After missing two field goals and an extra point, which allowed the Giants to take the lead during Sunday’s game, all eyes were on Nick Folk, the kicker brought in this years to help the team win games. With the clock winding down, and the Bucs trailing by just 1 point, Winston took a knee twice to set up Folk for a 34 yard field goal kick, from the middle of the field.
I think at that moment, Bucs fans around the world were on the edge of their seats, holding their breath; I know I was! When the kick followed through the goal, with mere seconds left on the clock, there was a sigh of relief and a lot of excitement. The 34-yard field goal gave the Bucs the lead over the Giants, and they won the game, 25-23.
“Kickers have to make it, that’s what they get paid to do. We left plenty of points out there and the game didn’t have to be that close.” said coach Koetter, after the game.
Folk also commented, after the game winning field goal, “In the end, that’s all that matters (getting the win), but I’ve probably never felt worse after a game-winning kick.”
However, it seems that Winston’s confidence in his kicker never wavered, “After he missed that second one, I went to him and told him: You’re going to win this game for us. He wasn’t down at all, his spirits were up and he won it, I never had a doubt.” said Quarterback, Jameis Winston.
The Buccaneers are set to play the New England Patriots on Thursday night.