VIDEO: Carson Wise Interview

"It's nice to get the recognition," Wise said. "This award gets tied to my name, but really it's a unit award.  As a field goal kicker, I completely rely on my snapper and holder, plus the protection up front to get the job done.  The coaches have kept confidence in us when we've stumbled a bit, we certainly appreciate that."

Wise booted the game-winning 18-yard field goal in overtime to hand Carson-Newman a 41-38 triumph at No. 21 Wingate Saturday.  He was a flawless 5-for-5 on his extra points and also kicked a 35-yard field goal that gave Carson-Newman a 38-35 lead late in regulation. 

Wise also earned special teams player of the week honors after his performance in the Eagles' opener against Cumberlands. 

The game-winning, walk-off field goal is the first of its kind for Carson-Newman since Carlos Lopez hit a 27-yard field goal to give the Eagles a 27-24 win over Brevard as time expired in regulation of 2011's meeting between the schools. 

Wise's game-winner didn't come without drama.  Wingate head coach Joe Reich called timeout prior to attempt one for Wise.  On attempt two, Nortavious Otis crossed the line of scrimmage well early for the Bulldogs, to the point where he was standing near even with Wise as he shanked his second attempt to the right. 

However, Wise wasn't worried and made certain try three was true. 

"I pulled off a little bit because I saw him move, when I did that, I ended up kicking the ground a bit behind the ball," Wise said. "I think I scared the team a little more than I scared myself.  I was glad we got the second chance, so I got the full swing with good contact."

Wise's kick also helped the Eagles snap a three-game losing streak in overtime games.  Carson-Newman hadn't won an overtime contest since beating Catawba 40-34 in 2001.

Wise and the rest of the Eagles are in action on Halloween at Limestone.  Kickoff from Gaffney, S.C. is set for 2 p.m. with coverage on the Eagle Sports Network starting at 1 with the Appalachian Electric Cooperative Tailgate Show on Joy 620 (WRJZ-AM, Knoxville), Mountain Country 106.3 (WPFT-FM, Sevierville) and online at cneagles.com/live.