Preseason NFL games typically don't evoke the same fervor from fans as regular or postseason matchups. The stakes are lower, and often the drama that characterizes football at its best is missing. However, recent developments in preseason play have given enthusiasts something to talk about.
Remarkable Feat by Brandon Aubrey
During the Dallas Cowboys' 27-12 preseason victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, kicker Brandon Aubrey etched his name into the annals of NFL history. Aubrey smashed a whopping 66-yard field goal, a feat that not only secured praise but also set a new benchmark for extraordinary preseason performances.
Preseason stats may not count in the official NFL record book, but Aubrey's achievement has undoubtedly hit a chord among football aficionados. His 66-yarder ties the NFL's overall record set by Justin Tucker in 2021. Tucker's record-setting kick famously came in a high-pressure situation, sealing a 19-17 win for the Baltimore Ravens over the Detroit Lions. The stakes may have been different, but the remarkable distance remains the same, showcasing Aubrey's tremendous leg strength and precision.
Before Aubrey's remarkable kick, Ola Kimrin held the preseason record for the longest field goal, having nailed a 65-yarder in 2002 while with the Denver Broncos during training camp. Kimrin's accomplishment stood strong for over two decades, but his NFL career didn’t mirror the success of his record-breaking kick. He played only five regular-season games with Washington in 2004 and held a modest 60% success rate on field goals, including a miss from beyond 50 yards.
Redefining Long-Distance Kicking
Aubrey’s successful attempt has etched his name alongside the elite few who have achieved such feats. As of now, only Tucker and Aubrey have managed to surpass Kimrin's 65-yard mark considering both preseason and regular-season games. The NFL had seen only 29 successful field goals from 60 yards or more in regular-season play between 2003 and 2023, underlining the rarity and significance of such long-distance kicks.
The NFL's Next Gen Stats indicated that Aubrey’s 66-yarder would have been good from 72 yards. "Aubrey himself has confidently noted that he has successfully kicked from as far back as 70 yards in practice." Such confidence and capability have not gone unnoticed. This suggests that the Dallas Cowboys may have discovered a kicker who can deliver game-changing performances when it matters most.
A Bright Prospect for the Cowboys
As the preseason winds down and the regular season looms, the Cowboys' coaching staff and fans alike have reasons to be optimistic. Aubrey’s display of extraordinary skill implies that he could play a crucial role in pivotal moments during the regular season. As the season progresses, all eyes will surely be on Brandon Aubrey to see if he can replicate his preseason heroics when the stakes are undeniably higher.
In conclusion, preseason games might often lack the high-octane excitement of regular-season clashes, but they are an invaluable opportunity to spot emerging talent and unearth new records. Aubrey’s 66-yard field goal is a testament to this, adding a remarkable chapter to preseason annals and setting a new standard that future kickers will aspire to reach.