The Promising Journey of Jackson Courville: A Steady Force for the Ball State Cardinals Jackson Courville, donning the #96 jersey for the Ball State Cardinals, has quickly established himself as a reliable and talented placekicker. His journey with the Cardinals began as a true freshman, where he assumed starting placekicking duties from the very beginning, marking a rare achievement for the program. In his freshman season, Courville demonstrated his accuracy and consistency, making 24 of 25 PAT attempts and 15 of 21 field goal attempts. He was particularly effective inside 40 yards, where he was 12-of-13, and his season-long field goal was a 48-yarder against Kent State. His performance in high-pressure situations, such as his game-winning 36-yard field goal against Northern Illinois, further solidified his reputation as a clutch player. Courville’s sophomore season saw him continue to build on his success, earning a 2024 Preseason All-MAC selection. He made 11-of-13 field goal attempts and 30-of-31 PATs, totaling 421 yards off seven kickoff attempts. His career-best 52-yard field goal against Northern Illinois in 2024 was a testament to his growing range and skill. Off the field, Courville is known for his dedication to academics, being nominated as an Academic All-America nominee. His commitment to both his studies and his sport reflects his well-rounded approach as a student-athlete. As Jackson Courville continues his career with the Ball State Cardinals, his #96 jersey symbolizes his growing legacy as a dependable and skilled placekicker. His journey is a testament to the importance of hard work, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. With each game, Courville’s contributions to the Cardinals’ special teams grow, and his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere.