Atticus "Automaticus" Sappington has broken the Oregon kicker curse forever, and Duck fans didn't even have to sacrifice a live rooster.
Sappington had one of the most clutch games in Duck history by a kicker, in impossibly difficult conditions. He hit 3-3 field goals, from 46, 40 and 39 yards in swirling winds and driving rain, one at the end of each half, including the game-winning with seven seconds to play.
In a game that ended 18-16, that made him one of the team's most valuable players, although Noah Whittington, Brandon Finney and Teitum Tuioti would have a place on that metaphorical medal stand as well.
Credit too to snapper Luke Basso and holder James Ferguson-Reynolds who were flawless, and protection that held up against an Iowa team notorious for big plays in special teams.
Sappington and Ferguson-Reynolds did a good job also (along with their coverage teams) of negating dangerous Hawkeye returner Kaden Wetjen, limited to one kickoff return for 21 yards, no punt returns, one punt downed at the 7 and one of 52 yards.
"Can’t say enough good things about Atticus Sappington. You talk about ice in your veins in a moment like that. Several big kicks," Dan Lanning said.
Take another look at Atticus Sappington’s 39-yard FG that sealed the deal for @oregonfootball in Iowa City 👀 pic.twitter.com/EfSTqO2jXu
— Big Ten Football (@B1Gfootball) November 9, 2025
Sappington told reporters, "When we really got the ball in the last two minutes, I knew it was going to be like a quick 1-2 punch where they were going to drive down and get me in range. I know it's all out there for me to go and get it, and that moment was made for me and I truly do really believe that."
Like many of the Oregon players he credited his faith for giving him the strength to perform under pressure.
On a strange note, there's something about playing the Ducks that inspires opposing kickers to career milestones. Opponents have hit field goals of 55, 58 and 59 yards against Oregon, all career longs.