Vanderbilt student Tyler Hwang, a sophomore double majoring in chemical engineering and economics, nailed a 33-yard field goal to win Pat McAfee’s weekly kicking contest on ESPN’s College Gameday, which Vanderbilt hosted on campus October 25.
In addition to winning the $500,000 award, Hwang also receives $250,000 for the charity of his choice.
A lifelong soccer player from Dover, Massachusetts, who spent time as a kicker for his high school football team, Hwang said he was confident making the kick but in somewhat disbelief about his winnings.
“It’s just so exciting, I can’t believe it,” he said after the kick.
McAfee’s contest gives an audience member a chance to attempt a 33-yard field goal for life-changing money. Most contestants get two opportunities to put the ball through the uprights. But because of Hwang’s background, McAfee gave him one shot, which was all he needed. Hwang, who said he’s made kicks from 53 yards, hit the 33-yarder with plenty of leg to spare.
“Tyler Hwang hit the biggest ball we have seen,” McAfee said.
Hwang’s phenomenal kick is just one example of the storied success Vanderbilt has been having both in athletics and academically.
In 2020, Vanderbilt kicker Sarah Fuller made history as the first woman to score in a Power Five football game. Last year, the Commodores beat No. 1 University of Alabama’s Crimson Tide in a historic 40-35 upset.
Last month, Bloomberg.com noted that Vanderbilt is one of only two universities that excel in both academics and football, with consistently sold-out student sections. Vanderbilt also had nearly 50,000 applicants for the Class of 2029.
Hwang told “Inside Edition” that some of the money he won will go to his parents who helped him with his college tuition. “I’m super grateful for everything they’ve given me,” he said.
Watch Hwang’s golden kick on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQPMwlGk3y7/?igsh=eDNvejhjMmQ3aWlyt
Read more from The Vanderbilt Hustler: https://vanderbilthustler.com/2025/10/25/vanderbilt-student-tyler-hwang-wins-500000-in-pat-mcafee-kicking-contest/