A Stellar Collegiate Career at Colorado School of Mines

During his tenure at the Colorado School of Mines, Doud distinguished himself as one of the premier punters in NCAA Division II. In the 2024 season, he led the nation with an impressive average of 46.6 yards per punt over 41 attempts, amassing a total of 1,909 yards. His performance earned him First-Team All-America honors from multiple organizations, including the Associated Press and the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA). Additionally, Doud was recognized as the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) Special Teams Player of the Year for both 2023 and 2024, underscoring his consistent excellence on the field.

One of the most remarkable highlights of Doud’s 2024 season was an 80-yard punt against West Texas A&M, a testament to his powerful leg and precision. This extraordinary feat not only showcased his ability to flip field position but also demonstrated his potential to be a game-changer in critical situations.

High School Roots and Early Development

Hailing from Parker, Colorado, Doud attended Legend High School, where he showcased versatility as both a wide receiver and punter. His high school career statistics include 77 receptions for 977 yards and 10 touchdowns, complemented by a punting average of 35.2 yards over 87 punts, with a long of 61 yards. Doud’s multifaceted skill set and athleticism were evident early on, laying a strong foundation for his collegiate success.

Transition to Alabama: Filling Big Shoes

The departure of James Burnip, who served as Alabama’s primary punter from 2021 to 2024, left a significant gap in the Crimson Tide’s special teams unit. Burnip’s tenure was marked by reliability and consistency, with an average of 44.9 yards per punt in his final season. Recognizing the need for an experienced and capable successor, Alabama’s coaching staff turned to Doud, whose impressive track record made him a prime candidate to step into this pivotal role.

Competition and Depth in the Punting Unit

Doud’s arrival at Alabama adds depth and sparks healthy competition within the punting unit. He joins three-star freshman punter Alex Asparuhov from San Joaquin Memorial High School in Fresno, California. Asparuhov, rated among the top five punters nationally, boasts a junior year average of 43.5 yards per punt, with a long of 68 yards. The dynamic between the seasoned Doud and the promising Asparuhov is poised to elevate the performance standards of Alabama’s special teams.

Strategic Importance of Special Teams

In football, the significance of special teams cannot be overstated, as they often influence field position and momentum. A proficient punter like Doud can be instrumental in pinning opponents deep in their territory, providing the defense with advantageous conditions. His ability to execute high-pressure punts with precision aligns with Alabama’s emphasis on excellence in all facets of the game.

Looking Ahead: Doud’s Potential Impact

As the Crimson Tide prepare for the 2025 season, Doud’s integration into the team is anticipated to be seamless, given his extensive collegiate experience and proven track record. His performance during spring practices and preseason camps will be closely monitored, as he competes for the starting punter position. Fans and analysts alike are eager to witness how Doud’s powerful leg and strategic punting will contribute to Alabama’s pursuit of continued success on the national stage.

In summary, the acquisition of Blake Doud signifies a strategic enhancement to Alabama’s special teams. His combination of experience, skill, and composure under pressure positions him as a valuable asset, poised to make a significant impact in the upcoming season.