Tyler Loop's clutch 56-yard FG lifts Ravens over Cowboys, helps atone for last season's rough end

In a thrilling back-and-forth game, Baltimore Ravens kicker Tyler Loop secured a 34-31 victory over the Dallas Cowboys, performing a clutch 56-yard field goal as time expired. Loop's successful kick marked a significant turning point in his career, providing a satisfying conclusion to the second-year kicker's challenging season.

Loop had previously faced adversity following a missed 44-yard field goal attempt in a Week 18 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, which eliminated the Ravens from postseason contention and led to coach John Harbaugh's dismissal after 18 years with the team. The missed kick caused Loop to engage in introspection and consider football as a gift meant to be enjoyed.

Returning to the Maracana Stadium in Rio de Janeiro for another chance to make a winning kick, Loop was ready. With just one second left on the clock, Lamar Jackson completed a 27-yard pass to Zay Flowers, prompting Loop to call a timeout. The kicker calmly executed his task, driving the ball through the uprights with ample distance remaining.

Loop then sprinted downfield, pursued by his teammates who celebrated his remarkable accomplishment. Lamar Jackson eventually joined him, slapping hands and giving Loop a heartfelt hug.

Jackson expressed his confidence in Loop's abilities, stating, "I had no doubt in my mind. I felt like we had already won. ... I was standing on the sideline like, ‘Your legacy starts now, because I know he’s been facing adversity. What a way to start your legacy — in Brazil. He finished the rest. He did it. Shout out to special teams.

Shout out to Loop." Loop, who has successfully made five of six field goal attempts and all seven of his extra points through three games this season, acknowledged the significance of the moment, saying, "This is special. It's hard to win in the NFL and we won tonight. But we've got to get back to work. We'll celebrate tonight on the plane, have some fun, but then on Monday, it's time to get ready for the next game."