The Indiana Hoosiers are off to a roaring start in the 2026 season thanks to an emphatic 52-16 win over North Texas in Week 1. Plenty of players stepped up and shined, giving the reigning National Champions an ideal start to their title-defending campaign.
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With names like Josh Hoover, Charlie Becker, and Nick Marsh putting forth eye-popping showings in the season opener, Hoosier football fans have a lot to be excited about. But during a press conference on Thursday night, Curt Cignetti hinted at a possible x-factor that has yet to make its mark this season.
Billy McAteer could be Indiana's secret weapon on special teams this season
Billy McAteer came to Indiana via the transfer portal in the offseason, and he seems to be taking on the role of IU's long-range field goal kicker this season. McAteer handled the kick-off responsibilities in Week 1, and could be a useful weapon in the long-range kicking game. Cignetti stated that McAteer has range that goes beyond 60 yards, which could become extremely useful this season.
Entering the 2026 season, Nico Radicic is once again handling the primary placekicking responsibilities for the Hoosiers. Radicic was money last season, as he connected on all 87 of his extra point tries and 17 of his 18 field goal attempts. As reliable as Radicic has been, he has yet to connect on a field goal of 50+ yards in his collegiate career. In fact, he hasn't even attempted a field goal from 50+ yards. He's 7-of-8 in his career from 40-49 yards, and drilled a career-high 49-yard field goal last week against North Texas.
Long-range kickers are essential in today's era of college football. Even in the college ranks, seeing field goals of 50+ yards have become the new normal. Radicic is a rock solid kicker from inside 50 yards, but when it comes to field goals beyond that range, Cignetti seems to like McAteer's chances to take on that role in successful fashion.
A native of Mullaghbawn, Ireland, McAteer first kicked an American football in April 2024 at the age of 20. He spent two seasons at Troy upon arriving in the United States, and has raised eyebrows with his long-range kicking ability. He converted a 53-yard field goal with Troy last season at Texas State, showcasing the kind of leg strength that could make him a valuable weapon for Indiana this season.
There's no denying that the Hoosier offense excels at moving the ball efficiently and taking advantage of their scoring opportunities. However, there is bound to be a time this season when having a long-range field goal kicker is needed. In big-time games with the smallest of margins, having a player capable of splitting the uprights in that situation could be the difference between a win and a loss. McAteer seems to be up to the task, and it will be interesting to see if/when he is called upon this season.
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