It was a trying Sunday for the New England Patriots, who found themselves struggling against the San Francisco 49ers. In a game bereft of highlights for the Patriots, one solitary play shone brightly—a remarkable field goal by Joey Slye.
As the Patriots sought to gain some momentum just before halftime, they opted for a bold move by sending Slye to attempt a 63-yard field goal. Despite the pressure, Slye confidently drilled the 63-yarder, securing the Patriots' only points of the first half and providing a rare moment of brilliance for the team.
Remarkably, Slye's kick tied for the fourth-longest field goal in NFL history. It was also the second-longest field goal made by any kicker since the start of the 2022 season, second only to Brandon Aubrey’s 65-yard record-setting kick for the Dallas Cowboys earlier this season. On the all-time list, Justin Tucker holds the top spot with an incredible 66-yard field goal against the Detroit Lions in September 2021, while Matt Prater's 64-yard kick in 2013 ranks third.
Interestingly, the context of these long kicks is worth noting. Tucker’s and Aubrey's kicks were made indoors, whereas Prater's 64-yard field goal took place in Denver, a city renowned for its high altitude and thin air, conditions that favor longer kicks. Slye’s 63-yard masterpiece took place outdoors, making it the longest outdoor field goal in the NFL since 2018, when Panthers kicker Graham Gano matched the distance to beat the Giants.
Slye’s achievement is even more notable considering it was only the fourth time in NFL history that a field goal of 63 yards or longer was executed outdoors but not in Denver. This feat underscores Slye’s skill and precision as a kicker. Despite this heroic effort, the Patriots weren’t able to leverage the momentum generated by Slye’s extraordinary kick, ultimately finding themselves outmatched in Week 4.
While Slye's accomplishment did little to alter the outcome of the game, it certainly provided a testament to his talent. His field goal serves as a highlight in an otherwise forgettable performance by the Patriots. Looking ahead, it will be interesting to see how the team adjusts its strategies and performs in the coming weeks, hoping to turn their fortunes around.
In a season where every point counts, Slye's 63-yard kick is a reminder of the moments of excellence that can arise even in challenging circumstances. As the Patriots regroup and refocus, fans can hold onto the hope that more moments of brilliance await them, inspired by Slye's stunning display of accuracy and power.