Northern Illinois pulled off a nifty trick play in the first half of the Camellia Bowl Saturday, faking a field goal to hit their kicker with a touchdown pass.
Most fans have seen those plays before, but it’s not often you see a kicker score from 32 yards out after flashing some serious speed to outrun the defense.
NIU kicker Kanon Woodill lined up for a 49-yard field goal attempt in the second quarter against the Arkansas State Red Wolves. After the snap, Woodill followed through as if he were kicking, but holder Tom Foley pitched the ball to him.
Woodill did the rest, racing 32 yards for the touchdown.
KICKER SCORES 32-YD TD ON A FAKE FG 😱 pic.twitter.com/g4I0LEVP6Z
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) December 23, 2023
ESPN play-by-play announcer Courtney Lyle certainly liked the play.
“Go Kanon, to the end zone! Kicker’s got speed!” Lyle called on the play.
So Woodill is officially credited with the touchdown reception, and Foley, the Huskies punter, gets a touchdown pass.
Fans appreciated the creativity, and Woodill’s speed, although some pointed out NIU might have gotten away with a hold on the play.
We love a good fake field goal touchdown in bowl season!
Northern Illinois kicker Kanon Woodill has WHEELS.pic.twitter.com/TSlQtbDAGG
— DraftKings (@DraftKings) December 23, 2023
After the 32-yard touchdown “pass” on the fake field goal, Northern Illinois holder Tom Foley’s passer rating is 698.8.
— Thomas Ashworth (@ThomasAshworth0) December 23, 2023
Reminds me of Garo Yepremian. Kinda
— Nine Foot Couch (@9FootCouch) December 23, 2023
It’s a lot easier to score when your blockers get away with holding! Nice speed though
— Sunset Chaser (@DocCupp14) December 23, 2023
What the hell 💀
— Chris (@SeaweedsRevenge) December 23, 2023
Northern Illinois is NOT messing around in this bowl game
A 2-point attempt [failed], onside kick [failed], but the FAKE FIELD GOAL TOUCHDOWN SUCCEEDS!
— Spiky Dash 💙💚💜 (@SpikyStormDash) December 23, 2023
[ESPN]
About Arthur Weinstein
Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.