Sometimes the best way to handle criticism is with a sense of humor. University of Kentucky punter Aidan Laros discovered this firsthand when EA Sports College Football 26 gave him a zero toughness rating. Rather than sulk about it, the senior decided to take matters into his own hands in the most entertaining way possible.
How Did Laros Respond to His Zero Toughness Rating?
If Laros walked into a room, you would not know who he was, as the lives of college punters go. They do not receive the credit and applause saved for placekickers. Yet, punters remain a vital part of a defensive plan, serving as the first line of defense.
When the punt lands within the twenty, the offense must drive most of the field just to attempt a field goal. Plus, backed up near their goal line, the chance for catastrophic mistakes, like an interception or fumble, increases with each snap.
On top of that, the looming safety call for a penalty committed in the end zone creates additional pressure. Laros, entering his second season in Lexington, decided to address his perceived lack of toughness head-on. After receiving a zero toughness rating in the EA Sports College Football video game, the UT-Martin transfer, with the help of the Kentucky social media team, chose to hilariously address the issue.
.@EASPORTSCollege, @aidan_laros is working on his toughness rating for next year’s game. pic.twitter.com/eOBKab8NBU
— Kentucky Football (@UKFootball) July 16, 2025
In a style reminiscent of the classic Adam Sandler movie “Happy Gilmore,” the senior takes what apparently looks like a football ejected from a machine at high velocity directly to his chest. While this approach is tongue-in-cheek and meant for humor, it showcases the kind of creative problem-solving that makes college football so entertaining.
Why Is the Toughness Question Actually Funny?
A dive into Laros’ lineage shows why the perceived lack of toughness is particularly amusing. His father, Adrian, played 14 years of Division 1 rugby, the highest level in South Africa. The youngest Laros played linebacker in high school, earning Big 8 Conference Defensive Player of the Year.
Additionally, you must factor in mental toughness, as Laros earned consensus FCS All-American nods for playing at UT-Martin. Plus, if you factor in the fact that he also kicked field goals, making 10 of 16, the toughness question is easily solved, without a doubt.
With the season less than seven weeks away, you must figure out that some college players need some form of entertainment. Laros will have his work cut out for him with expectations. College football guru Phil Steele named him to his preseason All-SEC team. He must either equal or surpass the 45.4 yards per punt he tallied during his initial campaign for the Wildcats.
