Michigan kicker Dominic Zvada connected on a game-winning field goal in the final seconds of a 24-22 win over the Northwestern Wildcats on Saturday. In addition to saving the Wolverines from a season-altering
loss, Zvada’s clutch kick could provide a confidence boost for the talented kicker that has struggled with consistency this year.
“The team has a lot of confidence in him. I’ve seen him make it so I trust him. I’m so happy for him and for our team,” Michigan head coach Sherrone Moore said following the win. “It’s difficult when you’re on national TV and there’s just three seconds on the clock, but I saw him talking to one of their guys and I knew that he was going to bang it through.”
The walk-off field goal kept Michigan in the College Football Playoff conversation. Despite missing two field goals earlier in the game, Zvada came through when it mattered most and Moore thinks the game-winner could revitalize his kicker just in time for the last two games.
“I can imagine the exuberance and happiness that he had after that kick,” Moore said. “The kid works his tail off to do what he did on Saturday, and that was the first game-winning, time-expiring kick he’s ever had. He’s just done an unbelievable job, and hopefully it gives him a lot of confidence. He should have confidence in his ability and the team has confidence in him.”
Following a record-setting 2024 campaign, Zvada entered 2025 with the goal of being the best kicker in the nation. However, he hasn’t been able to live up to those lofty expectations, converting just 11-of-17 field goal attempts, including 1-for-2 from 50+ yards. In 2024, he was 21-for-22 overall and a perfect 7-for-7 from 50 yards and beyond.
There is no doubt Michigan needs Zvada to play at his best and be consistent down the stretch. With two games remaining in the regular season, the Wolverines have a chance to beat Ohio State, reach the Big Ten title game and secure a spot in the CFP. If Michigan is to accomplish those goals, Zvada will definitely be a vital ingredient.
“I called him last night to talk to him, and his dad texted me about trusting people when they go through adversity,” Moore said. “I have trust in him because of what we all see in practice. I remember I just looked at his eyes when we were going on the drive, he just gave me a nod and I knew he was going to make that kick. I have full confidence in him.”
Special teams played a major role in a 13-10 win over rival Ohio State last year; Zvada went 2-for-2 on field goals, highlighted by a game-winner in the final minute. In order to pull off a fifth straight win over the Buckeyes, he will have to put his inconsistent season behind him and use the game-winning field goal at Wrigley Field as a confidence boost moving forward.
