While the kicker is often referred to as football’s least physically intimidating player, it cannot be denied that there is a great amount of skill needed to be successful at the position.  Accuracy is the kicker’s most important skill, but power is a close second. One of the biggest legs in the 1960s was that of Tom Dempsey.

On this day, November 8th, in 1970, Tom Dempsey kicked the longest field goal in NFL history. With only two seconds remaining in the game, the Saints were down 16-17 and the coaches elected to attempt a field goal from 63 yards away; a distance that seemed unimaginable to most.  The memorable 63-yard kick went through the uprights to secure a Saints’ victory.

Dempsey’s record was later tied, then surpassed, but it stood for over three decades.