It was a challenging Sunday for the New England Patriots as they faced the San Francisco 49ers. With the Patriots struggling to find their rhythm, there were few moments to celebrate. However, one play shone brightly amidst the otherwise dim performance.
Just before halftime, kicker Joey Slye stepped up to deliver what would be a standout moment in the game. Deciding to take an audacious gamble, the Patriots sent Slye out for a 63-yard field goal attempt. The stadium watched in anticipation and, with a powerful and precise kick, Slye drilled the ball through the uprights.
This remarkable field goal secured the Patriots' only points in the first half and provided a rare moment of brilliance. The kick didn’t just bring momentary relief to the Patriots’ fans; it achieved a significant milestone in NFL history. Slye’s 63-yard field goal tied for the fourth-longest kick in the history of the league and was notably the second-longest field goal made by any kicker since the start of the 2022 season.
To place Slye's feat in context, Brandon Aubrey set a 65-yard field goal record for the Dallas Cowboys earlier this current season, while Justin Tucker’s 66-yard kick against the Detroit Lions in September 2021 remains the NFL record. Matt Prater's 64-yard field goal in 2013 takes the third spot on the list. It’s also noteworthy to point out that both Tucker’s and Aubrey's record-setting kicks were made indoors, and Prater's took place in Denver, a city renowned for its high altitude and thin air, which are favorable conditions for long-distance kicks.
What makes Slye's achievement even more exceptional is that his 63-yard field goal is the longest outdoor field goal in the NFL since 2018. The last time a kick of this distance was made outdoors was by Panthers kicker Graham Gano, who achieved a 63-yard field goal to beat the Giants in 2018.
Slye’s kick was the fourth in NFL history from 63 yards or longer executed outdoors but not in the high-altitude conditions of Denver. This adds a layer of difficulty and distinction to his athletic prowess, showcasing his remarkable skill and precision as a kicker.
Despite this moment of exceptionalism, the Patriots couldn’t turn the tide in Week 4. The 49ers’ dominance on both sides of the ball left New England scrambling for answers, failing to gain momentum throughout the game. The loss underscores the pressing need for the Patriots to assess and adjust their strategies effectively in the coming weeks.
Joey Slye may not have been able to change the outcome of the game, but his 63-yard field goal remains a testament to his talent and a highlight that Patriots fans can cherish. As the season progresses, the Patriots will hope to find more consistent success, but for now, Slye’s remarkable kick stands as a reminder of the incredible moments that can unfold, even in the face of adversity.