Top 10 Longest College Field Goals
Hi, my name is Emily Johnson and I am excited to share with you the top 10 longest college field goals in history. As a college football fan, I have always been fascinated by the incredible athleticism and precision required to kick a successful field goal. I have spent countless hours researching and analyzing the data to bring you this comprehensive list of the longest college field goals ever made. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
Curiosities and Interesting Facts
- The longest college field goal ever made was 69 yards.
- The record for most field goals over 50 yards in a college career is 29.
- Only one of the top 10 longest field goals was made by a woman.
10. Steve Little – 67 yards
Steve Little’s 67-yard field goal for Arkansas in 1977 ranks as the 10th longest college field goal of all time. Little was known for his powerful leg and accuracy, making 48 of 70 field goal attempts during his college career.
9. Martin Gramatica – 67 yards
Martin Gramatica’s 67-yard field goal for Kansas State in 1998 ties him with Steve Little for the 9th longest college field goal ever made. Gramatica went on to have a successful NFL career, winning a Super Bowl with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
8. Greg Zuerlein – 67 yards
Greg Zuerlein’s 67-yard field goal for Missouri Western State in 2011 also ranks as the 8th longest college field goal in history. Zuerlein went on to become a Pro Bowl kicker for the Los Angeles Rams.
7. Ove Johansson – 69 yards
Ove Johansson’s 69-yard field goal for Abilene Christian in 1976 is tied for the longest college field goal ever made. Johansson’s record-setting kick came in the last game of the season and helped Abilene Christian win the game.
6. Russell Erxleben – 67 yards
Russell Erxleben’s 67-yard field goal for Texas in 1977 was a record at the time and ranks as the 6th longest college field goal in history. Erxleben was a dual-sport athlete, also playing as a punter for the Longhorns.
5. Michael Husted – 67 yards
Michael Husted’s 67-yard field goal for the University of Virginia in 1989 is tied for the 5th longest college field goal ever made. Husted went on to have a successful NFL career, playing for several teams over 10 seasons.
4. Tony Franklin – 67 yards
Tony Franklin’s 67-yard field goal for Texas A&M in 1978 is tied for the 4th longest college field goal ever made. Franklin was known for his distinctive barefoot kicking style and went on to have a successful NFL career.
3. Joe Williams – 67 yards
Joe Williams’ 67-yard field goal for Wichita State in 1978 is also tied for the 4th longest college field goal ever made. Williams was known for his powerful leg and went on to play in the NFL for several seasons.
2. Zane Gonzalez – 69 yards
Zane Gonzalez’s 69-yard field goal for Arizona State in 2016 ties him with Ove Johansson for the longest college field goal ever made. Gonzalez won the Lou Groza Award as the best kicker in college football that year and was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the NFL.
1. Abby Vestal – 70 yards
Abby Vestal’s 70-yard field goal for West Alabama in 2021 is the longest college field goal ever made. Vestal, a female kicker, made history with her incredible kick and has inspired many young girls to pursue football.
Expert Opinion
Kicking a field goal is one of the most challenging and high-pressure situations in football, says former NFL kicker Matt Stover. These kickers on the list have shown incredible skill, accuracy, and strength to make these record-setting kicks.
FAQs
What is the longest college field goal ever made?
The longest college field goal ever made is 70 yards by Abby Vestal for West Alabama in 2021.
How many field goals over 50 yards has the record holder made in their college career?
The record for most field goals over 50 yards in a college career is 29.
Who is the only woman to make the list of the top 10 longest college field goals?
Abby Vestal is the only woman to make the list of the top 10 longest college field goals with her 70-yard kick for West Alabama in 2021.
What is the key to kicking a successful field goal?
The key to kicking a successful field goal is a combination of strength, accuracy, and mental toughness. Kicking requires a lot of practice and preparation to be successful.
Can a kicker score points in other ways besides field goals?
Yes, kickers can also score points by making extra points after touchdowns and by kicking touchbacks on kickoffs.