BYU Student Kicks 33-Yard Goal to Win $3 Million
Carter Smith successfully hit a field goal while barefoot during a College GameDay contest.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Football
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BYU student Carter Smith secured a $3 million prize after successfully kicking a 33-yard field goal during a College GameDay broadcast. Smith, who previously played soccer, switched to kicking barefoot to secure the win.
Why it matters
The prize was funded by equal contributions from Pat McAfee, Ryan Smith, and Ryan Sweeney. The win provides a significant payout, though the student expects to owe approximately $700,000 in taxes.
The contest awarded a $3 million prize for a 33-yard field goal, with each of the three sponsors contributing $1 million. The winner projects an estimated tax liability of $700,000 on the winnings.
The players
Carter Smith
He is the BYU student who secured the $3 million prize during the contest.
Pat McAfee
He is a sports media personality who contributed $1 million toward the prize pool.
Ryan Smith
He is a sponsor who contributed $1 million to the field goal contest prize.
Ryan Sweeney
He is a sponsor who provided $1 million in funding for the prize money.
The details
After initially missing a kick while wearing shoes, Smith succeeded on his second attempt barefoot. Show organizers selected Smith for the contest after another candidate was deemed ineligible for lacking a physical ID.
Timeline
October 16-17, 2026: Student camped out for the show broadcast.
October 17, 2026, 4:00 a.m.: Attendees entered the show pit area.
October 17, 2026, 8:30 a.m.: Contestants called for the field goal contest.
October 19, 2026: Student described the event to media.
Season Trajectory
This event follows the pattern set by the College GameDay broadcast of integrating high-stakes promotional challenges into live programming to drive fan engagement. It marks a departure from standard pre-game coverage by elevating a participant to the center of the show's narrative.
The contest outcome results in a $3 million payout for the participant, which requires accounting for a $700,000 tax liability. The event was limited to a group of 300 ticket holders present in the pit area.
The takeaway
Large promotional prizes often carry significant tax implications that winners must prepare for immediately. Future contestants should ensure they have proper physical identification on hand to remain eligible for such opportunities.
Further reading
For more on campus traditions and sports events, visit the Football section.
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