In an emotional post-game moment, Tyler Bass celebrated with the Buffalo Bills after his game-winning play in Week 9. The Bills clinched a thrilling 30-27 win over the Miami Dolphins at Highmark Stadium, solidifying their lead in the AFC East. Bass sealed the victory by nailing a stunning 61-yard field goal, a franchise record, with just seconds remaining on the clock. This moment held special meaning for Bass, who had faced scrutiny over his starting kicker role in recent weeks. Earlier, he missed an extra point, intensifying the pressure leading up to his record-breaking kick. “I couldn’t have done it without you guys,” Bass said tearfully after being awarded the game ball. “I’ve been through a lot, and I just leaned on you all. Going out there and doing that for you means the world.”
Before presenting the game ball, Coach Sean McDermott praised Bass’s resilience. “Unbelievable, right? Mentally tough. I’m so proud of you, man. Aren’t you guys proud?” McDermott said, adding, “When the game’s on the line, you guys are at your best. T. Bass, that’s a prime example. Not so great early, but then comes back with the game-winner. 61 yards.”
The 27-year-old kicker has consistently achieved at least an 80% success rate on field goals each year, though 2024 has been challenging. In the playoffs, he hit just 2 of 5 attempts, notably missing a critical 44-yarder that could have tied the game in a divisional loss to the Kansas City Chiefs on January 21.
Despite struggles this season—missing three extra points and three field goals out of 15 tries—Bass has demonstrated his clutch ability, going a perfect 9-for-9 in the final minute of the fourth quarter and overtime throughout his career, with five game-winners.
Before Bass’s 61-yard game-winner, Steve Christie held the longest field goal record in Buffalo’s history, set in 1993. Bass’s kick now stands among just 16 in NFL history to exceed 61 yards, with Justin Tucker’s 66-yard record achieved in 2021. With the win, the Bills improved to 7-2, and Bass likely solidified his role as the starting kicker for another week.
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