Cam Little Makes NFL History with 68-Yard Field Goal
Jacksonville Jaguars kicker Cam Little etched his name into NFL history on Sunday by successfully converting a 68-yard field goal, the longest ever in a regular-season game. This remarkable feat occurred as the first half concluded during the Jaguars' 30-29 overtime victory against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium.
Little's record-breaking kick surpassed the previous mark of 66 yards, set by Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens in 2021. The 22-year-old kicker's achievement not only narrowed the Jaguars' halftime deficit to 6-3 but also provided a significant momentum boost that contributed to their eventual win.
"You kick it long enough and you kick it straight enough, it's gonna go in," Little said postgame. "Me and Logan [Cooke] kind of had like a one-on-one right before the kick, and I said, 'I'm going to hit this ball as hard as I can.' Usually when I tell myself that, I find success."
The game began with a slow offensive start from both teams. The Raiders took a 6-0 lead late in the second quarter with a 7-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Geno Smith to tight end Brock Bowers. However, kicker Daniel Carlson missed the extra point attempt. With 35 seconds remaining in the half, the Jaguars advanced the ball to midfield, setting the stage for Little's historic field goal as time expired.
Little, a sixth-round pick from the University of Arkansas in the 2024 NFL Draft, had previously demonstrated his leg strength by making a 70-yard field goal during a preseason game earlier this year. However, that kick did not count toward official NFL records. His previous career-long in regular-season play was a 59-yard field goal against the Detroit Lions in 2024.
The second half saw increased offensive activity from both teams. Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who completed 23 of 34 passes for 220 yards, added two rushing touchdowns, including a 7-yard run early in the fourth quarter that gave Jacksonville a 13-9 lead. Running back Travis Etienne contributed 84 rushing yards on 22 carries.
The Raiders responded with strong performances from Smith, who threw for 284 yards and four touchdowns, and Bowers, who caught 12 passes for 127 yards and three touchdowns. Bowers' third touchdown reception in overtime brought the Raiders within one point. Opting for a two-point conversion to secure the win, Smith's pass was deflected by Jaguars defensive lineman DaVon Hamilton, sealing the victory for Jacksonville.
"Hats off to [Hamilton]," Smith said. "He made the play."
This victory snapped a two-game losing streak for the Jaguars, improving their record to 5-3 and bolstering their playoff prospects. The Raiders, now 2-6, have lost six of their last seven games.
Little's achievement highlights the evolving capabilities of NFL kickers, pushing the boundaries of what is considered possible in the sport. His performance serves as an inspiration for young athletes, demonstrating the rewards of dedication and skill development.
As the NFL season progresses, Little's record-setting kick will be remembered as a defining moment, not only for the Jaguars but for the league as a whole.