Doerfler gains confidence
Following up a 62-yard game-winning field goal performance is not easy, but Baker University's kicker Derek Doerfler did his best Saturday connecting on three of five field goal attempts at distances of 52, 53 and 50 yards.
"I'm getting more confident with the long kicks every game," Doerfler said.
His development into a clutch kicker has been a critical part in the team's success so far this season.
"He's had some huge kicks that we really needed," long snapper Aaron Whittle said. "He's a great asset to our team."
Doerfler previously played soccer at Baker before joining the football teamlast season. Doerfler trained during the offseason with Green Bay kicker Mason Crosby to develop field goal kicking skills.
Doerfler said Crosby taught him about football.
"He taught me a lot about in-game stuff," Doerfler said.
After setting the school record with a 57-yard field goal earlier this year, the stage was set for Doerfler. Then came the matchup against William Jewell College two weeks ago where he kicked five field goals including the 62-yard game winner.
"I had been struggling over 60 yards that day, but I knew if I line drived it, I could make it," Doerfler said.
Quarterback Mack Brown said Doerfler has had a great impact.
"We know once we get past the 50-yard line, we have a chance of putting points on the board," Brown said.
Whittle said having a quality kicker is a need.
"Coach says if you don't have a good kicker, you don't have a good team," Whittle said.