Senior Specialists to Watch in 2022
Often an under-appreciated position, placekickers are needed in the most critical points in a game. Namely, at the very end, this is where you want to make sure that the kicker is consistent and capable. These incoming seniors have proven…
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Continue ReadingOften an under-appreciated position, placekickers are needed in the most critical points in a game. Namely, at the very end, this is where you want to make sure that the kicker is consistent and capable. These incoming seniors have proven that they have what it takes to make the game-winning field goal!
Sebastian Lopez – K/P – Carroll (Fort Wayne)
When analyzing a kicker, there are crucial elements to their game that are small but crucial for success. Sebastian does a lot of the little things well. This allowed him to make a total of 9 out of 11 field goals this season. The first thing I noticed watching his film is the initial lift that he gets. This is very important to avoid the rushers pushing to gain ground in the middle. Not only that, but his operation is very consistent as well. He Takes the exact first step with the up-foot every time his name is called. Having a consistent process is a key factor to avoiding blocked field goals!
Miguel Aguilar – 5’9″ / 180lbs – K/P – Concord (Elkhart)
Calm and relaxed is how I would describe Miguel. I had not seen anything like it in all my time involved with football. He was able to knock down 8 of 10 field goals this year. That is a respectable number considering that he may not have always had the greatest snaps, as seen on film. There is one highlight in particular where there was an errant snap that was decently placed by the holder; instead of panicking, Miguel had the presence to stop while rushers were still pursuing and get off a quick chipshot. He has good power that gave him a long of 44 yards this year.
David Mathis – 5’5″ / 180lbs – K/P – Whiteland
David has a very sturdy frame that has great power potential. His follow-through is quick, and he can get a good lift on the ball. He hasn’t shown any line drive kicks; all kicks pop up with good height and rotation. Although his long for the year is 38 yards, there is plenty of room for more on each kick. You can tell that David is very methodical with his setup before each snap, ensuring that his body is in the proper position to aim each field goal. He also can hit a well-rotated onside kick as well!
Nathaniel Hedrick – 5’9″ / 155lbs – K – Columbus East
Standing out on film is Nathaniel’s evident power in his leg. The ball seems to explode off of his foot on field goals and kickoffs. His follow-through is strong; he does an excellent job of getting his plant foot and leg in proper alignment to gain the power he gets out of his 155-pound body. Sticking the plant foot and rotating his hips provides a distinct advantage in his ability to gain distance with the ball. Every kickoff had looked to find its home in the endzone.
Ben Sponsler – 5’6″ / 160lbs – K – Carmel
It has been hammered home in this article, but getting a good lift on field goals is essential on the collegiate level. Ben is no exception to that criteria; he has consistent pop on the ball that instantly rises above the rushers of the defense. Ben has shown the ability to work during suboptimal conditions. Whether a fumbled or poor snap, he has the patience to adjust and get the ball up in the air.