TUSCALOOSA, Ala.– After missing three field goals and having a couple of kick blocked last week, Alabama head football coach Nick Saban had a much better disposition when discussing special teams at the conclusion of Saturday’s scrimmage at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
While the Crimson Tide has not boasted a consistent leg since Jeremy Shelley, the program is hopeful that Andy Pappanastos and freshman Joseph Bulovas can mature into being marquee assets.
Senior punter JK Scott, arguably the best leg on the team, even tried his luck at kicking.
“I thought we were much better,” Saban said.
“JK made a 51-yard field goal. I think Joseph kicked two field goals. He made one and missed one. Andy was three for three and we made the rest.”
According to Saban, Alabama’s specialists nailed multiple kicks in the rain.
This bodes well for the Tide, especially if it should play in rough weather conditions throughout the coming season.
“It was a good situation we had planned,” he said. “We do have some wet ball practices and we’ve had some rainy practices thus far and it’s certainly paid off.”
Matchups versus Missouri (2012) and Arkansas (2014) featured Alabama in rainy conditions.
Although it won both contests, the Tide struggled against Arkansas – escaping D.W.R. Razorback Stadium with a 14-13 win.
Whether it decides to go with a two-man system at kicker or possibly have Scott handle punts and kicks, Saban must have consistency at that spot.
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @Smsmith_TDALMag.
