Brandon Aubrey: Kicking Up a Storm in Dallas
Brandon Aubrey's name has quickly become synonymous with distance and precision for fans of the Dallas Cowboys. The 2023 season has been a remarkable chapter in the Cowboys' storied history, thanks in large part to Aubrey's unprecedented exploits. As the Cowboys' first-team All-Pro kicker, his leg has not only secured victories but has also shattered records, ensuring his place in the annals of the franchise.
The kicker's prowess was on full display in Week 3 when he launched a career-defining 65-yard field goal against the Baltimore Ravens at AT&T Stadium. This kick set a new benchmark as the longest in Cowboys history, placing Aubrey just behind the NFL's all-time longest. Such performances have made him an invaluable asset for the Cowboys as they navigate a demanding NFL season.
Cowboys' head coach Mike McCarthy has often extolled Aubrey's virtues, acknowledging his consistent performance from long distances. "He's so impressive with his consistency from that distance," McCarthy noted, underscoring the kicker's unparalleled reliability.
Testing the Limits
As the Cowboys approached their Week 15 matchup against the Carolina Panthers, the conditions were decidedly different. Playing outdoors in Charlotte, Aubrey eyed an audacious 70-yard field goal attempt. Despite the daunting challenge, special teams coordinator John "Bones" Fassel firmly believed in his kicker's capabilities. "Yeah, he's got 70 in him, for sure," Fassel confidently stated before the attempt.
However, the kick did not find its mark, missing wide to the left. It was a reminder of the inherent risks associated with going for such ambitious plays. "The worst thing that could happen is they put a returner back there, and we have to cover," Fassel observed, reflecting on the contingencies in place. Indeed, Deven Thompkins seized the opportunity, returning the missed attempt 37 yards downfield.
Fassel dissected the attempt, acknowledging the difficulties: "Seventy-yarder into the wind, that was different, and that was going to take extra." Yet, despite the miss, neither the coaching staff nor their kicker showed signs of deterrence. "If we get in that position again, I'm sure we'll attempt it again, taking the conditions into factor," Fassel affirmed, hinting at future adventurous endeavors.
Home Stretch for the Cowboys
With Weeks 16 and 18 on the horizon, both games set to be played at the Cowboys' fortress, AT&T Stadium, the team embraces the advantage of playing indoors. It's a setting where Aubrey's talents shine unhindered by external variables. "I wish we were indoors," McCarthy had wistfully remarked following the outdoor setback in Carolina.
Aubrey's reliability isn't just about distance; it's his manner of approaching each kick with unwavering focus and technique. Fassel described the kicker's approach, saying, "You see on tape, he did a little skip step, and he just tried to drive it," illustrating Aubrey's meticulous preparation and execution.
Looking Forward
The Cowboys’ Week 17 trip to Philadelphia promises to be a pivotal contest as they aim to solidify their playoff positioning. Philadelphia's notorious outdoor conditions will undoubtedly test them again. While the Cowboys prepare for this critical matchup, Aubrey's mindset remains crucial to their success. His legs have carried them this far, and in a season defined by the unexpected, every kick could shape the Cowboys' destiny.
For a franchise built on legends and grand tales, Brandon Aubrey's foot has spun a yarn of its own. As Dallas fans watch with bated breath, they do so in the comforting knowledge that whatever happens, their All-Pro kicker is always ready to give it a "big old whack" when it matters the most.