BOULDER — Colorado’s Aric Goodman, a fifth-year senior from Cherry Creek, has won the starting place-kicking job.
CU coach Dan Hawkins said today following a two-hour scrimmage that Goodman will start in the Sept. 4 opener against Colorado State in Invesco Field at Mile High.
“He’s been consistent (throughout August practices),” Hawkins said. “And he kicked well today.”
Goodman was challenged by Justin Castor, a true freshman from Arvada West; and walk-on junior Marcus Kirkwood, who played soccer at Faith Christian High School. A week ago, on the only depth chart released thus far, Goodman, Kirkwood and Castor all were listed as even.
“This is what I have been shooting for,” said Goodman, who underwent hip surgery in March.
This will be Goodman’s third season as the starting placekicker. He has converted just 15-of-32 field goals for his career. CU opponents, meanwhile, have made 37-of-48 the past two years in games against the Buffs. Goodman was 10-for-18 in 2009.
Junior quarterback Tyler Hansen said Goodman “had better step up. We’re tired of driving down the field and you missing the kick. It hurts the morale of the team and the confidence.
“Last year he missed (two) kicks against Nebraska and it was the first time I actually blew up on him on the sideline,” Hansen added. “I got after him a little bit. I felt bad about it (later). But those were valuable points.” Hansen added that Goodman “is a great guy and we all love him” and that he and the team is pulling for Goodman to succeed.
When told of Hansen’s comments, Goodman said he was not offended.
“That doesn’t put any pressure on me,” Goodman said. “I expect to make every kick anyway. Unfortunately, in some cases I haven’t done that.”
Hawkins said Castor will be the backup placekicker against CSU. Kirkwood may get action on kickoffs.
Tom Kensler: 303-954-1280 or tkensler@denverpost.com
