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.

Alexis Serna was an impressive 23 of 28 in field goals for the season. That combined with his perfect 32 of 32 in extra point attempts made him the NCAA Div-1A kicking leader in points with 101 on the season. Highlights of Serna’s season included leading Oregon State to an 18-10 victory over Washington by converting on six field goals, in windy and rainy conditions. Serna also kicked a game winning field goal with 1:03 remaining the in the game to defeat Boise State, 30-27. By seasons end Serna was the NCAA active career leader in field goal percentage at 83.3.