MAC Football: Graham Nicholson Wins Lou Groza Award

The Miami University Redhawks are at the tail end of a storybook season that saw them win their first MAC championship since 2019. The program added to its

© Lon Horwedel-USA TODAY Sports

The Miami University Redhawks are at the tail end of a storybook season that saw them win their first MAC championship since 2019. The program added to its trophy case on Friday when Miami placekicker Graham Nicholson was announced as the winner of the 2023 Lou Groza Award.

Nicholson is the first player from a MAC school to win the award, given annually to best kicker in FBS.

Nicholson, a junior, made at least one field goal in every game this year. Nicholson made 25 consecutive field goals in the 2023 season, tied for the most ever in FBS. After the MAC title game, Nicholson's totals were up to 26 makes on 27 attempts for field goals and 35 makes on 36 attempts on PATs. His longest make was from 52 yards out. His only field goal miss came in the MAC title game. Nicholson was still named Special Teams Player of the game. 

Alabama's Will Reichard and UNLV's Jose Pizano were also finalists for the award. 

Nicholson entered the transfer portal earlier this week, but announced his intention to return to Miami for the 2024 season earlier Friday. 

Miami will face Appalachian State in the Cure Bowl in Orlando later this month.