Preseason NFL games often fly under the radar, with fans usually craving the high-stakes drama of the regular season. However, during the Dallas Cowboys' recent 27-12 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, one moment shone brightly through the otherwise low-pressure environment: Brandon Aubrey's remarkable 66-yard field goal.
This kick wasn't just a fleeting moment of brilliance; it resonated within the annals of NFL history by tying the overall league record set by Justin Tucker in 2021. Tucker's legendary kick occurred during a nail-biting, high-pressure situation, clinching a 19-17 win for the Baltimore Ravens over the Detroit Lions. While Aubrey's kick came in the less influential setting of a preseason game, its importance and the skill required remain undeniable.
Setting a New Preseason Benchmark
Aubrey’s extraordinary achievement has set a new standard for preseason performances. His 66-yarder surpassed the previous preseason record of 65 yards, set by Ola Kimrin in 2002. Kimrin made his mark during the Denver Broncos’ training camp but ultimately played just five regular-season games in the NFL with Washington in 2004, achieving a 60% success rate on field goals and missing attempts from beyond 50 yards. Before Aubrey's impressive feat, Kimrin's record had been the benchmark for over two decades.
The contrast between these moments offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of kicking in the NFL. When Kimrin set his record, only four field goals in NFL history had exceeded the 60-yard mark. Fast forward to 2023, and the league has seen a total of 29 successful field goals from 60 yards or more in regular-season play between 2003 and 2023. This increase reflects both improved techniques and equipment, as well as a greater emphasis on special teams.
Aubrey’s Kicking Prowess
Aubrey's capability extends beyond this single performance. During practice, he has successfully kicked from as far back as 70 yards. "Aubrey himself has confidently noted that he has successfully kicked from as far back as 70 yards in practice," reflecting his remarkable consistency and power. Furthermore, NFL's Next Gen Stats indicated that his 66-yarder would have been accurate from 72 yards, emphasizing his potential to impact games significantly.
As the regular season looms, the Dallas Cowboys might have unearthed a kicker with the potential to deliver game-changing moments. While preseason statistics may not appear in the official NFL record books, such performances can harbor significant psychological and strategic advantages for teams looking to build momentum heading into the regular season.
The Road Ahead
Although preseason games often lack the intensity of regular-season matchups, they can sometimes provide a stage for unheralded talents to emerge. Aubrey's spectacular kick serves as a testament to this potential. With the regular season just around the corner, the Dallas Cowboys could very well have found in Aubrey a reliable and exceptional kicker capable of handling high-pressure situations akin to those faced by legendary names like Justin Tucker.
In a sport where one kick can determine the outcome of a game, Brandon Aubrey's 66-yard field goal serves as more than just a preseason highlight—it stands as a beacon of his potential and a promise of the extraordinary performances that may lie ahead.