David Akers Ties NFL Record With 63-Yard Field Goal Off the Crossbar

San Francisco 49ers veteran David Akers became the fourth kicker in NFL history to hit a 63-yard field goal, joining Sebastian Janikowski, Jason Elam and Tom Dempsey in the record books.

Yahoo! Sports' Pat Forde made sure to mention the specific circumstances of Akers' kick, via Twitter:

"

Four kickers have made 63-yard FGs: Dempsey, Elam, Seabass and now David Akers. Only Dempsey and Akers did it without aid of thin Denver air

— Pat Forde (@YahooForde) September 9, 2012"

Denver's high altitude would have given this boot a different feel, but Lambeau Field doesn't lend that same advantage. Akers penetrated the Green Bay air like he was back at Mile High Stadium:

Akers' long-range strike gave his team a 16-7 lead over the Green Bay Packers as the first half came to a close.

Earlier in the game, Akers also hit from 40 and 43 yards, but this is something entirely different. Not only did it give his squad a two-possession lead, but it gave the 49ers a plethora of momentum heading into the locker room.

Akers has always had a great reputation. He's a six-time Pro Bowler and was a member of the NFL's All-2000s team. He's been consistent throughout his career, and his reliability makes him a valuable commodity on special teams.

If you watched Akers' kick, he didn't seem to have high expectations for it. His reaction, and the thud off the crossbar, added to the accomplishment and injected more energy in Week 1's marquee matchup.

Janikowski's kick is still fresh in our minds from last season, but Akers' age makes this more special.