Hanson sets career mark for 50-yard FGs

History Published on : 12/15/2008

Despite a tough season for the Detroit Lions in 2008, the team’s long-time placekicker Jason Hanson has endured. On Sunday, he made history when he connected on a 51-yard field goal in the first quarter against the Indianapolis Colts.

The three-pointer marked an NFL record 41st career field goal of 50 yards or longer. The previous record holder was Morten Andersen who kicked 40 field goals of 50 or more yards during his career with the New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons, New York Giants, Kansas City Chiefs and Minnesota Vikings from 1982-2004, 2006-07.

Yesterday’s record kick was Hanson’s eighth field goal of 50 yards or longer this season which ties Andersen’s mark for 50-yard field goals in a season (1995). Prior to this year, the most 50-yarders that Hanson had converted in a season was four which he did three different times.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame and the Lions have already been in discussion and memorabilia from Hanson’s milestone kick will be sent to the sports museum soon.

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NFL.com: Jason Hanson player page