Aubrey's Historic Leg: A Glance at the Cowboys' New Kicking Ace
In the world of professional football, where the spotlight often shines brightest on quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers, the role of the kicker is sometimes overshadowed. Yet, in 2023, the Dallas Cowboys found themselves with a gem in Brandon Aubrey, who clinched the title of the team's first-team All-Pro kicker.
The Record-breaking Kick
Aubrey's journey into the Cowboys' history books came via his extraordinary field goal prowess. During Week 3, against the formidable Baltimore Ravens at the iconic AT&T Stadium, Aubrey launched a 65-yard field goal that not only became the longest in the Cowboys' history but also the second-longest in NFL history. Cowboys’ head coach Mike McCarthy remarked, "He's so impressive with his consistency from that distance."
This astonishing feat established Aubrey as a kicker to watch and highlighted the increasing strategic importance of special teams in the NFL. John "Bones" Fassel, the Cowboys' special teams coordinator, explained the audacious strategy: "We said if we get anywhere in that neck of the woods, we're going to give it a big old whack."
The 70-yard Pursuit
As the season progressed, another opportunity for a record-breaking moment unfolded in Week 15. The Cowboys faced the Carolina Panthers in an outdoor setting in Charlotte. Aubrey was given the chance to attempt an unprecedented 70-yard field goal, a venture not without its risks. "If we get in that position again, I'm sure we'll attempt it again, taking the conditions into factor," Fassel stated.
Unfortunately, despite the anticipation, Aubrey's kick veered wide to the left. Fassel candidly noted the challenges: "Seventy-yarder into the wind, that was different, and that was going to take extra." As the ball missed its mark, Deven Thompkins seized the opportunity and returned the ball 37 yards, demonstrating the inherent risks associated with such long-distance attempts. Fassel added, "The worst thing that could happen is they put a returner back there, and we have to cover."
Evaluating Long-Range Strategy
The strategic deliberations behind Aubrey's long-distance attempts reflect a broader trend in the NFL. Kickers like Aubrey are testing the limits of what's physically and strategically possible. Fassel continued to express confidence in Aubrey’s capabilities: "Yeah, he's got 70 in him, for sure." The team’s willingness to attempt these ambitious kicks underscores a growing emphasis on maximizing scoring opportunities, even from seemingly improbable distances. "You see on tape, he did a little skip step, and he just tried to drive it," Fassel noted.
Adding to the complexity of these attempts are the unpredictable outdoor conditions. McCarthy openly expressed a common sentiment among coaches dealing with adverse weather: "I wish we were indoors." The environmental factors create a challenging arena for kickers, demanding not only physical prowess but also mental resilience. Fassel appreciated the intricacies, stating, "It’s going to come out low, and a block, you never know who ends up with the ball in their hands."
The Road Ahead
For the Cowboys, the closing weeks of the 2023 season offer both opportunities and challenges. Week 16 and 18 will see the team returning to the familiar turf of AT&T Stadium, where conditions are more predictable and stakes are high. Between these home games lies a crucial Week 17 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, a test that will stretch not only the team's endurance but also their on-field strategizing.
As the Cowboys continue their campaign, Brandon Aubrey remains a pivotal figure. His performances have not only solidified his reputation but also reignited discussions about the potential and pressure-packed role of kickers in the NFL. The anticipation of his next big kick hangs in the air, capturing the imaginations of fans and experts alike, while leaving a lingering question: could the Cowboys' ace kicker be on the brink of yet another historic moment?