Bengals Kicker McPherson Sets State Record with 63-Yard Field Goal

CINCINNATI, Ohio — Cincinnati Bengals kicker Evan McPherson made history on Sunday, kicking a 63-yard field goal against the New England Patriots. The record-breaking field goal occurred on the final snap of the first half during a tightly contested game.

Bengals coach Zac Taylor expressed no surprise at McPherson’s remarkable feat. "He’s in a great rhythm and has a lot of confidence. I double-checked with special-teams coordinator Darren Simmons, and he didn’t hesitate," Taylor said. "You just assume it’s going in when Evan is on the field."

The kick marked McPherson’s second attempt this season from beyond 59 yards, following a near 67-yard kick against the Green Bay Packers that was nullified by a timeout. This time, the kick sailed through the uprights, eclipsing the previous Alabama state record of 62 yards set by Minnesota Vikings kicker Matt Reichard.

McPherson reflected on his achievement, noting, "I’ve always thought about it. It would be cool to get one on the other side of the field one day. I’m just blessed to be put in that situation." The 22-year-old kicker has been a reliable asset for the Bengals, successfully converting 17 of 20 field goals this season.

Before this game, McPherson’s longest kick for Cincinnati had been 59 yards. Now, his name stands among a select group as only the 14th player in NFL history to make a field goal of 63 yards or more. "It feels good to get one on the other side of the field," he added.

McPherson’s kick contributed to the Bengals’ offense when they had only seconds left on the clock. Following a strategic offensive play, Cincinnati gained critical yardage to set up the kick. "You’re never out of it," McPherson said, emphasizing the importance of staying focused even as the game reaches its climax.

The Bengals will take the field again on Thanksgiving, facing the Baltimore Ravens at 7:20 PM CST. Their momentum will build on McPherson’s record, further solidifying his role as one of the league’s most exciting young kickers.