Harris County junior Tanner Guenther went into the Week 9 matchup against Starr’s Mill ready. The highly-rated 2028 specialist had missed two field goals earlier in the season and knew that this matchup could potentially come down to a single play – a field goal – that would rest on his shoulders.
“My season has been pretty good so far. It started a little slow, but I’ve been getting more opportunities to kick as the season has gone on. I’m starting to feel more comfortable and getting to show what I can do,” he said.
His big opportunity arrived with almost 7 seconds left on the clock, and Harris County trailing 22-20. Guenther lined up for a 31-yard field goal. The junior steadied himself as he prepared for what would become the game-winning field goal.
“I try not to overthink it,” he said. “I’ve been iced before on almost every field goal attempt this season, so I’ve had some experience dealing with that. This was my first game-winning attempt, but I treated it like any other kick. There was a lot of pressure, and the wind was blowing against me, but I just focused on doing my job and making the kick.”
The field goal attempt split the uprights, and Harris County walked off with a victory. Guenther celebrated with his teammates on the sideline as the crowd broke into a frenzy. 48 hours later, the junior’s game-winner was selected as one of the top 10 plays of the week, and on Monday night, Guenther was voted the #1 play in Georgia.
On the season, Guenther has made 3 of 5 field goals, but has now connected on three in a row. He’s made every extra point attempt (16/16), and feels upbeat about his kicking right now, saying, “It’s been a good feeling to get more consistent and help my team put points on the board.”
Guenther worked hard over the last offseason to improve his game. He attributed several key areas that have made a difference this fall.
“My kickoffs have improved since last season, but the biggest difference is getting the opportunity to kick field goals and extra points. Last year, I mostly handled kickoffs, so this season has given me a chance to show what I can do as a field goal kicker. Being able to contribute in more ways has been a big step for me,” he said.
With Harris County 4-4 on the year, they are more than 80% through the season, and the 2028 kicker would like to finish the season strong, saying, “My main goal is to make my kicks and help my team win our last two games. I want to keep building confidence, stay consistent, and finish the season strong.”
Guenther has not heard from colleges just yet. The Chris Sailer 4-star kicker has a lot of promise with his leg strength and frame to generate power. He is dedicated to the craft, which will take him far. The junior talked about visiting several colleges over the summer and the experiences he gained.
“This summer, I attended kicking camps at the University of Florida, Mercer University, Georgia Tech, Clemson, and Auburn. It was a great opportunity to get in front of college coaches, compete, and get a feel for different programs as I work toward kicking at the next level.”
Although the 2028 kicker has only made three field goals, it’s always noteworthy when one is a game-winner. Those are the toughest to make, and demonstrates the true colors of a kicker, when the game is on the line. Guenther has that clutch gene, and that positive momentum from this game-winner will carry on to the offseason, so be sure to follow @RecruitGeorgia to hear about the 2028 prospects’ recruiting journey and players all across the state.
Game winning 31 yard field goal into the wind
1-1 field goal
2-2 extra points https://t.co/3AADdzEv0t— Tanner Guenther (@Tannerguenther_) October 17, 2026
