Mike Vanderjagt
Mike Vanderjagt
#### Full Name and Common Aliases
Mike Vanderjagt is a Canadian former professional football player, best known as a placekicker in the National Football League (NFL).
#### Birth and Death Dates
Vanderjagt was born on August 24, 1968.
#### Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: Canadian
Profession: Former NFL Placekicker
#### Early Life and Background
Mike Vanderjagt's early life is not extensively documented in the public domain. However, it is known that he played football throughout his high school career at Centennial High School in Chatham, Ontario.
#### Major Accomplishments
Vanderjagt had a remarkable 14-year NFL career, playing for several teams including the Indianapolis Colts and San Diego Chargers. Some of his notable achievements include:
Holding the record for most consecutive field goals made with a minimum of 40 yards (42) from 2002 to 2003.
Being named a Pro Bowl alternate in 2004.
#### Notable Works or Actions
While Vanderjagt's on-field accomplishments are significant, it is his off-field antics that have contributed largely to his notoriety. In the early 2000s, he sparked controversy with comments made about the United States and its citizens following a missed game-winning field goal in the Colts' loss to the Baltimore Ravens.
#### Impact and Legacy
Mike Vanderjagt's impact on the world of football is undeniable. As one of the most successful kickers in NFL history, his skills and accuracy helped teams win games. His outspoken personality made him a polarizing figure in sports media. Despite controversy surrounding his comments, he remains an iconic figure in Canadian football.
#### Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Vanderjagt's placekicking abilities and unapologetic attitude have cemented his status as one of the most remembered kickers in NFL history. His quotes and actions continue to be referenced in sports media, often sparking debate about the intersection of sportsmanship and patriotism.
Quotes by Mike Vanderjagt
I hit it good, but I looked up and it was not even close. It was very much a surprise where the ball ended up. I would have bet a lot of money that ball was going in.
I hit it good, but it wasn't even close. I looked up and couldn't believe it. I have no idea why it went where it went. I would've bet a lot of money that ball was going in. I can't explain it.
I remember the hostility of the situation. Nobody likes the horseshoe in that town just because of the way it ended back in 1984. Those are loyal Baltimore fans. They probably hated the fact that the Colts left and then we were back.
I have no idea why it went where it went. As far as I was concerned, I hit it right.
I'm somewhat in shock standing here after a missed field goal. I never thought in a million years I would've missed it.
I'm somewhat in shock that I am standing here after a missed field goal. I'm not sure what happened.
It's probably a very big deal to them, just like it was in '98, but it's not like the huge New England-Indianapolis rivalry. If we played a few more times, people would start hating the Colts more over there than they already do.
It is tough to keep going, it really is. We are looking forward to going down there Tuesday and being with him and showing 100 percent support to him.
This organization loves Tony. We certainly would have liked to have given him a Super Bowl ring to fill one percent of that 100 percent hole he has in his heart right now.
The snap was good, the hold was good, but the kick wasn't good. I was very much surprised where that ball ended up.