Brandon Aubrey: Dallas' New Long-Distance Threat
The Dallas Cowboys have found a crucial weapon in Brandon Aubrey, whose performance this season has been nothing short of spectacular. Aubrey nailed a 60-yard field goal late in the third quarter, extending Dallas' lead to 17-12. This kick not only gave Dallas an added cushion but also brought his success rate to a perfect 11-for-11 for the 2024 season.
Field goals are often seen as mundane aspects of the game, but Aubrey's kicks have been anything but ordinary. His 60-yard success marks only a part of his incredible journey this season. Earlier, he set an NFL record with a spotless 16-for-16 mark on field goals from 50 yards or beyond, showcasing his long-distance prowess.
However, not all kicks went smoothly for Aubrey in the game. He missed a 51-yard attempt later, a rare blemish in an otherwise sterling record. Despite this, his overall impact remains undeniable. Just a week prior, Aubrey had made headlines by hitting a 65-yard field goal against the Baltimore Ravens. That remarkable kick was not only the longest in Cowboys' history but also the second-longest in NFL history.
The Importance of Consistency
Aubrey's consistency has been a critical asset for Dallas this season. Week after week, he has delivered when called upon, providing the Cowboys with a reliable option in high-pressure situations. His ability to make game-changing field goals from long distances offers Dallas a strategic advantage many teams can only dream of.
The significance of Aubrey's performance is not lost on the Cowboys' coaching staff and players. His reliability from long range allows the offensive unit to approach game-planning differently, confident in the knowledge that they can capitalize on scoring opportunities even if they stall outside the red zone.
Breaking Records and Making History
What sets Aubrey apart is not just his consistency but his historical significance. His 65-yard field goal against the Ravens demonstrated his exceptional leg strength and precision, traits that are exceedingly rare at any level of football. That kick will be remembered for years to come, not just by Cowboys fans but by anyone who appreciates the fine nuances of professional football.
Aubrey's achievements have placed him in elite company, and his continued success could set new standards for what is expected from NFL kickers. While many kickers strive for reliability within the standard 30-50 yard range, Aubrey is redefining the limits of what’s possible, pushing those boundaries further out than ever before.
The Road Ahead
Aubrey's missed 51-yard field goal serves as a subtle reminder that even the best have off days. However, considering his current form, this miss appears more an exception than the rule. With the season progressing, the Cowboys will undoubtedly lean heavily on Aubrey's abilities, trusting his leg to provide crucial points in tightly contested games.
Should Aubrey maintain his performance, he not only has the potential to break more records but to also become a key figure in Dallas' quest for postseason success. The pressure will mount as the stakes get higher, but if his track record this season is any indication, Aubrey is more than up to the challenge.
In a sport often dominated by quarterbacks, wide receivers, and running backs, it's refreshing to see a kicker receive the recognition he so rightly deserves. Brandon Aubrey is making history, and in doing so, he's giving Cowboys fans every reason to believe that his kicks could be the ones that define their season.