Dempsey still has a leg up on Broncos' kicker: Letter
 

While Denver Broncos placekicker Matt Prater set a new NFL record on Sunday with his 64-yard field goal, Tom Dempsey's 63-yard field goal for the New Orleans Saints on Nov. 8, 1970, against the Detroit Lions remains the greatest kick in NFL history.

First, Dempsey made his field goal with just two seconds left and the game on the line -- the Saints trailed the playoff*bound Lions 17-16, and they won on Dempsey's kick, 19-17.

Prater's kick was merely at the end of the half.

Second, Dempsey did it in New Orleans, not in mile-high Denver.

Third, like Bob Beamon's long jump at the 1968 Olym*pics, Dempsey's kick shattered the previous record (by seven yards), and the new record lasted for decades before it was surpassed.

And finally, Dempsey's kick not only won the game, but it inspired people, because Dempsey was born without toes on his kicking foot or fin*gers on his right hand.

Prater may now have a place in the record books, but Dempsey's game-winning kick will remain an inspiration forever.

Stephen A. Silver

San Francisco, Calif.

Dempsey still has a leg up on Broncos' kicker: Letter | NOLA.com

Re: Dempsey still has a leg up on Broncos' kicker: Letter
 

yep records fall and stories fade in time. so always remind the younger fans of the history and the facts surrounding them. keep the facts true and alive

Re: Dempsey still has a leg up on Broncos' kicker: Letter
 

Do it close to sea level and I would accept it. It's no different than Olympic athletes records not counting due to wind assisted. Bet they don't even attempt that kick close to sea level. They knew exactly what they were doing. It's still an amazing feat but it should be noted where it happened to make it crystal clear.

Re: Dempsey still has a leg up on Broncos' kicker: Letter
 

come kick that distance in the swamp, horsies.

your "record" needs a *

Re: Dempsey still has a leg up on Broncos' kicker: Letter
 

Kicking 64+ yards in the Super Dome would have an * also.... Dempsey set the record out doors.