Oregon Kicker 'Ice Man' Delivers Under Pressure

Oregon Ducks kicker Gage Hurych has emerged as a reliable force, maintaining a perfect record through the team's challenging start to the season. As of October 23, 2026, Hurych has successfully converted all nine of his field goal attempts and all nineteen of his extra-point tries in his first six games. This impressive accuracy has earned him recognition, including the Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week award for his crucial role in the Ducks' Week 7 victory over the Nebraska Cornhuskers.

Coach Dan Lanning highlighted Hurych's development and praised his ability to capitalize on opportunities. Special teams coordinator Joe Lorig, recalling Hurych being nicknamed 'Ice Man' early in his career, emphasized his consistent mental approach. Lorig compared Hurych's composure to that of NFL kickers Jake Elliott and Zane Gonzalez, noting the difficulty of replicating game-day pressure in practice. Hurych, a third-year player from West Linn, Oregon, is now the starting kicker after two seasons playing behind Atticus Sappington. His consistent kicking has been vital for the Ducks, providing a steady stream of points even as the offense navigates challenges in scoring against opponents.