FSU Football Kicker Ryan Fitzgerald Shocks Nation By Kicking 59-Yard Field Goal

There wasn’t much to be desired from Florida State’s offense in the first half of its season opener against Georgia Tech. The Seminoles went into halftime tied at 14-all with the Yellow Jackets.

Florida State scored just one touchdown in the first half, with Ryan Fitzgerald kicking two field goals.

It was DJ Uiagalelei’s first time playing for the Seminoles, and he completed 12 of his 14 passes for 96 yards, though Florida State primarily ran the ball and executed sweeps rather than taking shots forward or stretching the field vertically.

The first drive was incredible as Florida State overwhelmed the Yellow Jackets using a variety of personnel. The offense struggled after that, but relied on Fitzgerald to close out drives.

READ MORE: Florida State vs. Georgia Tech: Pregame Injury Updates for the Seminoles and Yellow Jackets

Fitzgerald’s first field goal was impressive, a 52-yarder. To end the half, trailing 14-11, the Seminoles kicker hit an insane 59-yard field goal — good for a career-high.

Ryan Fitzgerald has now made field goals of 52 and 59 yards👀

photo.twitter.com/MZ5ghM1F80

— PFF College (@PFF_College) August 24, 2024

Of course, there’s still plenty to be desired for Florida State’s offense and with a few good plays they could get back into a rhythm in the second half, but trailing 14-8, the team would have been in a much worse position had Fitzgerald not converted both field goals.

Fitzgerald’s second conversion also marked the second-longest field goal in school history. Social media was abuzz with energy after he made the kick.

Ryan Fitzgerald after STARTING a 59-YD FG 🔥 photo.twitter.com/RbB5WJlrFv

— Bleacher Report CFB (@BR_CFB) August 24, 2024

The Seminoles’ offense needs to support Fitzgerald and find a way to move the ball downfield consistently. So far, the team has used five different running backs, which is a great way to wear down a defense. The passing game needs to do the same, and Uiagalelei has primarily passed the ball or tried short targets.

READ MORE: ESPN’s College GameDay Predicts Florida State vs. Georgia Tech

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