Colts Kicker Focused on God’s Love Before Game-Winning Field Goal

Published: September 17, 2025

By Mallory Mattingly

Before Spencer Shrader secured the game-winning field goal for the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday, he reminded himself of one thing.

“I was obviously trying to stay as calm as I could on the sideline and just thinking about, ‘Listen, God loves you no matter what,’” the 26-year-old told the media after the game. “‘Just go out there and do your best for the team…The Lord has a plan for you.’ He put me in that situation. I believed in Him and I trusted in Him, and I was able to execute. And even if I hadn’t, I know that He would still love me.”

After the ball went through the two pylons to win the game, the team and fans praised Shrader for his play on the field.

“That’s a blessing right there, to see the guys that joyful after a team win like that is truly a special experience,” the athlete said. “And to know that I played my part in creating that environment at the end of the day is something that makes you feel really special.”

Though still young in his pro career, Shrader is 14-for-14 on field goals. He is also 14-for-14 on extra point attempts, per Sports Spectrum. The Colts are now 2-0 to start the season, the first time since 2009 the team have started their season this strongly.

For his final year of college football, Shrader transferred to Notre Dame.

“After four years of playing for USF, I felt it was time for me to find a new and challenging adventure!” he told Sports Illustrated of his move to Notre Dame. “I loved my time at USF, and it will always be home to me. It was very hard for me to leave, but it was made easier since all my original coaches and friends that I came in with have since left.”

During his time with the Fighting Irish, Shrader let his faith shine through everything he did.

“My faith is at the forefront of everything that I do,” he explained. “What appealed to me was how historic and iconic Notre Dame is and how classy of an institution they are. They don’t just throw money at players and overlook character; they care deeply about the type of people that attend their school. I align with everything that the University represents.”

“Even with many attractive offers, it wasn’t hard for me to choose Notre Dame,” he added. “It is the perfect mix of faith, family, and football. Notre Dame stands for something, and I appreciate that. I can’t wait to give my all for this university.”

Shrader went 5-for-5 on Sunday and secured the game-winning field goal to advance the Colts’ record this season. But no matter what happens the rest of the season. he knows God still loves him.

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