UPDATE: Alabama football has made a critical change at kicker following a string of missed opportunities by Conor Talty. Fans expressed their frustration with Talty after he missed a crucial 28-yard field goal during the game against Eastern Illinois on September 30, 2023. In a bold move, head coach Kalen DeBoer replaced Talty with freshman Peter Notaro for the extra point after Alabama’s fourth touchdown in the second quarter.
The decision came after Talty, who has struggled this season with a record of 11-for-18 on field goals and just 2-for-4 from 20-29 yards, was booed by the Crimson Tide faithful as he exited the field. Notaro successfully converted the extra point, extending Alabama’s lead to 28-0 as they dominated the game.
Talty’s performance has been under intense scrutiny, especially after his missed 36-yarder against Oklahoma last week—a miss that proved pivotal in Alabama’s loss. Tensions escalated when Talty was seen shouting at long-snapper David Bird after the botched snap. DeBoer commented on the situation, stating, “We’re all competitive… but it’s also an understanding of how important it is to these guys.”
Notaro, a five-star recruit from high school, had been competing with Talty throughout preseason camp. He previously made all four of his extra point attempts in Alabama’s earlier blowout win against Louisiana-Monroe. As a preferred walk-on, Notaro now has a chance to solidify his role as the team’s kicker moving forward.
The shift at kicker could dramatically impact Alabama’s trajectory as they seek to bounce back from recent setbacks. Fans will be watching closely to see if Notaro can provide the stability and performance the team desperately needs in upcoming games.
As the Crimson Tide continues their season, the pressure is on both the players and coaching staff to deliver results. Will Notaro rise to the challenge, or will Talty reclaim his position? Stay tuned for the latest developments in Alabama football.
