Teams that make the College Football Playoff (CFP) generally stick with what got them there. Coaches typically avoid making drastic changes and putting players into high-pressure situations they haven’t faced during the regular season. However, the 2025 Cotton Bowl showcased a surprising twist in the Texas Longhorns’ game plan.
In a thrilling semifinal matchup against Ohio State, the Longhorns found themselves in a tight contest. With just minutes remaining in the second quarter, Texas scored an 18-yard touchdown, bringing the score to a pivotal moment. Instead of the usual Bert Auburn stepping up for the extra point, it was junior kicker Will Stone who took the field. This was a bold move, considering Stone had never attempted an extra point in his collegiate career before that moment.
Will Stone’s debut moment
Stone, a left-footed kicker, made a significant impact by successfully converting the extra point, tying the game. This moment marked a milestone in his career, as he had only registered tackles in his stats prior to this game. The fact that he was primarily known for his kickoff duties made this transition even more intriguing.
What led to this decision? Auburn, a senior, had struggled with his kicking accuracy this season, converting only 68.2% of his field goal attempts. This inconsistency may have prompted the coaching staff to take a chance on Stone during such a crucial game.
Who is Will Stone?
So, who exactly is Will Stone? He is a junior at Texas and has been with the Longhorns since 2022. Hailing from Austin, Texas, Stone attended Regents School, where he was recognized as a two-star prospect. His left-footed kicking style makes him easily identifiable on the field.
Will Stone’s hometown and high school
Born and raised in Austin, Stone is a true Longhorn at heart. He attended Regents School, where he developed his skills and caught the attention of college recruiters. Despite being a two-star prospect, he decided to stay local and committed to Texas in the 2022 recruiting class. It’s a classic story of a hometown hero striving to make his mark on the team he grew up supporting.
Will Stone’s recruiting journey
Stone’s recruitment journey was quite interesting. He first received an offer from Michigan State in mid-June 2021. After taking an official visit to the Spartans on June 12, he quickly garnered interest from Texas, receiving an offer just two days later. In a swift turn of events, Stone committed to the Longhorns only three days after his visit to Michigan State, showcasing his desire to remain close to home and represent his local university.
Will Stone’s career place-kicking stats
As of the Cotton Bowl, Stone’s career stats were quite modest:
- 0 field goals attempted
- 0 field goals made
- 1-1 extra points
Despite these numbers, the pressure of the CFP semifinal didn’t seem to faze him. He nailed his first extra point attempt and continued to handle his regular kickoff duties during the game.
The impact of the decision
This decision to go with Stone instead of the more experienced Auburn raises questions about the Longhorns’ strategy moving forward. Will this be a one-time gamble, or could Stone become a more prominent figure in Texas’ kicking game? His successful extra point in such a high-stakes environment could be a turning point for his career.
The Longhorns’ coaching staff clearly saw potential in Stone, and this moment could be the beginning of a new chapter for him. The confidence shown in Stone reflects a willingness to adapt and innovate, even in the face of tradition.
As the game progressed, the stakes only grew higher. The Longhorns were not just playing for a spot in the championship; they were also showcasing their depth and resilience. Stone’s performance added an exciting layer to the narrative, as fans watched a young player step up when it mattered most.
The future of Texas football
Looking ahead, the Longhorns have a bright future with players like Will Stone. His journey from a two-star prospect to a key player in a CFP semifinal illustrates the unpredictable nature of college football. Fans can only wonder what other surprises lie ahead for Texas as they continue to navigate the challenges of the playoff landscape.
In a sport where every point counts, having a reliable kicker can make all the difference. Will Stone’s unexpected rise could be just what Texas needs as they aim for glory. As the Longhorns push forward, one thing is clear: the excitement of college football never ceases to amaze, and players like Stone are a testament to that.
