Matt Prater Makes History with Buzzer-Beating Kicks for the Bills
Matt Prater is carving out his place in Buffalo. The veteran kicker was signed to the Bills’ active roster on Tuesday, just two days after delivering a stunning performance that featured game-winning field goals at both halftime and the regulation buzzer. His clutch kicks propelled the Bills to a thrilling 41-40 victory over the Baltimore Ravens during Sunday Night Football.
From Practice Squad to Active Roster
Prater’s journey to this moment started when he was signed to the practice squad last week. He was elevated to the active roster on game day to fill in for Tyler Bass, who is currently on Injured Reserve. With Bass’s eventual return looming, the Bills face an intriguing decision about the kicking position, but for now, Prater has firmly established himself on the active roster.
A Record-Breaking Achievement
In a remarkable feat, Prater became the oldest player to ever appear in a regular season game for the Bills. According to reports, he took the field at the age of 41 years and 28 days during Week 1, celebrating his 41st birthday just a month prior on August 10. This milestone marks Prater’s 19th season in the NFL, where he has previously donned the jerseys of the Falcons, Broncos, Lions, and Cardinals.
Setting the Bar High
It’s hard to imagine a more perfect start to Prater’s time in Buffalo. As the team gears up for their next challenge against the New York Jets, they will hope to avoid the need for last-second heroics. However, if the situation arises, Prater has shown he is more than capable of delivering in the clutch, adding a veteran presence to the Bills’ roster.
Looking Ahead
As the Bills prepare for their upcoming matchup, the excitement surrounding Prater’s performance is palpable. His ability to handle pressure in critical moments will be invaluable as the season progresses. With a history of success and a newfound home in Buffalo, Prater’s journey is just beginning, and fans will be eager to see what he can accomplish next.
