Nate Kaeding began the 2002 season by making 19 field goals in a row, and finished off his Lou Groza Award-winning campaign by making 21 field goals on 24 attempts. Kaeding set a new Iowa record by converting on 57 extra points, besting the old mark by six, and his 120 total points is the most ever in a single season in the extensive history of the Big Ten Conference for a kicker. The model of consistency, Kaeding made two or more field goals in seven of the Hawkeye’s 13 games. He also put on display his ability to connect on kicks from long-range – Kaeding made eight field goals from at least 40 yards away, three of which were from more than 50 yards out.

Kai Forbath, a junior from Pacific Palisades, California, enjoyed a successful season making 26 of his 29 field goal attempts which was second in the nation and was a perfect 23 of 23 from inside fifty yards. He also connected on 3 of 6 attempts of fifty yards or farther and kicked four field goals in a game twice this season. His 283 career points rank fifth all-time on the Bruins scoring list, while his 9 field goals from 50 yards or farther are a UCLA record.