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ESPN’s College GameDay kicking challenge has increased its prize pool for the 2026 season after contestants claimed $2.7 million during 2025. Back for a fourth season, the live on-air contest has already awarded about $2.2 million through its first three episodes.
What the contest offers
Launched by analyst and former NFL kicker Pat McAfee in 2023, the segment gives one fan each week the chance to make a 33-yard field goal live on television in exchange for tuition help or larger payouts. This year’s boost in prize money comes in part because Home Depot agreed to match McAfee’s contributions, increasing the potential winnings for successful kickers.
College kickers have taken home $2.2 million from Pat McAfee’s kicking contest this season
Wisconsin loses 41-13 to No. 4 Notre Dame at Lambeau Field
Who can try—and how they are picked
Eligibility is limited: fans must be at least 18 years old, among the first 300 people on-site for the broadcast, and not current or former college athletes. Contestants must not be under the influence of alcohol and are required to wear sneakers or cleats. Names are entered into a raffle roughly 30 minutes before the show; official contest rules are posted on ESPN’s website.
Early-season results
The first three weeks provide a clear snapshot of the stakes and the volatility of the challenge.
Week 1 — Baton Rouge (Clemson vs. LSU): Freshman Bruce Morello missed both attempts and left without a payout.
Week 2 — Austin (Ohio State vs. Texas): Freshman Connor Kacena-Merrell converted his second try and was awarded $1.2 million. Actor Matthew McConaughey and host Kirk Herbstreit each pledged $100,000, contributions that were included in that total.
Week 3 — Oxford (LSU vs. Ole Miss): Ole Miss freshman James Whitehead, a finance major, made his first attempt and won the $1 million prize. His winnings were split evenly between McAfee and Home Depot, with each providing $500,000.
Why the stunt sticks with viewers
What began as a short-lived novelty has become a highlight of the program, combining high stakes, live tension, and the prospect of meaningful financial help for students. Producers have leaned into that spectacle: in December 2024 the GameDay crew transported McAfee’s goalposts overnight from South Bend to Columbus during a two-episode, 24-hour College Football Playoff edition of the show.
With larger matching contributions this season, the challenge will likely remain a major talking point as College GameDay tours the fall schedule. For fans, the draw is simple: one clean kick can change a student’s financial picture on live national television.
