In a standout season for the Dallas Cowboys, Brandon Aubrey has emerged as a formidable force, securing his position not only as the team's first-team All-Pro kicker in 2023 but also making waves with his exceptional performances. His impact on the field is best exemplified by two moments that will be etched in the annals of NFL history.
A Record-Breaking Wake-Up Call
During Week 3 of the current season, against the Baltimore Ravens at AT&T Stadium, Aubrey impressed fans and critics alike by kicking a staggering 65-yard field goal. This was not just a personal best for Aubrey but also set a new benchmark for the Cowboys, standing as the longest field goal in the team's storied history. The accomplishment also ranked Aubrey's kick as the second-longest in NFL history, a testament to his burgeoning reputation as a kicker willing to push boundaries.
Cowboys' head coach Mike McCarthy lauded Aubrey's unwavering consistency, remarking, "He's so impressive with his consistency from that distance." Such confidence from a seasoned coach like McCarthy speaks volumes about Aubrey's prowess and reliability under pressure.
Audacious Attempt in Charlotte
Fast forward to Week 15, and the Cowboys found themselves in a tense outdoor matchup against the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte. The conditions were less than ideal, but that didn't deter special teams coordinator John "Bones" Fassel from making a bold decision — attempting a 70-yard field goal.
"Yeah, he's got 70 in him, for sure," Fassel confidently stated, indicating his trust in Aubrey's capabilities. The kick, however, sailed wide to the left. Despite falling short, the attempt signified the team's willingness to take calculated risks, even when confronted with challenging conditions. Fassel reflected on the attempt, noting, "Seventy-yarder into the wind, that was different, and that was going to take extra."
When a kick ventures this far from the uprights, the potential for a dynamic return play presents itself. True to the unpredictable nature of football, Deven Thompkins seized the opportunity, running back the missed attempt for 37 yards. Fassel addressed the strategy behind such long-distance kicks, admitting, "The worst thing that could happen is they put a returner back there, and we have to cover."
Strategic Reflections and Future Prospects
Reflecting on the circumstances surrounding the 70-yard attempt, both Aubrey and the coaching staff took valuable lessons away. Fassel conceded that the kick's execution was not without its challenges, as seen when Thompkins ran the ball back. "You see on tape, he did a little skip step, and he just tried to drive it," Fassel explained, highlighting the intricacies of attempting to kick such a colossal distance.
Despite the unrealized potential of this extraordinary kick, Fassel remains optimistic and prepared. "If we get in that position again, I'm sure we'll attempt it again, taking the conditions into factor," he mentioned, showcasing a forward-thinking approach that underscores the Cowboys' strategic flexibility.
As the season progresses, anticipation mounts for the Cowboys' critical matchups in Weeks 16 and 18, both scheduled for the familiar turf of AT&T Stadium. Additionally, a challenging Week 17 away engagement awaits against the Philadelphia Eagles, a game where Aubrey’s ability to perform under pressure might once again be put to the test. With the stakes high and expectations soaring, Brandon Aubrey's talent and the Cowboys' unconventional tactics promise to keep fans at the edge of their seats.
The narrative this season isn't just about breaking records or attempting audacious plays; it's about evolving under the electric pace of the NFL and embracing a daring philosophy of pushing the boundaries. The Cowboys' journey with Brandon Aubrey leading their special teams encapsulates the excitement and unpredictability that makes football an enduring part of sports culture.