Field Goals: The Unsung Drama of the NFL Season
As the NFL season edges into early 2024, the reliability—or unpredictability—of field goal kickers is a focal point of discussion among fans and analysts alike. The precision required for a successful field goal often gets overshadowed by the more spectacular plays of the game, yet the events of Week 11 have illuminated just how crucial these attempts can be.
Brandon Aubrey: A Beacon of Consistency
At the forefront of kicking reliability is Brandon Aubrey of the Dallas Cowboys. Aubrey has impressed fans and critics with his unwavering consistency, especially in nailing field goals from the 50-yard line. His performance has been particularly noteworthy in a season where stability among kickers is a rare commodity. Week after week, Aubrey’s name is highlighted for his contribution to the Cowboys’ scoreboard, securing points with a finesse seldom matched in the league.
Unpredictability Reigns in Week 11
Week 11 served as a reminder of the precarious nature of field goal kicking. Jake Elliott of the Philadelphia Eagles missed three key attempts during a game against the Washington Commanders, including one crucial extra point. Despite these setbacks, the Eagles managed to claim victory. Elliott’s misses were unexpected; prior to these, he ranked within the top 25 for career field goal rates. Nonetheless, these blunders were an anomaly in his otherwise impeccable track record, particularly in postseason scenarios where he remains 16-for-16.
Similarly, the dependable Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens faced his share of struggles. Known for having the best career field goal rate in NFL history at an impressive 89.7% before Week 11, Tucker missed two pivotal kicks from 47 and 50 yards. The Ravens’ narrow two-point loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers underscored the consequential nature of Tucker’s rare off-day. Such misses are startling in a career that has so frequently seen Tucker make the seemingly impossible look routine.
A Common Thread of Unexpected Challenges
Evan McPherson of the Cincinnati Bengals also experienced a turbulent week. His two missed attempts, including a 51-yard attempt against the Los Angeles Chargers, proved detrimental as the Bengals struggled throughout the match. McPherson’s woes highlight the volatile nature of placekicking—a realm where even the most accomplished can falter under pressure.
While field goal attempts might seem mundane, the recent spate of misses among renowned kickers has added an unexpected layer of drama to the current NFL season. These moments not only impact the outcomes of individual games but also the broader narratives developing as the playoffs loom.
The Larger Impact
The recent struggles of these elite kickers prompt a reconsideration of how pivotal these athletes are to their teams. While quarterbacks and wide receivers often grab the headlines, the kickers quietly earn and lose points that decide outcomes. As the season progresses, the spotlight will continue to shine on those tasked with making field goals, reminding us all of the delicate balance between precision and pressure that defines their role.
The field goal may be just a moment in a game measured in milliseconds, yet its influence on the NFL landscape is eternal. As players like Aubrey maintain their path of consistency, and others like Elliott, Tucker, and McPherson seek to reclaim it, one can anticipate that the storyline of this season’s kickers will only grow richer with each game played.