It was a tough Sunday for the New England Patriots as they struggled against the San Francisco 49ers, with very few highlights to speak of. The Patriots, unable to find their rhythm, ended up succumbing to the 49ers in Week 4. However, amid the disarray, there was one moment that stood out like a beacon of hope—Joey Slye's remarkable field goal.
A Rare Moment of Brilliance
In a game where the Patriots found it hard to gain any momentum, Joey Slye provided a rare moment of brilliance just before halftime. The Patriots, desperately needing some spark, made the bold decision to send Slye out to attempt a 63-yard field goal. It was an audacious gamble, but Slye rose to the occasion.
With precision and power, Slye drilled the 63-yard field goal, securing the Patriots' only points of the first half. This kick was not only crucial for the team's morale but also a personal milestone for Slye. The kick tied for the fourth-longest field goal in NFL history, showcasing Slye's immense skill and precision under pressure.
Historic Feat
Slye's field goal was particularly significant as it was the second-longest field goal made by any kicker since the start of the 2022 season. This distinction places him in the company of elite kickers. Earlier this season, Brandon Aubrey set a 65-yard field goal record for the Dallas Cowboys, demonstrating that exceptional kicking talent is currently in the spotlight in the NFL.
To put Slye's achievement into perspective, the NFL record for the longest field goal is held by Justin Tucker, who made a 66-yard field goal against the Detroit Lions in September 2021. Matt Prater holds the third-longest kick at 64 yards, accomplished in 2013. Tucker's and Aubrey's long kicks were made indoors, while Prater's field goal took place in Denver, a city known for its high altitude and thin air, conditions that can aid the ball's travel distance.
What makes Slye's 63-yard field goal even more impressive is that it was the longest outdoor field goal in the NFL since 2018. The last kicker to achieve a similar feat was Graham Gano, who executed a 63-yard kick in 2018 to beat the Giants. Slye's field goal was the fourth in NFL history from 63 yards or longer executed outdoors but not in Denver, further emphasizing the difficulty and significance of his accomplishment.
More Than Just a Kick
Despite Slye’s heroics, the Patriots couldn’t turn around their fortunes in Week 4. However, this moment of exceptionalism offered a glimmer of what could be possible with the right adjustments and determination. It remains to be seen how the Patriots will adjust in the coming weeks, but Slye’s kick is a testament to his skill and precision, providing a small but significant morale boost for the team.
The Patriots had a tough outing against the 49ers, but Joey Slye gave the Patriots a moment of exceptionalism. As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the team and its standout performers navigate the challenges ahead.