The eyes of Alabama football fans will be focused on marquee positional battles in fall camp.
It will be fun to track the progress of running backs, wide receivers, offensive linemen, and players on defense; however, the most intriguing competition may be on special teams.
Will Reichard, a junior, has the Crimson Tide secured for all field goal duties.
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He returns after a perfect season (14/14 FG’s, 84/84 PATs) in 2020. The competition will come for the starting punter job.
Charlie Scott was serviceable last season.
As the younger brother of an All-American, he transferred in from Air Force and averaged 39.2 yards per punt on 22 attempts. He dropped nine of his kicks inside the opponent’s 20-yard line and forced 15 fair catches. Scott helped Alabama secure a national championship, but he is no longer listed on the roster.
Alabama punter Ty Perine (No. 99) celebrates a 51-yard punt versus Tennessee in 2019 matchup/ Photo comes from Brian Pride – Touchdown Alabama Magazine
Perine, a junior from Prattville, Ala., did not see playing time last year.
He had an outstanding freshman season, as he took over punting duties versus Tennessee.
Perine played in six games and he averaged 44.7 yards per punt on 13 kicks. He totaled three 50+ yard punts and dropped two kicks inside the 20-yard line.
His excellence allowed him to be named to the Freshman All-SEC team, and he became a fan favorite. He has the ability to push the ball 50-60 yards through the air. All he needs is consistency on each attempt.
Photo of Jack Martin kicking off for Troy University in 2020 season comes from Troy Athletics
Martin, a transfer from Troy University, hails from Dothan, Ala.
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He was named first-team All-Sun Belt for his efforts in 2020. Martin totaled 1,153 yards on 25 punts and averaged 46.1 yards per kick.
He forced 13 fair catches and had 13 punts dropped inside the 20-yard line. Martin also recorded eight 50+ yard kicks.
Both players have strong legs, but which one gives Alabama the best consistency?
Fall practice will be the judge. Nick Saban requires excellence at all positions, and punter is not exempt.
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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 @CoachingMSmith.
