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. In a game where the Patriots found it hard to gain any momentum, one play stood out—a remarkable field goal by Joey Slye.
As the first half was drawing to a close, the Patriots decided to take an audacious gamble. They sent Slye out to attempt a 63-yard field goal, a decision that was as bold as it was unexpected. When Slye drilled the field goal, it secured the Patriots' only points of the first half, providing a rare moment of brilliance in an otherwise challenging game.
The kick by Slye tied for the fourth-longest field goal in NFL history. This achievement was not just a personal milestone for Slye but also a noteworthy highlight in the NFL's storied annals of incredible kicking efforts. Slye's kick was the second-longest field goal made by any kicker since the start of the 2022 season, a testament to his skill and precision.
In a league where kicking distances continue to push the boundaries of what's possible, Brandon Aubrey set a 65-yard field goal record for the Dallas Cowboys earlier this season. Meanwhile, Justin Tucker holds the NFL record with 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. Interestingly, both 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, offering some assistance to kickers aiming for long distances.
Slye’s 63-yard field goal was the longest outdoor field goal in the NFL since 2018, underscoring the difficulty of achieving such a feat in diverse weather conditions. The last time an outdoor kick of this distance was made occurred when Panthers kicker Graham Gano achieved 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. This detail highlights the unique challenge presented by outdoor conditions, making Slye’s accomplishment even more significant.
Despite Slye’s heroics, the Patriots couldn’t turn around their fortunes in Week 4. The rest of the game was dictated by the 49ers' dominant play, leaving the Patriots with little to celebrate other than Slye's exceptional kick.
It remains to be seen how the Patriots will adjust in the coming weeks. Nevertheless, Joey Slye’s kick offers a testament to his skill, precision, and the lengths to which a standout individual performance can shine, even on an otherwise dim day for the team. As the season progresses, Slye’s extraordinary field goal will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight not just for the Patriots, but for the entire NFL.