Ohio State kicker makes Lou Groza preseason watch list for 2026

The Ohio State football team's kicking unit has been a source of amusement for fans in recent years due to a series of missed crucial kicks. However, the coaching staff is optimistic about the future after acquiring former Baylor placekicker Connor Hawkins from the transfer portal. While this news does not guarantee success, Hawkins made the preseason watch list for the Lou Groza Award, named in honor of the late OSU and Cleveland Browns legend, Lou Groza.

Born in Liberty Hill, Texas, Hawkins transferred to Baylor two years ago but was a redshirt in 2024. In 2023, he converted 18 of 22 field goal attempts (81.8%) and made all 37 extra points. His longest successful kick was from 54 yards, an impressive feat considering the OSU offense hasn't typically required such long field goals in recent years.

Hawkins led the Big 12 in field goal percentage during the 2023 season. The Lou Groza Award, established in 1992, is bestowed annually by the Palm Beach County Sports Commission to the best college football placekicker in the nation. Ohio State's Mike Nugent is the only Buckeye to have ever won the prestigious award, achieving the accolade in 2004 while still a consensus All-American.

Watch lists like this one are subject to change throughout the season, culminating in the winner's announcement on December 11 during the ESPN Home Depot College Football Awards Show. For the latest updates on Ohio State news, stay tuned to the Buckeyes Wire on X and follow Phil Harrison on the same platform.