It was a challenging Sunday for the New England Patriots as they faced off against the San Francisco 49ers, grappling to find any form of consistency and momentum. The game, filled with struggles and missed opportunities, featured one glimmer of hope—a remarkable field goal by kicker Joey Slye.
In a matchup where the Patriots found it difficult to gain any traction, Slye delivered a rare moment of brilliance just before halftime. The decision to attempt a 63-yard field goal was audacious, considering the circumstances. Nevertheless, Slye's powerful kick not only navigated the uprights but also marked a significant milestone in NFL history.
The 63-yard field goal tied for the fourth-longest in NFL history, a testament to Slye's exceptional leg strength and precision. Since the start of the 2022 season, only one kicker has bettered this feat—Brandon Aubrey of the Dallas Cowboys, who set a 65-yard record earlier this season. Additionally, the overall NFL record is held by Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens, who nailed a 66-yard field goal against the Detroit Lions in September 2021.
Among the elite kickers, Matt Prater, now with the Arizona Cardinals, holds the third-longest kick at 64 yards, a feat accomplished during his tenure with the Denver Broncos in 2013. Notably, both Tucker's and Aubrey's record-setting kicks were made indoors. Prater's kick took place in Denver, a city renowned for its high altitude and thin air, factors that can assist in achieving longer distances.
Slye's kick is particularly distinguished as it stands as the longest outdoor field goal in the NFL since 2018, when Panthers kicker Graham Gano made an equally impressive 63-yard field goal to secure a win against the New York Giants. Furthermore, Slye's achievement was among the few field goals of 63 yards or longer executed outdoors but not in the altitude-aided environment of Denver.
Despite Slye's heroics, the Patriots couldn't turn their fortunes around in Week 4, culminating in a disheartening loss to the 49ers. The game underscored the team's ongoing struggles, with few highlights apart from Slye's remarkable feat.
The spotlight on Slye's kick offers a testament to his immense skill and precision, providing a rare moment of exceptionalism in an otherwise tough outing for the Patriots. As the team looks ahead to mend their strategies and improve their performance, Slye's standout moment will undoubtedly remain a highlight in an otherwise forgettable game.