PASADENA, Calif. (KOIN) -- Off the field, the Oregon Ducks kicker is just plain Atticus. But on the field he channels his "assassin mode. I'm not really the same person."
Atticus Sappington is not your average kicker. The Central Catholic alum transferred from Oregon State before the season began and has hit 14 of 16 field goals this year, including some clutch three-pointers.
"When I go out there and deliver, make the play, do my 1/11th, I’ll headbutt someone. I’ll get fired up. I can’t even describe it, but, yeah, I’ve got some juice," he told KOIN 6 News.
He's grateful for his performance so far this year, but this season is so much bigger than that for him.
"It’s been magical, honestly. It’s been one of the best experiences I’ve ever had in my life," he said. "Being a true Oregon kid of wanting to play for the Ducks and now being here. It’s just such a blessing. I’m just very thankful."
Players on the Ducks squad talk a lot about connection, something Sappington also noted.
"It’s just truly a special experience to be a part of this special Oregon team because this is just a special atmosphere. What we’ve got what we have in this room, I don’t think anyone can stop us."
If Oregon wins the national championship, he said it would "mean everything, especially just being a homegrown kid. Walked on to Oregon State and then came here as a true blood Oregon guy. I can’t even put into words what that would mean to me. I’ll definitely probably get emotional."
Atticus Sappington and the rest of the Oregon Ducks take the field against Ohio State at 2 p.m. Wednesday in the Rose Bowl.
