Brkic, a junior from Chardon, Ohio, leads the nation in long‐distance field goals, connecting five times from at least 50 yards out. He got off to a quick start, with three of them in the season opener, tying the all‐time FBS record for 50+ FGs in a single game. He connected from 56 yards in each of the first two games of the year, marking the longest Sooner field goals in over 40 years. In addition to his 17‐for‐23 FG campaign, he is perfect on 48 PATs, extending his career‐long streak to 150‐for‐150.

Mike Nugent converted 20 of 23 field goal attempts during the 2004 season (one was blocked) and led the nation in 50-yard field goals with five. In the win over Marshall, his 55-yarder as time ran out provided OSU with a 24-21 win. In a 22-14 victory at North Carolina State, he tied a school record with five field goals. He was also a perfect 27-of-27 in the point after touchdown (PAT) department and had 34 touchbacks on 55 kickoffs. The Lou Groza Award is the 30th major individual award won by an Ohio State player.