Cairo Santos said the decision to attempt the record-setting field goal in the Chicago Bears’ victory over the New England Patriots came from him. With less than two minutes remaining and Chicago leading 27-21, Santos convinced the coaching staff to let him try from 58 yards at Soldier Field.
The attempt became the longest field goal of the Brazilian kicker’s 13-year NFL career, surpassing his previous personal record by three yards. The situation changed after quarterback Caleb Williams was sacked on third down, turning what would have been a 50-yard attempt into a much more difficult kick.
The Bears initially appeared ready to punt, but an injury to Patriots defensive lineman Christian Barmore stopped the clock. Santos used the pause to approach special teams coach Richard Hightower and express his confidence.
“I can do it,” Santos told Hightower, according to the kicker. When the coach asked whether he wanted the opportunity, Santos replied that he did. The staff quickly changed the decision and sent the field-goal unit onto the field.
Santos had missed a 53-yard attempt earlier in the fourth quarter, but he said that error did not undermine his belief that he could convert from within 60 yards that day. The successful kick extended Chicago’s advantage to two possessions and helped secure a 30-21 victory.
The Patriots had 1:28 remaining to try to change the result. They managed to score a field goal and then attempted an onside kick, but the recovery was unsuccessful.
Now in his seventh consecutive season with Chicago, Santos also highlighted the confidence he has received from his teammates, including Williams. The kicker said the quarterback’s aggressive style can sometimes lead to sacks, but that Williams trusts him to recover points in those situations.
Santos has converted all 21 of his extra-point attempts this season. Through seven games, he had made 11 of 15 field-goal attempts, a 73.3% success rate, and contributed 54 of the Bears’ 180 offensive points. Chicago entered the week with a 5-2 record, while Santos remained the most accurate kicker in franchise history, with an overall conversion rate of 87.2%.
The Brazilian said his recent misses had caused more frustration than a loss of confidence. After making the 58-yard kick, however, he felt he had regained momentum and that more opportunities would follow.
The Bears are scheduled to face the defending champion Seahawks away from home on Monday, with Chicago seeking to strengthen its playoff hopes.
Sources: Globo Esporte.