalize their rosters for the regular season, Aubrey's performance serves as a reminder of how crucial special teams can be. Despite these games often flying under the radar, contributions from players like Aubrey can significantly influence roster decisions and set the tone for the upcoming season. The Cowboys, known for their high expectations and relentless pursuit of excellence, may have just identified a kicker capable of performing under the intense scrutiny and pressure synonymous with the NFL.
In a sport where split-second decisions and precise movements can make or break a game, the significance of having a kicker with Aubrey’s range and reliability cannot be overstated. As the regular season looms, all eyes will undoubtedly be on Brandon Aubrey to see if he can translate his preseason heroics into regular-season success.
In conclusion, while preseason games might not always capture the high-stakes excitement that fans crave, they still provide a platform for emerging talents to shine and set new benchmarks. Brandon Aubrey’s 66-yard field goal is a testament to the remarkable feats that can unfold when preparation meets opportunity. The Dallas Cowboys seem poised to benefit immensely from Aubrey's capabilities, making him a player to watch as the regular season unfolds.