Football

Nico Radicic: The Reliable Heart of Indiana’s Special Teams

A flawless extra‑point record and clutch field goals have made the junior kicker the linchpin of the Hoosiers' pursuit of a college football record and a Lou Groza Award.

Nico Radicic, Indiana University’s placekicker, has become a cornerstone of the Hoosiers’ special‑teams unit despite limited snap count. Since his arrival in 2024, he has converted every extra‑point attempt, boasting a flawless 156‑of‑156 record, and has been dependable on field goals, converting 28 of 30 tries with a 93 percent success rate.

Coach's Confidence

Head coach Curt Cignetti has voiced unwavering trust in the junior kicker, describing him as “money in the bank.” That confidence is reflected in the coach’s decision to rely on Radicic in the high‑pressure moments that define close games.

Radicic’s accuracy extends well beyond the typical range; he says he feels comfortable launching field goals from anywhere past the 50‑yard line. With two years of eligibility remaining, he aims to push his career field‑goal attempts past 45 while maintaining a field‑goal percentage above 90 percent, a feat that could rewrite the college record books and earn him a spot on the Lou Groza Award watch list, which he already made in August.

The ultimate test came in the 2026 National Championship, where a decisive 35‑yard field goal secured a 27‑21 victory for Indiana over their opponent, underscoring his clutch pedigree. As the Hoosiers prepare to open the 2026 campaign against North Texas on September 5 at noon Eastern, Radicic’s blend of precision, experience, and confidence positions him as a pivotal piece in the team’s quest for further titles.

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