On Saturday, kicker Sam Babbush announced his commitment to OSU via social media. The Charleston Southern transfer will be the fourth kicker on the OSU roster for the 2024 season.
Last season, Babbush was the starting kicker at Charleston Southern, where he made 10 field goals and 19 extra points. Over his career, he has made 24 field goals and 68 extra points, with a career-long of 57 yards in 2022.
Babbush achieved a career-high 71% field goal completion rate last season and aims to bring that success to Stillwater as a graduate transfer. He was also a reliable kickoff specialist during his time at Charleston Southern.
#OKState has picked up Charleston Southern kicker transfer Sam Babbush. Over 30 games with the Buccaneers, Babbush converted 24-of-38 field goals with his longest being a 57-yarder in 2022. pic.twitter.com/wzIL38ZNFa
— McClain (@McclainBaxley) May 26, 2024
Last season was his only season as the primary kickoff specialist, and he delivered 37 kickoffs for a total of 2,255 yards, averaging 60.9 yards per kickoff, including 13 touchbacks.
With Alex Hale’s final season at OSU coming in 2023, the starting kicker job is up for grabs heading into fall camp. Hale made 27 field goals and 36 extra points last season, earning Second-Team All-Big 12 honors and becoming a semifinalist for the Lou Groza award.
Though often overlooked, the kicker position is crucial in college football. While Babbush has had a mixed career, his ability to make nearly 60-yard kicks is a valuable asset for any team.
With OSU’s offense projected to be highly explosive this season, field goals may not be frequent. However, the Cowboys will need a dependable kicker for high-pressure situations.
