What is the Longest Field Goal in College Football? And Why Do Kickers Dream of Breaking Records?

The longest field goal in college football history is a remarkable 67-yard kick, achieved by Ove Johansson of Abilene Christian University in 1976. This record has stood for nearly five decades, a testament to the skill, precision, and sheer power required to achieve such a feat. But what makes this record so enduring? And why do kickers continue to chase the dream of breaking it? Let’s dive into the fascinating world of college football field goals, exploring the history, science, and psychology behind this iconic record.

The Anatomy of a Field Goal

A field goal in football is a scoring play where the kicker attempts to send the ball through the opponent’s goalposts. The distance of the kick is measured from the line of scrimmage to the goalposts, plus 17 yards (the length of the end zone). For a 67-yard field goal, the ball must travel 84 yards in total, accounting for the end zone. This requires not only incredible leg strength but also perfect timing, technique, and favorable weather conditions.

The Record-Breaking Kick: Ove Johansson’s 67-Yard Miracle

On October 16, 1976, Ove Johansson, a Swedish-born kicker for Abilene Christian University, made history. Facing a strong tailwind and playing at a high altitude in Lubbock, Texas, Johansson launched a 67-yard field goal that sailed through the uprights. This kick remains the longest in college football history, a record that has yet to be surpassed despite advancements in training, equipment, and athleticism.

Johansson’s kick was a product of perfect conditions and exceptional skill. The tailwind provided extra lift, while the high altitude reduced air resistance, allowing the ball to travel farther. However, it’s important to note that Johansson’s record is not officially recognized by the NCAA due to the use of a tee, which was later banned in college football. Despite this, his achievement remains a legendary moment in the sport.

Why Hasn’t the Record Been Broken?

Several factors contribute to the longevity of Johansson’s record:

1. Rule Changes: The NCAA banned the use of kicking tees in 1989, making it more difficult for kickers to achieve extreme distances. Without the tee, kickers must rely solely on their leg strength and technique.

2. Risk vs. Reward: Coaches are often hesitant to attempt extremely long field goals due to the risk of a blocked kick or a short attempt giving the opposing team excellent field position. This limits opportunities for kickers to even attempt record-breaking kicks.

3. Weather and Field Conditions: Perfect conditions, like those Johansson enjoyed, are rare. Wind, rain, and altitude all play significant roles in the success of long field goals.

4. Focus on Accuracy: Modern kickers are often trained for accuracy rather than distance. With games frequently decided by narrow margins, a reliable 40-yard kick is often more valuable than a risky 60-yard attempt.

The Science of Long Field Goals

Achieving a long field goal is as much about physics as it is about athleticism. The ideal kick combines three key elements:

1. Launch Angle: The ball must be kicked at an optimal angle to maximize distance while still clearing the crossbar. Too high, and the ball loses momentum; too low, and it risks being blocked or falling short.

2. Ball Speed: The faster the ball leaves the kicker’s foot, the farther it will travel. Elite kickers can generate ball speeds of over 70 miles per hour.

3. Spin and Stability: A well-struck ball has a tight spiral, which reduces air resistance and ensures a stable flight path.

The Psychology of Record Chasers

For kickers, breaking the longest field goal record is more than just a physical challenge—it’s a mental one. The pressure of attempting a historic kick, often in front of thousands of fans, can be overwhelming. Yet, many kickers dream of etching their names into the record books. This drive is fueled by a combination of personal ambition, team loyalty, and the desire to leave a lasting legacy.

Notable Attempts and Near-Misses

While Johansson’s record remains unbroken, several kickers have come close:

• Russell Erxleben (Texas, 1977): Kicked a 67-yard field goal, but it was later nullified due to a penalty.
• Steve Little (Arkansas, 1977): Made a 67-yard kick in a game, but it was not counted as an official record.
• Joe Williams (Wichita State, 1978): Successfully kicked a 67-yard field goal, but like Johansson’s, it was not recognized by the NCAA due to the use of a tee.

These near-misses highlight the fine margins between success and failure in the world of long field goals.

The Future of Long Field Goals

As training methods and equipment continue to evolve, it’s possible that Johansson’s record could one day be broken. Advances in biomechanics, nutrition, and strength training are helping kickers develop greater power and precision. Additionally, the growing popularity of specialized kicking camps and coaches is producing a new generation of elite kickers.

However, breaking the record will require more than just physical ability. It will take a perfect combination of skill, opportunity, and conditions—a reminder of why Johansson’s 67-yard kick remains one of the most awe-inspiring moments in college football history.

FAQs

Q: Has anyone ever kicked a longer field goal than Ove Johansson? A: No, Johansson’s 67-yard kick remains the longest in college football history, though it is not officially recognized by the NCAA due to the use of a tee.

Q: Why don’t coaches attempt more long field goals? A: Long field goals are high-risk plays. A missed or blocked kick can give the opposing team excellent field position, making coaches hesitant to attempt them.

Q: What is the longest field goal in NFL history? A: The longest field goal in NFL history is 66 yards, achieved by Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens in 2021.

Q: How do weather conditions affect field goal attempts? A: Wind, rain, and altitude can significantly impact the trajectory and distance of a field goal. A strong tailwind can help the ball travel farther, while a headwind can reduce its range.

Q: Are there any current college kickers who could break the record? A: While several kickers have the leg strength to attempt a 67-yard field goal, breaking the record would require perfect conditions and an opportunity to attempt such a kick.