Miami (Ohio) football coach Chuck Martin unloaded on Alabama, saying they illegally pilfered the nation’s top kicker from their squad. The comments have raised questions about Alabama recruiting practices.
Kicker Graham Nicholson transferred to Alabama following the 2023 collegiate football season. Nicholson won the Lou Groza Award in 2023.
The Lou Groza Award is presented annually to the top college football placekicker in America.
Martin was asked by a reporter about the situation and immediately took issue with the characterization that Miami ‘lost’ Nicholson to Alabama.
“We didn’t lose him. He’s at Alabama. We know exactly where he’s at,” Martin replied. “Again, you media people – it’s all pretend. Like, no. Alabama stole our kicker.”
Alabama Accused Of Serious Recruiting Violation
Coach Martin then amped up his comments, flat-out accusing Alabama and by extension, new coach Kalen DeBoer, of serious recruiting violations.
“They illegally recruited our kicker and stole him from us. That’s a fact, and that’s college. We act like it’s not,” the clearly peeved Miami coach revealed.
“We live in this la-la world, like, ‘Hey, let’s not talk reality.’ I don’t know why. Everybody knows what’s going on,” he added. “Yeah, Alabama stole our kicker.”
Martin went on to say “a couple of other schools tried to steal” Nicholson.
Impossible not to love @Martin_Miami_HC. Alabama stole our kicker! Let's call it what it is! pic.twitter.com/kd64PMXPwk
— Jed DeMuesy (@JedDeMuesy) August 22, 2024
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Is This Going To Blow Up?
Graham Nicholson is a much-needed replacement for Alabama after losing Will Reichard to the NFL. The strategic Alabama recruiting move addressed their kicking needs after Reichard was drafted in the 6th round by the Minnesota Vikings.
He is the all-time NCAA Division I FBS scoring leader. Nicholson potentially fills a huge void at the position.
Some fans on social media praised Miami’s coach for speaking out on the disparity between powerhouse schools and mid-level universities.
“Top-tier stuff from a head coach,” ESPN’s Ben Baby said. “Need more of this in college football.”
Others suggested his comments amounted to sour grapes. Regardless, the allegations are quite serious.
Will the NCAA, who allowed Michigan to continue their run to a national championship unabated despite a cheating scandal, actually investigate Alabama recruiting practices?
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