Mountaineers’ Memorable Field Goals: A Legacy of Last-Minute Victories
MORGANTOWN, WV — The rich history of West Virginia University’s football team features several nail-biting victories, with field goals often proving decisive. Among notable mentions is Mark Johnson’s late kick during a taut 10-9 win over Temple in 1991, and Johnny Thackston’s game-winning field goal securing a 10-7 victory against Richmond back in 1959.
Historically, the Mountaineers have clinched numerous games with last-minute kicks. Armin Mahrt’s dropkick against Pitt in 1922 and Malcolm Scott’s late field goal against Ohio University in 1911 exemplify the team’s long-standing tradition of clutch kicking, even if the final play dynamics may differ.
Recognized among the Mountaineer’s elite kickers, Tyler Bitancurt etched his name in the annals of WVU history with two unforgettable moments. His most renowned performance came in 2009 during the heated West Virginia-Pitt rivalry at Milan Puskar Stadium. With only two touchdowns scored throughout the match—a spectacular 88-yard run by Noel Devine and a 50-yard pass from Bill Stull to Jonathan Baldwin—points relied heavily on field goals. Bitancurt’s crucial 43-yarder, narrowly evading Baldwin’s fingertips, turned the tide, contributing to a dramatic 19-16 victory.
In hindsight, Mountaineer Coach Bill Stewart’s strategy was to score touchdowns rather than settle for field goals. However, as the intensity of the game unfolded, the need for precision kicking became clear. “I wanted to win,” he remarked post-game, highlighting the unpredictable nature of football.
This victory not only lifted the Mountaineers but also paved the way for Cincinnati to claim its second Big East title and a spot in the 2010 Sugar Bowl, showcasing the far-reaching implications of each thrilling field goal.
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