Kentucky kicker Alex Raynor has added another accolade to his impressive collegiate career by being named a semifinalist for the prestigious Lou Groza Collegiate Place-Kicker Award. Presented by the Orange Bowl, the award recognizes college football’s top kicker.
Raynor, in his second season with Kentucky after transferring from Georgia Southern, has been a record-breaking force for the Wildcats. He currently holds the UK record for 18 consecutive made field goals, dating back to 2023, and boasts a school-best career field goal percentage of .962 (25-of-26). Earlier this season, Raynor etched his name in Kentucky history with a 55-yard field goal against then-No. 1 Georgia, the longest in school history.
Among active FBS players, Raynor ranks second in points scored (389), field goals made (70-of-83), and PATs (179). His streak of consecutive made field goals stands as the sixth-longest in Southeastern Conference history.
Notable Accomplishments
- William V. Campbell Trophy semifinalist for the second consecutive season (2024).
- SEC Special Teams Player of the Week (Week 5).
- Lou Groza Award Star of the Week (Week 3).
- At Kentucky, 12-of-13 on field goals of 40+ yards and 4-of-5 on attempts of 50+ yards.
Semifinalists for the Lou Groza Award will be evaluated by a distinguished panel that includes FBS head coaches, media members, former finalists, and NFL kickers. Three finalists will be announced on November 26th and celebrated at the Lou Groza Collegiate Place-Kicker Award Banquet in Palm Beach County on December 9th. The winner will be revealed live on ESPN during the Home Depot College Football Awards on December 12th.
About the Lou Groza Award
Named after NFL Hall of Famer Lou “The Toe” Groza, the award honors a legacy that reshaped football by highlighting the role of dedicated place-kickers. Groza, a four-time NFL champion with the Cleveland Browns, played 21 seasons and was instrumental in establishing the kicker’s role as a key position in professional football.
Raynor’s remarkable consistency and record-setting performances have positioned him as one of the nation’s elite kickers. With his name among the semifinalists, he continues to solidify his legacy at Kentucky.
