Manaki Watanabe looks like Fresno State’s new money kicker
In the 2025 season at Ashland, Manaki Watanabe was a machine: 21-of-22 on field goals, 39-of-40 on PATs, and a Division II leader in both field goals made and accuracy, plus a 59-yard long that screams range[2][4]. Fresno State rewarded that profile by naming him to the 2026 Lou Groza Award watch list, and reports say he has already won the Bulldogs’ starting job[2][9]. Why care? He brings proven leg strength, elite efficiency, and a calm, all-business vibe that fits a team looking for a reliable points producer in tight games[1][2][4].
