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.
One play stood out—a remarkable field goal by Joey Slye.
In a game where the Patriots found it hard to gain any momentum, 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.
Slye drilled the 63-yard field goal and secured the Patriots' only points of the first half.
The kick by Slye tied for the fourth-longest field goal in NFL history.
Slye's kick was the second-longest field goal made by any kicker since the start of the 2022 season.
Dallas Cowboys' Brandon Aubrey set a 65-yard field goal record earlier this season. Meanwhile, Justin Tucker holds the NFL record with a 66-yard field goal against the Detroit Lions in September 2021.
Matt Prater holds the third-longest kick at 64 yards, accomplished in 2013.
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 a 63-yard kick to beat the Giants.
Slye’s field goal was the fourth in NFL history from 63 yards or longer executed outdoors but not in Denver.
Despite Slye’s heroics, the Patriots couldn’t turn around their fortunes in Week 4. They struggled to find any offensive rhythm, and even with Slye’s historic kick, it was clear that the team had much work to do. It remains to be seen how the Patriots will adjust in the coming weeks.
Slye’s kick offers a testament to his skill and precision.
The Patriots had a tough outing against the 49ers, but Joey Slye gave them a moment of exceptionalism.