Bernie Wilson
Updated on: October 8, 2024 8:17 pm GMT
The Longest College Football Field Goal: A Historic Kick
On October 16, 1976, Ove Johansson etched his name into college football lore when he kicked a record-setting 69-yard field goal for Abilene Christian University during a game against East Texas State. This monumental moment not only solidified Johansson’s place in sports history but also captivated a crowd of eager fans at Shotwell Stadium in Abilene, Texas. More than just an impressive feat, this kick represented a remarkable journey and a commitment to excellence that reverberated far beyond that fateful day.
A Historic Day at Shotwell Stadium
The atmosphere at Shotwell Stadium was electric as the Wildcats faced East Texas State on homecoming weekend. Fans, students, alumni, and faculty filled the stands, with anticipation rippling through the crowd. They knew something special was about to occur, especially as Johansson had been glowing in warm-ups, making kicks from distances beyond the conventional.
The Run-Up to the Kick
Just minutes before Johansson’s record-breaking kick, Tony Franklin of Texas A&M made headlines by kicking a 65-yard field goal against Baylor. This news reached Johansson, who felt a surge of adrenaline, recognizing the magnitude of the occasion. With the Wildcats struggling on offense, head coach Wally Bullington decided it was time to attempt a long field goal, showing faith in Johansson despite the limited opportunities he had experienced thus far in college football.
Breaking the Record
As Johansson lined up for his historical attempt from the Wildcats’ 41-yard line, the conditions seemed perfect. The wind was at his back, and the crowd fell eerily silent. Johansson remembered his wife, April, recounting how quiet it was just before the kick, as if everyone held their breath in anticipation. With a powerful swing of his leg, the ball soared through the air. The impact was described by onlookers as sounding like a shotgun blast, a testament to the impressive strength behind his kick.
Validation From Officials
The kick was not only successful; it was so convincing that officials remarked it could have easily made it from 75 yards. The joy that erupted in the stands contrasted sharply with the disbelief among some who questioned the legitimacy of the kick. Johansson, however, credited his ability, training, and a little bit of luck for the incredible moment.
Johansson’s Journey to Football
Ove Johansson’s path to the football field is as fascinating as his record kick. Born in Sweden, Johansson’s first love was soccer. He migrated to the United States in 1972, initially pursuing his soccer dreams. After several changes and moving to Texas, he caught the eye of April, his future wife, during a soccer game. Deciding to forego his soccer scholarship for a chance at love, Johansson enrolled at Abilene Christian, where he tried out for the football team, ultimately surprising everyone by securing a spot as a kicker.
A Stellar Career
Prior to the historic field goal, Johansson had only attempted four field goals in college. However, his natural talent and determination propelled him to excel. After the 1976 season, he was drafted by the Houston Oilers in the 12th round of the NFL Draft, becoming the first Swedish-born player in the league and, at 28 years old, the oldest player ever to be drafted at the time.
Legacy and Impact
Johansson passed away on September 30, 2023, but his legacy continues to inspire aspiring athletes. Not only did he mentor young kickers in his community after retirement, but he also remained a passionate follower of football and soccer. Those who heard him speak of that October day noted a twinkle in his eye, an unwavering fondness for the moment that changed his life.
Which Record Still Stands?
Johansson’s record kick, though achieved in what was then the NAIA, remains a significant milestone in the history of football. Each kick that follows aims not just to secure points but to emulate the great moments that define the sport, showcasing the incredible range of talent among college athletes.
The Evolution of Kicking in College Football
Field goals have always been critical in the game of football. The ability of a kicker to convert long-distance attempts can alter a team’s fortunes significantly. Over the years, numerous kickers have attempted to match or break Johansson’s record, with remarkable kicks recorded since then. Here’s a look at some of the other longest field goals in college football history:
- Tom Odle, Fort Hayes State (1988): 62 yards
- Joe Williams, Wichita State (1978): 67 yards
- Steve Little, Arkansas (1977): 62 yards
- Martin Gramatica, Kansas State (1998): 65 yards
Reflecting on a Legacy
As college football continues to evolve with advances in athlete training and conditioning, Ove Johansson’s remarkable journey from a soccer player in Sweden to a record-setting kicker in Texas serves as a powerful reminder of how passion and opportunity can intersect to create legendary moments. Fans of the sport continue to share stories of his kick, celebrating not just his record but the spirit of determination and love for the game that he represented.
While records may eventually fade, the stories and inspirations they create endure. For now, as football enthusiasts reminisce about the long kicks of the past, Ove Johansson remains an unforgettable figure in college football history.
If you want to learn about the longest field goals and the history of college football, you can check out the NCAA official page.
