Jonathan Nichols had a tremendous 2003 season, as he led the Rebels with 124 points to set a new Ole Miss season scoring record, bettering the previous mark of 102 by RB Deuce McAllister (1997-2000) in 2000. Jonathan also led the SEC and ranked ninth nationally in scoring, averaging 9.5 points per game and led the SEC in field goal percentage (86.2), having made 25-of-29 attempts. He was 3-of-4 on field goals from 50 yards or more to become the first kicker in school history to hit three field goals of 50 yards or more in a season. Ranked second in the SEC and fourth in the nation in field goals made per game (1.92). His 25 field goals also set a new Ole Miss season record.

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.