Another Louisiana Ragin’ Cajun has been recognized before the season begins as kicker Kenny Almendares lands on the Lou Groza Award watch list. The announcement was made on Wednesday by the Palm Beach County Sports Commission.
The Clute, Texas native is just one of 30 kickers on the list as knocked through 18 of his 23 attempts from last season. Almendares is also one of two specialists that made all their kicks from 50 yards and beyond in 2022 (minimum of three).
The sophomore made at least one field goal in every game he participated in last year and finished out his season knocking down his last 12 attempts. His best game as a Cajun came on November 10th in a 36-17 win over Georgia Southern where Almendares went 5/5 on the day with his longest kick being from 48 yards out.
The season will mark the 32nd year of the Lou Groza Collegiate Place-Kicker Award, presented by the Orange Bowl. The committee will recognize its three finalists during a celebration in Palm Beach County, culminating with a gala awards banquet on December 4th in West Palm Beach, Florida. The award winner will be announced during the Home Depot College Football Awards on ESPN.
2023 will be Almendares’ fifth year in Lafayette as Louisiana will begin its season on Saturday, September 2nd with the Cajuns hosting the Northwestern State Demons. The kickoff for that contest will be at 6:30.