Wisconsin Football: Badgers Player Named Semi-Finalist for Award

In a season marked by disappointment for Wisconsin Badgers football, one shining beacon of hope is emerging—kicker Nathanial Vakos. 

Despite the team’s 5-4 record and a general lack of positivity, Vakos has garnered national attention by being named a semi-finalist for the prestigious Lou Groza Award, recognizing college football’s top place-kicker.

Wisconsin Football Kicker Nathaniel Vakos Named Semi-Finalist 

A transfer from Ohio, Nathaniel Vakos boasts an impressive track record this season, going 22/22 on extra points and 12/14 on field goals. 

His accuracy extends across various distances, with a perfect 1/1 from inside 20 yards, 2/2 from 20-29 yards, 5/5 from 30-39 yards, 3/3 from 40-49 yards, and 1/3 from 50 yards and beyond.

Yes, you read that correctly—Vakos has maintained flawless accuracy from inside 50 yards this season, showcasing a level of consistent production rarely seen by Wisconsin football fans. 

The Lou Groza Award has a history of recognizing outstanding kickers, with previous winners including Michigan’s Jake Moody in 2021, Georgia’s Rodrigo Blankenship in 2019, Utah’s Matt Gay in 2018, and UCLA’s Ka’imi Fairbairn in 2015. 

Nathaniel Vakos‘ strong performance thus far has positioned him among the elite in college football’s kicking ranks.

One of the best 🦿🙌@nathanial_vakos is a semi-finalist for the @LouGrozaAward ‼️ pic.twitter.com/yFdsoNtiEP

— Wisconsin Football (@BadgerFootball) November 9, 2023

Thank you for taking time out of your busy day to read our work at BadgerNotes.com. For more Wisconsin Badgers Athletics and Big Ten content, follow us on Twitter & Facebook. You can also subscribe to our YouTube Channel. 

Also, be sure to check out our shop, subscribe to our newsletter, and the BadgerNotes After Dark podcast, which is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all other streaming platforms. Because of your support, we have become one of the fastest-growing independent media outlets focused on giving a voice to the fans!