Johns Hopkins Wins on Last-Second Fair Catch Kick

On October 31, Johns Hopkins edged Muhlenberg 31-28 in Baltimore when kicker Kaleb Wayt converted a 39-yard fair catch kick in the closing seconds. The Division III game was decided by a college football rule restored this season after a 76-year absence.

With the score level at 28, Johns Hopkins returner Alex Orecchio caught a short punt at Muhlenberg’s 29-yard line. That gave the Blue Jays the option of kicking from the catch location. Wayt’s successful attempt put Johns Hopkins ahead with two seconds remaining.

The rule bars the defense from rushing a kick after a fair catch, giving the kicker room to attempt a field goal from the spot. Such kicks are rarely used, particularly because they are most advantageous when little time remains.

Johns Hopkins had nearly lost its chance to score. Muhlenberg had possession at its own 2-yard line with 18 seconds left, but a player’s helmet coming off stopped the clock. The Mules then punted, and Johns Hopkins returned the ball before Orecchio made the fair catch.

The Blue Jays had surrendered a 28-13 fourth-quarter lead before winning. Wayt improved to six made field goals on nine attempts this season, including five from inside 40 yards. Johns Hopkins moved to 3-5 with its second straight win; Muhlenberg fell to 4-4.