Brandon Aubrey's Record-Setting Season with the Dallas Cowboys
In 2023, Brandon Aubrey carved his name into the annals of Dallas Cowboys' history, emerging as the franchise's first-team All-Pro kicker. His remarkable season has been punctuated with standout moments and extraordinary achievements, cementing his status as a vital player in the Cowboys' roster.
A significant highlight of Aubrey's season occurred in Week 3 during a matchup against the Baltimore Ravens at AT&T Stadium. Demonstrating impressive skill and composure, Aubrey successfully kicked a staggering 65-yard field goal. This remarkable feat not only set a new record for the longest field goal in Cowboys' history but also positioned itself as the second-longest in NFL history.
Week 15 brought an ambitious opportunity for the Cowboys' special teams, as Aubrey attempted a 70-yard field goal outdoors against the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte. The attempt, while wide to the left, showcased the Cowboys' confidence in their kicker's capabilities. The play had fans on the edge of their seats, until Deven Thompkins managed to run back the missed kick for 37 yards, adding a thrilling dimension to the game.
Cowboys' head coach, Mike McCarthy, expressed his admiration for Aubrey, stating, "He's so impressive with his consistency from that distance." However, weather conditions played a crucial role in the Week 15 attempt, prompting McCarthy to admit, "I wish we were indoors."
Special teams coordinator, John "Bones" Fassel, was also vocal in his belief in Aubrey's extended range. Reflecting on the 70-yard attempt, Fassel shared, "We said if we get anywhere in that neck of the woods, we're going to give it a big old whack." His confidence in Aubrey's abilities was evident, as he confidently stated, "Yeah, he's got 70 in him, for sure."
The Cowboys' special teams strategy came with its share of risks, as Fassel candidly noted, "The worst thing that could happen is they put a returner back there, and we have to cover." Indeed, the dynamics of such ambitious attempts require precise execution and awareness, with Fassel adding, "It’s going to come out low, and a block, you never know who ends up with the ball in their hands."
For Aubrey, the 70-yard try was uncharted territory—a battle against both distance and nature. Fassel described the attempt as a "Seventy-yarder into the wind, that was different, and that was going to take extra." Despite the outcome, the bold decision underscored the Cowboys' trust in their kicker's potential. Fassel concluded, "If we get in that position again, I'm sure we'll attempt it again, taking the conditions into factor."
Looking ahead, the Cowboys will play Weeks 16 and 18 games at their home ground of AT&T Stadium, with favorable indoor conditions that should suit Aubrey's talents. An away game against the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 17 will test the team's adaptability and strategy once more.
In a season where Brandon Aubrey has risen to prominence, his record-setting kicks and daring attempts highlight not only his individual talent but also the evolving strategies within the Cowboys' special teams. As the season unfolds, all eyes will be on Aubrey, ready to further etch his legacy in the Cowboys and NFL history.