Dennis Allen has full confidence in Blake Grupe as the Saints starting kicker. Grupe won his competition over International Player Pathways rookie Charlie Smyth. Smyth repeatedly showed off his leg strength with multiple field goals of more than 60 yards in practice and in pregame as well. Allen made it clear that wouldn’t decide the battle, though.
When asked about the decision to keep Grupe over Smyth, Allen gave a strong endorsement of Grupe that extends into the previous season. “I like Blake Grupe. I thought this last year. I think it again this year. When he’s gotten into the games, he’s made the kicks he’s needed to make.”
Allen continues by saying, “I think he’s been consistent in practice. I’ve seen an improved player even from where he was at this point last year. I feel very confident about that.”
Allen described everything you’d want in a kicker, a consistent, dependable player. Grupe will need to deliver on this belief. There were some question marks a year ago, but if he can make the kicks he needs to make then he should wipe away doubt that Allen made the right call.
