From the moment he stepped into Camp Randall Stadium, transfer kicker Nathanial Vakos has been a star for Wisconsin football. Going into Homecoming weekend ranked first in the Big Ten West, the Badgers hope to keep this momentum going.
Using his foot skills from years of playing soccer, Vakos picked up football the summer of eighth grade and quickly developed a love for the game. From there, Vakos continued to excel and show great potential for the future. After missing his first extra point attempt during his freshman year of high school, Vakos set a national record by making the next 260 consecutively.
Before transferring to Wisconsin, Vakos had an impressive debut at Ohio University. As a Bobcat, Vakos played in all 13 games, had a career-high 55-yard field goal, made 19-of-23 field goals and 48-of-49 extra points.
Vakos received more than 10 scholarship offers upon entering the transfer portal after his rookie season with the Bobcats. Ultimately, the quality of the coaching staff, facilities, level of play and education available led him to commit to Wisconsin.
The Badgers have been able to rely on Vakos for a consistently strong performance thus far. He currently sits at 7-of-7 on field goals and is the only kicker in the conference to successfully convert all field goals with at least five attempts.
With high stakes in the Big Ten opener against Purdue on Sept. 22., Vakos rose to the occasion. Vakos made three field goals from 38, 22 and 48 yards, and he made three extra-point attempts in a performance that earned him Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week. He was also put on the preseason watchlist for the Lou Groza Award, which recognizes college football's top placekicker.
Coming to the Badgers with commitment, drive and a powerful leg, Vakos has already exceeded expectations and set the precedent for a remarkable season.
