Alex Raynor is the best field goal kicker in the country.
; Raynor doesn’t really have a chance to surpass that record without some bonus year of eligibility. In terms of both leg strength and consistency. He hasn’t missed all season when there were three points on the line. He’s only had one blip with an extra point, but he’s been nails when converting for three. They haven’t all been chip shots; he’s made field goals all over the place. He’s now made 18 consecutive field goals in a row.
He hasn’t missed a field goal since October 28, 2023, when he tried to squeeze a deep 53-yard field goal in the 4th quarter against the Tennessee Volunteers. He went 2-2 in the last game against Murray State with a long of 32 yards. Those two put him within striking distance of the SEC record.
The SEC record for consecutive field goals made is 20, and it was set back in 2014 by Georgia kicker Marshall Morgan. The previous record was 18 in a row before Marshall extended it to 19 and then to 20 in the same game, eventually missing the 21st attempt in that game against South Carolina.
Therefore, if Raynor makes his first field goal attempt on Saturday against the Texas Longhorns, that will move him out of tied for second place with 18 and into solo second place with 19; it will also put him one more made field goal away from tying the record with Marshall. If somehow he’s able to convert three attempts in a row (from his first to his third), that would push him into the record books in the SEC with 21 consecutive field goals made.
You may be asking about the NCAA record; Raynor doesn’t really have a chance to surpass that record without some bonus year of eligibility. Raynor, being a senior, will be graduating this year and won’t be able to chase the all-time record of 34 set by Nick Sciba of Wake Forest in 2018. Unless Kentucky tries 16 field goals in two games, and Raynor doesn’t miss a single one. It doesn’t feel likely, but breaking the SEC record would be amazing and would give him a ton of confidence as he sets his sights on kicking in the NFL.
Kentucky kicker Alex Raynor semifinalist for Lou Groza Collegiate Place-Kicker Award. Has made a UK-record 18 consecutive field goals dating to 2023 and owns the career field goal percentage mark at UK at .962 (25-of-26). Earlier this season he set a school record with a 55-yard field goal against then-No. 1 Georgia. Amongst active FBS players he ranks second in points (389), field goals made (70-of-83) and PATs (179). He also currently owns the sixth-longest streak in SEC history for consecutive made field goals.
Kentucky’s Kicker Alex Raynor Has a Chance to Break an SEC Record Against Texas
As the University of Kentucky prepares for a pivotal matchup against the University of Texas, one name that has been generating significant buzz is that of Wildcats kicker Alex Raynor. Raynor, a senior transfer from South Alabama, has had a standout season, making his mark not just with his reliability but with his potential to set a new SEC record for consecutive field goals. His performance against Texas could be historic, as he inches closer to breaking a long-standing record in the Southeastern Conference.
The Record at Stake
Raynor’s potential for record-breaking success revolves around his pursuit of the SEC’s consecutive field goal record. The current record stands at 18 consecutive successful field goals, set by former Florida kicker Eddie Pineiro. Raynor, with his consistent performances throughout the season, is now just a few successful kicks away from surpassing Pineiro’s mark. As of the latest count, Raynor has successfully made 16 consecutive field goals, positioning him within striking distance of rewriting the history books.
The importance of this achievement cannot be overstated. The SEC has produced some of the best kickers in college football history, with players like Pineiro, Adam Vinatieri, and other NFL-bound specialists. To break this record would be a monumental achievement, not only for Raynor himself but also for the Kentucky football program, which has historically not been known for its kicking prowess.
Raynor’s Journey to Kentucky
Before arriving at Kentucky, Alex Raynor spent three seasons at South Alabama, where he garnered attention for his strong leg and consistency. In his time at South Alabama, Raynor made a name for himself with impressive long-range kicks and his ability to perform in clutch situations. However, his move to Kentucky has been a game-changer, both for his career and for the Wildcats.
Raynor’s transition to Kentucky has been seamless. Since joining the team, he has showcased his accuracy and poise under pressure, becoming one of the most reliable kickers in the SEC. His presence has stabilized the Wildcats’ special teams, an area that has sometimes been a weak link for Kentucky in years past. Raynor’s success has been crucial to the Wildcats’ scoring efforts, particularly in close games where field goals can make the difference between victory and defeat.
Key Contributions to Kentucky’s Season
Raynor’s consistency has been a key asset to Kentucky’s special teams. His 16 consecutive field goals have not only placed him on the brink of SEC history but have also been critical in the Wildcats’ strong performances this season. His ability to convert field goals from long distances has helped the team remain competitive, especially in tight games against tough opponents.
Against teams with high-powered offenses like Texas, the ability to capitalize on every scoring opportunity is vital. Raynor’s leg could be the difference-maker, as his accuracy and range give Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops a reliable option when the offense stalls in the red zone. Additionally, his ability to remain calm and collected under pressure has earned him the trust of his teammates and coaching staff alike.
The Game Against Texas
Kentucky’s upcoming game against Texas is more than just another regular-season matchup — it’s a chance for Raynor to carve his name into the annals of SEC history. The Longhorns, with their formidable defense and potent offense, will provide a stern test for the Wildcats. However, in a game where every point could prove crucial, Raynor’s kicking could prove invaluable.
With Raynor needing only two more successful field goals to break the record, the Texas game could be the moment that fans remember for years to come. A record-breaking kick in a high-profile game would solidify Raynor’s place in SEC history and serve as a testament to his preparation, focus, and resilience.
The Mentality of a Kicker
While much of the attention surrounding Raynor’s pursuit of the SEC field goal record focuses on his physical abilities, the mental aspect of kicking is just as important. A kicker’s job is often scrutinized, with very little room for error. The pressure to succeed is immense, especially when the game is on the line, or a record is in sight. Raynor has proven time and again that he thrives under such pressure.
In interviews, Raynor has spoken about the mental fortitude required to be successful as a kicker in the SEC. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a calm demeanor and focusing on each kick as an individual task, rather than getting lost in the moment. “It’s about staying in the moment,” Raynor said. “When you focus on each kick, you’re able to stay consistent and keep your confidence high.”
His ability to maintain composure is a trait that will serve him well as he continues to approach the record and prepare for a high-stakes game against Texas. If Raynor is able to break the record in front of a national audience, it will be a validation of his skill and mental toughness.
The Significance for Kentucky Football
While individual accolades are important, Raynor’s potential record-breaking performance carries extra significance for Kentucky football. The Wildcats have been steadily improving under Coach Stoops, and breaking an SEC record in such a prestigious conference is another sign of the program’s growth. Raynor’s success not only reflects positively on him but also on the entire Kentucky team, which has benefited from his consistency.
A win over Texas, paired with a record-breaking performance from Raynor, would give the Wildcats a significant boost in the rankings and momentum heading into the remainder of the season. Kentucky has its sights set on competing in a major bowl game, and Raynor’s reliability will continue to play a key role in that pursuit.
Looking Ahead
Regardless of whether Raynor breaks the record against Texas, his future remains bright. With his exceptional leg and composure, he will likely continue to be one of the top kickers in the country. Many NFL teams take notice of kickers who perform consistently at a high level in college, and Raynor’s ability to handle pressure and deliver in clutch moments may very well lead to a professional career.
For now, though, all eyes are on his next opportunity to make history. With two successful field goals needed to break the SEC record, the Texas game represents a defining moment in his career. If he succeeds, it will not only be a personal achievement for Raynor but also a historic moment for Kentucky football and the SEC as a whole.
Conclusion
As Kentucky’s kicker Alex Raynor heads into the matchup against Texas, he has the chance to make history by breaking the SEC’s consecutive field goal record. His incredible consistency and poise under pressure have positioned him to achieve this milestone, which would be a testament to his skill and mental fortitude. Whether or not he breaks the record in this game, Raynor’s legacy at Kentucky is already cemented as one of the most reliable kickers in recent memory, and his performance in the Texas game could serve as a defining moment in the Wildcats’ season.
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