A Fresh Face on the Watch List
Texas senior place‑kicker Gianni Spetic has been selected for the preseason watch list for the Lou Groza Award, an honor that celebrates the nation’s top college kicker each year. The announcement underscores his emergence as a leading candidate heading into the upcoming season.
Spetic’s inclusion marks the fourth straight year that a Texas Longhorns kicker has appeared on the award’s preseason list, following the achievements of Mason Shipley and Bert Auburn in recent cycles. The continuity reflects the program’s sustained investment in special‑teams talent.
Four Years of Longhorn Excellence
The streak began with Shipley’s recognition in 2025 and continued with Auburn’s back‑to‑back honors in 2023 and 2024, setting a benchmark for future candidates.
A Transfer With Immediate Impact
Spetic arrived in Austin after a three‑year stint at Memphis, where he logged 39 career appearances across three seasons. His transition to Texas was finalized in spring 2026, and he quickly integrated into the Longhorns’ special‑teams unit.
Statistical Highlights
During his final season at Memphis, Spetic converted 15 of 20 field‑goal attempts, posting a 75 % success rate. He was perfect from 49 extra‑point tries, contributed a career‑high 94 points, and capped the year with a 50‑yard field goal that earned him the American Conference’s Special Teams Player of the Week in October 2025.
Award Timeline and Expectations
The Lou Groza Award will narrow its field to 20 semifinalists on November 17. A panel of coaches and experts will then select three finalists, with the ultimate winner to be revealed on December 10 at the Home Depot College Football Awards Show on ESPN.
As the countdown to the semifinalist announcement begins, Spetic remains focused on translating his preseason recognition into on‑field performance that could propel the Longhorns to new heights.