On Saturday, Colorado football kicker Alejandro Mata told the local media that he has improved his field goal range.
Mata was asked directly what he believes his range is entering the 2024 season, to which he replied:
“Right now, I feel comfortable from 53 (yards), 54 and under,” Mata said. “Thanks to coach Mo (head strength and conditioning coach Maurice Sims), I think this is the strongest I’ve ever been.”
Earlier in the press conference, Mata mentioned that television commentators often describe the former Jackson State transfer as a “line drive” or “low trajectory” field goal kicker. He said he worked to improve those areas this offseason, citing his focus in the weight room.
The fan-favorite will help Colorado tremendously if he’s truly comfortable from just beyond 50 yards. The Buffs saw early accuracy woes from original starting field goal kicker Jace Feely last season before relying fully on Mata. And while the then-sophomore stepped up by nailing 10 of his 12 field goal attempts, his only misses were from beyond 40 yards. His farthest make of the season was from 47 yards, but it seemed evident at times that Mata’s lack of range impacted CU’s aggressive decisions on fourth downs just beyond the red zone last season.
While he isn’t expected to be perfect, the Buffs faithful is looking forward to more Mata celebrations in 2024.
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