Brandon Aubrey: A New Star Rises in Dallas
In the exhilarating world of the NFL, the talent of a kicker is often overshadowed by the flashier, more prominent roles on the field. However, in 2023, Brandon Aubrey has emerged from the shadows to become the Dallas Cowboys' first-team All-Pro kicker, cementing his reputation with performances that are impossible to ignore.
This season, Aubrey captured national attention with a remarkable feat — a 65-yard field goal during Week 3 against the Baltimore Ravens at AT&T Stadium. This incredible kick not only became the longest in Cowboys history but also marked the second-longest in NFL history, a testament to his exceptional talent and dedication.
But Aubrey's boldness doesn't end there. In Week 15, under the pressure of an outdoor game against the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte, he attempted a jaw-dropping 70-yard field goal. Though the kick veered wide to the left, the audacity of his attempt showcased his extraordinary capabilities and fearless approach.
"He's so impressive with his consistency from that distance," commented Cowboys' head coach Mike McCarthy, underscoring the team's confidence in Aubrey's ability to deliver under pressure. For McCarthy and the Cowboys, Aubrey's resilience and skill are invaluable assets as they continue to fight their way through the season.
Strategic Decisions from the Sidelines
The decision to trust Aubrey with such a monumental kick was not taken lightly. John "Bones" Fassel, the Cowboys' special teams coordinator, had full faith in his kicker's potential. "Yeah, he's got 70 in him, for sure," Fassel remarked, confident in Aubrey's powerful leg. Despite the miss, Fassel's strategy underscores the team's willingness to push the boundaries of what's possible on the field.
Fassel reflected on the conditions that day, noting, "Seventy-yarder into the wind, that was different, and that was going to take extra." The commander of the special teams also expressed a desire for ideal conditions, echoed by McCarthy's sentiment, "I wish we were indoors." The reality of outdoor conditions in the NFL can be challenging, yet the Cowboys' strategic minds are prepared to navigate these hurdles with determination and savvy planning.
Not only do these situations present a test of physical endurance and skill, but they also demand considerable strategic foresight. "It’s going to come out low, and a block, you never know who ends up with the ball in their hands," Fassel explained, acknowledging the complex layers of risk involved in such attempts. In fact, when Thompkins managed a 37-yard return on the missed kick, it highlighted the potential peril of these high-stakes decisions.
Looking to the Future
As the Cowboys move forward, their schedule presents both challenges and opportunities. With upcoming games in Weeks 16 and 18 at AT&T Stadium and a critical Week 17 away game against the Philadelphia Eagles, Aubrey's contribution will be more crucial than ever. Fassel stated, "If we get in that position again, I'm sure we'll attempt it again, taking the conditions into factor," highlighting the team's readiness to leverage Aubrey's strengths when the moment calls for it.
In the grand theater of the NFL, where every play can become a defining moment, Brandon Aubrey's story is one of resilience and ambition. His accomplishments this season are a reminder that sometimes the game is won by those willing to venture into uncharted territory. As long as Aubrey dons the Cowboys' colors, his journey will undoubtedly be filled with monumental kicks and record-breaking moments that continue to captivate the hearts of football fans everywhere.