Kalen DeBoer’s Take on Alabama’s Special Teams Performance
Kalen DeBoer highlights Alabama punter James Burnip’s consistency and performance during preseason camp. Learn about Burnip’s accolades, the progress of Alabama’s special teams, and insights from DeBoer after the Crimson Tide’s latest scrimmage.
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When Kalen DeBoer initially observed Alabama punter James Burnip during spring football, he noted some inconsistencies. However, as preseason camp has progressed, Burnip's performance has silenced those early concerns.
“By the end of spring practice, you could see the improvements in his consistency,” DeBoer commented. “He’s been exceptional from the start of camp and has maintained that high level of play throughout. I was curious to see how he would handle the summer break, and he’s come back ready to excel. Not only has he demonstrated impressive distance and hang time, but he’s also been highly effective at placing punts within the 10-yard line.”
Burnip, who received second-team All-SEC honors last season, averaged 47.6 yards per punt, ranking second in the conference and fifth nationally. He was also a semifinalist for the Ray Guy Award, recognizing the top punter in the country, and is a popular choice for 2024 preseason All-SEC lists.
DeBoer also commended other members of Alabama’s special teams following the Crimson Tide’s second preseason scrimmage.
“I’m really pleased with our veteran long snapper, Kneeland Hibbett,” DeBoer noted. “Our kickers have had valuable opportunities to practice in the stadium recently. It’s crucial for them to get accustomed to the depth perception and the environment of the stadium. They’ve been working hard to translate their practice performance into game situations.”
While the kickers had some struggles during the first scrimmage at Bryant-Denny Stadium, which included Graham Nicholson, the reigning Lou Groza Award winner from Miami of Ohio, and returnee Conor Talty, DeBoer is optimistic about their progress.
“The practice field performances have been very consistent,” DeBoer said. “It’s just about transferring that consistency to game settings. This week has shown improvement, not only in today’s practice but also in their previous sessions here, whether working with the team or individually.”
Alabama football will resume preseason practice on Tuesday, with the 2024 season opener set for August 31 against Western Kentucky at Bryant-Denny Stadium.
