The pressure is mounting on Ohio State kicker Jayden Fielding as the Buckeyes head into the Rose Bowl, but despite a series of recent setbacks, Fielding remains unwavering in his confidence. With the game potentially coming down to a last-minute field goal, all eyes will be on the Buckeyes’ kicker, who faced struggles in key moments this season.
Fielding missed two crucial attempts in Ohio State’s heartbreaking 13-10 loss to Michigan, including a 38-yard try and a 34-yarder that could have shifted the outcome. His troubles continued in the College Football Playoff opener against Tennessee, where a long 56-yard attempt in harsh conditions fell short. Yet, with Ohio State securing a comfortable 42-17 victory, the focus quickly turned to the upcoming clash against No. 1 Oregon, where Fielding may need to come through in a high-stakes situation.
Despite the recent bumps in the road, Fielding remains resolute. “I have confidence in myself,” he said, crediting his teammates and coaches for their continued belief in him. “Knowing that they trust me really helps me stay focused.”
Though the season hasn’t been his best, Fielding is channeling his struggles into motivation, constantly working to improve. “Every game is a lesson,” he reflected. “I’m grinding to get better and applying those lessons to my routine.”
Earlier in the season, Fielding showed his reliability, hitting 9 of 10 field goals in Ohio State’s first 11 games, including a crucial 46-yard kick in a tense road win at Penn State. While he hasn’t attempted kicks longer than 47 yards, he’s been a steady presence for the Buckeyes, particularly in high-pressure moments, even when things haven’t gone perfectly.
Next season, Ohio State may bring in competition to challenge Fielding’s role, but for now, he’s fully focused on the Rose Bowl. To prepare for the pressure of a game-winning kick, Fielding has been simulating high-stakes situations during practice, including practicing with crowd noise and the intensity of game-time pressure.
Fielding is no stranger to the drama of a field goal deciding a big game. Three years ago, Noah Ruggles nailed the game-winning field goal in the Rose Bowl against Utah. Ruggles, who’s also experienced the sting of missing a crucial kick in the CFP semifinals, has been a mentor to Fielding throughout the season, offering valuable advice and perspective.
“I’ve talked to him a few months ago. He’s been a great resource, providing a lot of wisdom,” Fielding shared, drawing on Ruggles’ experience as he faces his own challenges.
With the Rose Bowl on the horizon, Jayden Fielding is more determined than ever to prove he can deliver when it matters most. Whether he’s called upon for a clutch field goal or just to keep the momentum going, Fielding’s mindset remains sharp and focused as he prepares for the next big moment in his career.
