It was a challenging Sunday for the New England Patriots as they faced off against the San Francisco 49ers, with few moments of success to illuminate their performance. Yet, in the midst of an otherwise arduous game, one play rose above the rest—a remarkable field goal by Joey Slye.
Amid a game where the Patriots struggled to gain any momentum, Slye provided a rare spark of brilliance just before halftime. The decision to send Slye onto the field for an audacious 63-yard field goal attempt was a bold move, but it paid off magnificently. Slye drilled the kick, securing the Patriots' only points of the first half, and tying for the fourth-longest field goal in NFL history.
This tremendous feat did not just place Slye in the NFL record books but also marked the second-longest field goal made by any kicker since the start of the 2022 season. Earlier this season, Brandon Aubrey of the Dallas Cowboys had set a 65-yard field goal record, marking a new benchmark for kickers to aspire to.
The current NFL record for the longest field goal belongs to Justin Tucker, who executed a spectacular 66-yard field goal against the Detroit Lions in September 2021. Matt Prater holds the third-longest record with a 64-yard kick in 2013 that took place in Denver, a city well-known for its high altitude and thin air, favorable conditions for long-distance kicking.
What sets Slye’s 63-yard field goal apart is the context in which it was delivered. Unlike Tucker and Aubrey’s records, achieved indoors, Slye’s kick was performed outdoors, facing the natural elements. This was the longest outdoor field goal in the NFL since 2018, when Panthers kicker Graham Gano also executed a 63-yard kick to beat the Giants. Notably, Slye’s field goal was the fourth in NFL history from 63 yards or longer executed outdoors and not in Denver.
Despite the heroics provided by Slye, the Patriots couldn't turn their fortunes around in Week 4. The game against the 49ers showcased the struggles the team faced, with few highlights to speak of beyond Slye’s exceptional kick. As the Patriots look forward to the coming weeks, Slye’s kick stands as a testament to his skill and precision, offering a glimmer of hope amidst an otherwise tough outing.
In sum, Sunday’s game against the 49ers was challenging for the New England Patriots. Yet, Joey Slye’s 63-yard field goal emerged as a singular moment of brilliance, solidifying his place in the annals of NFL history. The team may have faced significant hurdles, but Slye’s unforgettable kick provides a shining example of perseverance and excellence under pressure.