BYU Student Wins $3 Million in ESPN Field Goal Contest
Carter Smith, a 2023 Underwood High School graduate and BYU student, made a 33-yard field goal during ESPN's College GameDay while wearing a Spider-Man costume. The prize began at $100,000 but grew to $3 million after Ryan Smith and Ryan Sweeney each added $1 million. Smith missed his first attempt before converting his second, and half of Sweeney's contribution was donated to charity.
Carter Smith graduated from Underwood High School in 2023 and now studies biology at BYU. During ESPN's College GameDay, he wore a Spider-Man costume and was chosen from the crowd for Pat McAfee's "Kicking is Easy" challenge. The kick was 33 yards, initially worth $100,000.
Ryan Smith, who owns the Utah Jazz and Utah Mammoth, and his business partner Ryan Sweeney each pledged $1 million, raising the total to $3 million. Smith missed his first try, then converted the second. Half of Sweeney's donation went to charity. Later, BYU beat Notre Dame and stayed undefeated.
The viral kick could bring extra attention to College GameDay, BYU, and fan contests, potentially drawing casual viewers and boosting Smith's public profile. Charities receiving part of Sweeney's contribution may gain tangible support, while students and athletes might see such promotions as entertainment or opportunity. It may also prompt event organizers and donors to consider larger prizes, though the spectacle could raise questions about money's growing role in college sports.