Student Won $1.5 Million After Barefoot Field Goal

A University of Tennessee student secured a major prize after successfully kicking a field goal on live television.

Updated on Sept. 26, 2026 in Football

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A University of Tennessee student won $1.5 million after successfully kicking a barefoot field goal during a College GameDay broadcast in Knoxville. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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University of Tennessee sophomore Colby Lamb successfully kicked a field goal barefoot during a College GameDay broadcast in Knoxville. The achievement earned Lamb $1 million in prize money and triggered a $500,000 donation to the Pat Summitt Foundation.

Why it matters

The successful kick provided a significant financial windfall for both the student and a prominent philanthropic organization. This high-profile event drew national attention to the University of Tennessee campus during the broadcast.

The successful kick resulted in a $1.5 million payout, consisting of $1 million for Colby Lamb and a $500,000 donation to the Pat Summitt Foundation.

The players

Colby Lamb

He is a sophomore at the University of Tennessee and a 2025 graduate of Tennessee High School.

Pat Summitt Foundation

This charitable organization supports research and care for individuals fighting Alzheimer's disease.

The details

Colby Lamb, a 2025 graduate of Tennessee High School, executed the kick while participating in a contest during the College GameDay program. The sophomore student made the goal without wearing shoes.

Timeline

  1. September 26, 2026: The field goal event occurred in Knoxville.

  2. September 26, 2026: The article reporting the event was published.

Season Trajectory

This event mirrors the excitement of the Dr Pepper Tuition Giveaway field goal challenge by using high-stakes kicking contests to engage fans. The unexpected payout marks a viral milestone in the collegiate football broadcast landscape.

The success of the kick guarantees an immediate $500,000 boost to the Pat Summitt Foundation's funding. For students attending future broadcasts, this event establishes a high-value benchmark for potential contest winnings.

The takeaway

Large-scale television promotions continue to offer unique financial opportunities for college students. Participants should prepare for high-pressure environments when attempting skills-based challenges for major prizes.

Further reading

For more coverage on the university's gridiron activities, visit the Football section.

Source note: This article includes information reported by WJHL.

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