The differences are slight, but enough to lend credence to the idea that the Patriots did not take a step back when they replaced the popular and dependable Vinatieri with a rookie from the University of Memphis.
But Gostkowski, through no fault of his own, is missing an important line on his professional résumé. He has yet to win a playoff game with a field goal in the final minute.
“I’d welcome the opportunity. It just hasn’t happened yet,’’ Gostkowski said Thursday. “There’s really not much I can do about that except be prepared for it when the time comes.’’
Such situations were a specialty for Vinatieri. His 45-yard field goal through the teeth of a blizzard tied a division playoff game against the Raiders in 2002 with 27 seconds remaining. He then won the “Snow Bowl’’ with a 23-yard field goal in overtime.
Vinatieri also kicked field goals to win Super Bowls XXXVI and XXXVIII. The first was as time expired and the second with four seconds to go. In all, Vinatieri kicked 18 game-winning field goals [regular season and postseason] with less than a minute remaining during his 10 seasons with the Patriots.
Gostkowski doesn’t have any, although he did kick the winner with 1:10 remaining in the Patriots’ 24-21 win over the Chargers in a division-round game in 2006. He also hit a 35-yarder with 1:56 remaining in overtime to beat the Ravens on Oct. 17, 2010. His 24-yard field goal with 1:51 remaining in regulation tied that game.
It would not be a surprise if Sunday’s Super Bowl came down to a last-second kick. The Patriots were beaten, 24-20, by the Giants earlier this season and are favored by 3 points on Sunday.
“I’m just excited to play and kick as many field goals and extra points as possible. If it comes down to the end of the game, I’ll be ready,’’ Gostkowski said.
For Gostkowski, it’s something he can’t help but think about. But he does not want to dwell on it, either.
“This game is so hyped up and publicized. You know what you’re getting into when you sign up. One thing is that I’ve never been scared to fail,’’ he said.
