Brandon Aubrey etched his name into the annals of Dallas Cowboys history during the 2023 NFL season, earning the distinction of being named the team’s first-team All-Pro kicker. Aubrey's performance this season has been nothing short of extraordinary, culminating in milestone kicks that have dazzled both fans and critics alike.
A Record-Breaking Performance
The pinnacle of Aubrey’s achievements came in Week 3 at AT&T Stadium, when he successfully kicked a 65-yard field goal against the Baltimore Ravens. This extraordinary feat not only set a new record in Cowboys history but also positioned Aubrey’s kick as the second-longest in NFL history. The potency of his performance has drawn immense praise from all corners, including from Cowboys' head coach, Mike McCarthy, who remarked, "He's so impressive with his consistency from that distance."
The 70-Yard Ambition
As the season progressed, Aubrey’s ambition remained undeterred. In Week 15, the Cowboys faced the Carolina Panthers in Charlotte, where Aubrey attempted a remarkable 70-yard field goal outdoors. Although the attempt resulted in a miss, wide to the left, the boldness of the move underscored the kicker's potential. The Panthers’ Deven Thompkins capitalized on the miss, running back the attempt for 37 yards. Despite the miss, Cowboys' special teams coordinator, John "Bones" Fassel, expressed unwavering confidence in Aubrey’s capabilities, stating, "Yeah, he's got 70 in him, for sure."
Fassel’s commentary further illuminated the complexity and challenges of such a monumental attempt. "Seventy-yarder into the wind, that was different, and that was going to take extra. It’s going to come out low, and a block, you never know who ends up with the ball in their hands," Fassel explained, highlighting the difficulty of executing such a long kick in challenging conditions.
Strategic Insights and Tactical Calculations
The attempt in Charlotte was more than just a display of talent; it was also a strategic decision made by the coaching staff, underlining the Cowboys' aggressive approach to the game. Fassel candidly discussed the thought process behind such decisions, stating, "The worst thing that could happen is they put a returner back there, and we have to cover." His reflections offer a window into the tactical calculations made on the sidelines, where risk is meticulously weighed against potential reward.
Looking back on the audacious attempt, Fassel echoed a sentiment of readiness for future challenges. "If we get in that position again, I'm sure we'll attempt it again, taking the conditions into factor," he stated, signaling the team’s readiness to seize opportunities when they arise, despite the inherent risks.
Upcoming Challenges and Expectations
As the Cowboys enter the final stretch of the regular season, anticipation builds for their upcoming games. Weeks 16 and 18 will be hosted at AT&T Stadium, providing Aubrey another chance to dazzle the home crowd. Sandwiched between these home games will be a Week 17 clash against the Philadelphia Eagles. Each of these matches may present opportunities for Aubrey to further his legacy and demonstrate his prowess in high-pressure scenarios.
The sentiment from McCarthy that "I wish we were indoors" even during outdoor games reflects a nuanced understanding of the variables that impact kicking dynamics. Aubrey’s remarkable journey continues to captivate the sports world, as he strives to find that perfect balance between skill and the mercurial whimsy of nature and circumstance.
Beyond the statistics and achievements, what stands out is the relentless drive and unwavering focus of Brandon Aubrey. Each game, each kick, becomes a part of his story—a narrative of ambition, talent, and the pursuit of greatness. As the season unfolds, fans and team members alike will watch closely, eager to see what the future holds for this phenomenal kicker.