Syracuse, N.Y. -- Syracuse football senior Cole Murphy was named one of 20 semifinalists for the Lou Groza Award on Thursday. The honor is given annually to the nation's best kicker.
Murphy has bounced back from a disappointing junior campaign by connecting on 16-of-18 field goals this year, including a 4-for-4 performance in sloppy conditions at Miami. He hasn't missed an attempt shorter than 40 yards and is 6 of 8 from 40-plus, including a career-long 53-yard make against the Hurricanes.
Murphy is one of three two-time semifinalists on the list. As a true freshman walk-on in 2014, he hit 13-of-16 field goals to receive his national recognition.