Clark makes Ray Guy Award midseason watch list

Florida senior punter Alec Clark was named Thursday to the Ray Guy Award Midseason Watch List, according to the school and the Augusta Sports Council. Clark is among 63 candidates selected from 100 nominees for the award honoring the nation’s top punter.

In his first season with the Gators, the Perth, Australia, native has punted 26 times for 1,248 yards, averaging 48.00 yards per attempt. Eleven punts have finished inside the 20-yard line, while 10 have traveled 50 or more yards.

Clark’s 42.46-yard net punting average ranks third in the SEC and 19th in the FBS. Net average receives particular emphasis in the award’s evaluation, along with the percentage of punts downed inside the 20 and the percentage that are not returned.

His top performance came at No. 7 Texas, where he punted six times for 311 yards and averaged 51.83 yards. That outing included a career-long 75-yard punt, two punts inside the 20 and two attempts of 50 or more yards.

The Ray Guy Award Committee will choose 10 semifinalists, who will be announced Nov. 13. A national voting body made up of FBS sports information directors, media representatives and former Ray Guy Award winners will then select three finalists before voting again on the winner.

The award presentation is Dec. 11. It will take place during The Home Depot College Football Awards. Clark’s immediate assignment comes Saturday, when No. 24/25 Florida hosts Oklahoma at 7:45 p.m. The Gators are 5-3 overall and 3-3 in SEC play, while the Sooners are 4-4 and 2-3 in the conference.

Why it matters

Clark’s placement among 63 midseason candidates recognizes a season in which he is averaging 48.00 yards per punt. His ability to limit field position has included 11 punts inside the 20-yard line and 10 of 50 or more yards.

What to watch next

The 10 semifinalists will be announced Nov. 13. Clark and Florida first host Oklahoma on Nov. 7 at 7:45 p.m.