IU senior kicker Griffin Oakes was named one of 20 semifinalists Thursday for the Lou Groza Award, which is given to the best kicker in college football.
Oakes, in his fourth season as IU's kicker, has made 11 of 12 field goal attempts through eight games this season. He is also 25 of 26 on extra points. Both of Oakes' misses came on blocked attempts.
His field goal success rate of 91.7 percent leads the Big Ten and is tied for third in the FBS. The 2015 Big Ten Kicker of the Year has enjoyed a bounce back season after making just 16-of-26 field goals last season.
Earlier this season, Oakes set IU's program record for made field goals and now has 64 for his career. Against then-No. 17 Michigan, Oakes hit a 46-yard field goal as regulation expired and sent the game into overtime. He is a perfect 10-of-10 from inside 50 yards this year.
Three finalists for the Lou Groza Award will be named Nov. 21, and the winner will be announced at the College Football Awards Show on ESPN on Dec. 7.
Jake Thomer
