UPDATE: In a decisive move following fan backlash, Alabama football coach Kalen DeBoer has replaced kicker Conor Talty after yet another missed field goal during the Crimson Tide’s game against Eastern Illinois on September 30, 2023. After Talty’s 28-yard miss, which drew boos from the crowd, DeBoer called on Peter Notaro to kick the extra point for Alabama’s fourth touchdown late in the second quarter.
The Crimson Tide, dominating the match, led 28-0 at that point. Talty’s earlier miss brought his season record to 11-for-18, with only 2-for-4 on field goals from 20 to 29 yards. The pressure on Talty escalated after a previous controversial performance where he missed a crucial 36-yarder against Oklahoma, a loss that resonated throughout the college football landscape.
DeBoer commented on the team dynamics, stating,
“We’re all competitive, and those guys are competitive… Conor’s a competitive guy, and he knows how important those points are.”
This insight highlights the intensity within the locker room as the team strives for excellence.
Notaro, a highly-rated five-star recruit and current preferred walk-on, previously showcased his skills by successfully completing all four of his extra point attempts during a blowout win over Louisiana-Monroe. His rise to this pivotal role comes after a battle for the starting position throughout preseason.
The decision to bench Talty underscores the high stakes and expectations within Alabama football, a program known for its relentless pursuit of victory. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how this change impacts the team’s performance in upcoming games.
As the Crimson Tide look to maintain their dominance, all eyes will be on Notaro as he steps into this critical role. Stay tuned for more updates as Alabama continues its campaign in the college football landscape.
