Brandon Aubrey: Cowboys’ Secret Weapon? Analyzing His Special Teams Prowess & Impact

Brandon Aubrey’s recent NFC Special Teams Player of the Week award, announced Wednesday by the league office, is more than just a pat on the back. It highlights the crucial role he’s playing for the Dallas Cowboys and raises the question: is he their secret weapon in close games?

The Cowboys’ official site emphasized Aubrey’s two significant kicks – one in regulation and another in overtime – that were instrumental in securing a victory. But to truly understand Aubrey’s impact, we need to delve deeper than just highlight reel moments.

Firstly, consistency is key in the NFL, and Aubrey has demonstrated remarkable reliability. While specific stats from the referenced article are limited, anecdotal evidence and broader team performance suggest he’s exceeding expectations in field goal percentage and extra point attempts. This consistency provides much-needed confidence to the Cowboys’ coaching staff, allowing them to make strategic decisions knowing they have a dependable kicker.

Secondly, clutch performance is what separates good kickers from great ones. Successfully converting high-pressure kicks, especially in the fourth quarter or overtime, can completely swing the momentum of a game and ultimately determine the outcome. Aubrey’s recent game-winning kick in overtime underscores his ability to perform under immense pressure. This adds another dimension to the Cowboys’ offense, knowing they have a weapon capable of delivering victory even when the offense stalls in the red zone.

Beyond the tangible statistics and game-winning kicks, Aubrey’s presence also provides a psychological advantage. Opposing teams are now more cautious about leaving points on the board within his range, as they know he’s a legitimate threat to convert from distance. This can influence their play-calling and decision-making, potentially forcing them into riskier situations.

Furthermore, a reliable kicker reduces the pressure on the offense to constantly score touchdowns. Knowing they can settle for a field goal in certain situations allows the offense to be more patient and methodical, potentially leading to fewer turnovers and more sustained drives. This improved efficiency can have a cascading effect on the entire team, boosting morale and overall performance.

In conclusion, while the Cowboys have numerous stars on both offense and defense, Brandon Aubrey’s impact on special teams cannot be overlooked. His consistency, clutch performance, and the psychological advantage he provides make him a valuable asset and potentially the Cowboys’ secret weapon in their pursuit of a Super Bowl.