It was a challenging Sunday for the New England Patriots as they faced off against the San Francisco 49ers, experiencing a game fraught with difficulties and lacking in notable highlights.
A Spark Amidst the Struggles
Amid the Patriots' struggles, one play managed to stand out—a remarkable field goal by Joey Slye. In a matchup where the Patriots fought hard but seemed unable to build any meaningful momentum, Slye offered a glimmer of hope just before halftime.
As the seconds ticked down in the first half, the Patriots opted for a bold move, sending Slye onto the field to attempt a daunting 63-yard field goal. Without hesitation, Slye launched the football through the uprights, securing the Patriots' only points of the first half.
This impressive feat tied for the fourth-longest field goal in NFL history, underscoring Slye's exceptional skill. In fact, Slye’s kick was the second-longest field goal made by any kicker since the beginning of the 2022 season, solidifying his place among the elite.
Context in the Record Books
Slye's accomplishment brings the number of extraordinary long-distance kicks into focus. Earlier this season, Brandon Aubrey set a 65-yard field goal record for the Dallas Cowboys, while Justin Tucker holds the NFL's all-time record with a 66-yard field goal against the Detroit Lions in September 2021. Additionally, Matt Prater earned a spot with a 64-yard kick achieved in 2013.
It is worth noting that Tucker’s and Aubrey's long-range kicks were made indoors, providing a controlled environment that arguably aids such record-setting attempts. In contrast, Prater's field goal was executed in Denver—a city famed for its high altitude and thin air, conditions that also favor longer kicks.
What makes Slye’s 63-yard field goal even more impressive is that it was the longest outdoor field goal in the NFL since 2018. The last kicker to match this outdoor achievement was Panthers’ Graham Gano, who completed a 63-yard kick in 2018 to secure a victory over the Giants.
Slye’s successful attempt represents only the fourth instance in NFL history of a field goal from 63 yards or more being executed outdoors and not in Denver, adding further distinction to his accomplishment.
Looking Forward
Despite Slye’s moment of brilliance, the Patriots continued to face considerable challenges throughout Week 4. Their inability to convert this fleeting success into a sustained offensive effort left them languishing as the game unfolded.
While the Patriots’ overall performance left much to be desired, Slye’s kick remains a testament to his skill and precision. For a fleeting moment, he gave the Patriots a taste of exceptionalism that serves as a reminder of the unpredictable and thrilling nature of football.
The Patriots concluded the game on a difficult note against the 49ers, and it remains to be seen how they will adjust and respond in the coming weeks. Joey Slye’s heroics may not have changed the outcome, but his remarkable field goal offered fans a moment of genuine excitement amidst a challenging game.