2021 Countdown to Kickoff: 90 Days (Jared Smolar)

Written by Evan Orris

We are 10-percent of the way through the countdown to Indiana’s season opener at Iowa. Today we look at kickoff specialist Jared Smolar. He was been a weapon on kickoffs and should be again in 2021.

Jared Smolar

Hometown: Valparaiso, Ind.

Position/Year: Senior Kicker

Height/Weight: 5’11”/ 221 pounds

Jared Smolar’s career has been a journey. After being ranked as the No. 7 kicker and No. 12 punter according to Chris Sailor, Smolar committed to Rutgers. He appeared in three games for the Scarlet Knights as a kickoff specialist. After his one season in New Brunswick, N.J., Smolar transferred to Indiana.

Smolar had to sit out a year due to the transfer rule. Once he finally joined the team, he cemented himself as the Hoosiers’ kickoff specialist for the next three years where he has been one of the best in the Big Ten.

The former five-star kicking recruit has appeared in 30 games since joining IU. Through three seasons, Smolar has 64 touchbacks on 132 kickoffs. Last season alone, he had 22 touchbacks, which ranked third in the Big Ten, out of 44 kickoffs. This earned him a touchback percentage of 50.0% which ranked fifth in the Big Ten. Smolar was also able to add three tackles on kickoffs.

Smolar graduated late last year but decided to return for his super senior season. He will retain his role this upcoming season. Smolar’s role could increase only if starting kicker Charles Campbell sustains an injury. Hopefully for the Hoosiers’ that does not happen next season.