Jaguars’ Ethan Little Sets NFL Record with 68-Yard Field Goal in Dramatic Win
In an unforgettable moment for NFL history, Jacksonville Jaguars kicker Ethan Little blasted a record-breaking 68-yard field goal to secure a 27-24 victory over the Houston Texans. The kick, which barely cleared the crossbar as time expired, shattered the previous NFL record of 66 yards and sent EverBank Stadium into a frenzy.
The Kick That Made History
With the game tied 24-24 and only 4 seconds left, Jaguars coach Doug Pederson bypassed a Hail Mary and put his faith in rookie kicker Ethan Little. The seventh-round pick from Georgia had already made a 55-yarder earlier in the game, but a 68-yard attempt seemed nearly impossible—especially in Jacksonville’s humid conditions.
- Perfect execution: The snap and hold were flawless, and Little connected from the Jaguars’ 42-yard line.
- Nail-biting suspense: The ball hung in the air before barely clearing the uprights, triggering an official review.
- Record confirmed: Once upheld, Little was mobbed by teammates as the crowd erupted.
“I just swung as hard as I could and prayed,” Little said post-game. “When I saw it go through, it was surreal.”
Why This Record Is So Remarkable
Little’s kick wasn’t just long—it defied NFL kicking logic:
– Previous record-holders (Matt Prater in 2013, Justin Tucker in 2021) achieved their kicks in Denver’s high-altitude thin air, which aids distance.
– Little’s kick came at sea level in Jacksonville, making the feat even more impressive.
– Special teams coordinator Heath Farwell revealed Little had been attempting 70+ yard kicks in warm-ups, but doing it in a game-winning situation was unprecedented.
Texans’ Crushing Defeat
The Texans thought they had forced overtime after rookie QB C.J. Stroud led a gutsy 75-yard TD drive with just 1:12 left. But Little’s heroics crushed their hopes.
“Sometimes, you just have to acknowledge greatness,” Texans coach DeMeco Ryans admitted.
What’s Next for the Jaguars?
The victory pushes Jacksonville to 5-2, strengthening their AFC South lead. Little, once a training camp long shot, is now a Jacksonville legend—and the Jaguars are proving to be a serious playoff contender.
As for the record? Little joked, “I’ll try for 70 next time.” After this performance, who would doubt him?
Final Thought:
Ethan Little’s 68-yard miracle isn’t just a record—it’s an instant NFL classic and a defining moment of the 2023 season.
— NextMinuteNews
