It was a challenging Sunday for the New England Patriots as they faced off against the San Francisco 49ers, marked by a lack of significant highlights. Yet, amidst the struggle, one moment of brilliance stood out—Joey Slye's exceptional field goal.
In a game where the Patriots found it difficult to gain any traction, Joey Slye delivered a fleeting but memorable highlight just before halftime. The Patriots, in a daring move, decided to send Slye out to attempt a 63-yard field goal. Against considerable odds, Slye drilled the 63-yard kick, securing the Patriots' only points of the first half.
This extraordinary feat by Slye tied for the fourth-longest field goal in NFL history, marking a significant moment not only for the game but for the kicker's career. The kick also stands as the second-longest field goal made by any kicker since the start of the 2022 season. Only Brandon Aubrey's 65-yard record for the Dallas Cowboys, set earlier this season, surpasses it.
To put Slye's achievement into perspective, Justin Tucker holds the NFL record with a 66-yard field goal against the Detroit Lions in September 2021. Matt Prater’s 64-yard kick, accomplished in 2013, ranks just below Tucker’s. It's worth noting that both Tucker's and Aubrey's record-setting field goals were made indoors. Meanwhile, Prater’s kick took place in Denver, a city known for its high altitude, which naturally enhances kicking distances due to the thinner air.
Slye’s 63-yard field goal was the longest outdoor field goal in the NFL since 2018, when Panthers kicker Graham Gano executed a 63-yard kick to beat the Giants. Additionally, it was the fourth field goal in NFL history from 63 yards or longer executed outdoors but not in Denver—an impressive statistic that underscores the difficulty of Slye’s accomplishment.
Despite Joey Slye’s moment of exceptionalism, the Patriots couldn't change their overall fortunes in Week 4. The team struggled to gain any momentum against the 49ers, making Slye's heroics a lone bright spot in an otherwise tough outing.
As the Patriots regroup and prepare for the upcoming weeks, Slye’s kick serves as a testament to his skill and precision. His ability to perform under pressure offers a glimmer of hope and a point of pride for a team in need of both.
The Patriots will undoubtedly look to draw inspiration from Slye's performance as they navigate the challenges ahead. For now, his remarkable 63-yard field goal remains a standout moment from a challenging game, illustrating that even in the face of adversity, moments of brilliance can arise.