It was a tough Sunday for the New England Patriots as they struggled against the San Francisco 49ers, with very few highlights to speak of. In a game where the Patriots found it hard to gain any momentum, one play stood out—a remarkable field goal by Joey Slye provided a rare moment of brilliance just before halftime.
The Patriots decided to take an audacious gamble by sending Slye out to attempt a 63-yard field goal. With the pressure on, Slye drilled the 63-yard field goal and secured the Patriots' only points of the first half. This incredible feat tied for the fourth-longest field goal in NFL history and was the second-longest field goal made by any kicker since the start of the 2022 season.
Brandon Aubrey had set a 65-yard field goal record for the Dallas Cowboys earlier this season, and Justin Tucker holds the overall NFL record with a 66-yard field goal against the Detroit Lions in September 2021. Matt Prater's 64-yard kick from 2013 places him in the third spot. Notably, Tucker’s and Aubrey's long kicks were made indoors, while Prater's field goal took place in Denver—a city known for its high altitude and thin air.
Slye’s 63-yard field goal was the longest outdoor field goal in the NFL since 2018 when Panthers kicker Graham Gano achieved the same distance to beat the Giants. Impressively, Slye’s kick was the fourth in NFL history from 63 yards or longer executed outdoors but not in Denver.
The significance of this kick cannot be understated. Not only did it highlight Slye’s exceptional skill and precision, but it also provided a glimpse of hope and a rare moment of excitement for Patriots fans during an otherwise challenging game. Despite Slye’s heroics, the Patriots couldn’t turn around their fortunes in Week 4. But his performance offers a testament to his capability and dedication.
As the Patriots move forward, it remains to be seen how they will adjust in the coming weeks. However, if there’s one takeaway from their match against the 49ers, it's that Joey Slye has the talent to be a game-changer, even in the most trying circumstances.
In focusing on individual brilliance against collective adversity, Slye's kick stands as a shining beacon of possibility—proving that even when a team is down, moments of greatness can still emerge.