Cullen DeBoer backs up Conor Talty after the whistle

The Alabama Crimson Tide’s dominant 56-0 win over Eastern Illinois in Week 13 should have been a stress-free night for the Crimson Tide. Instead, the the spotlight shifted to sophomore player Connor Taltywhich he once again found alone at the center of the fans’ frustration.

Talty, who entered the game 11-of-17 on field goals this season, missed a 28-yard attempt late in the first quarter, a kick that hit the uprights to extend the lead to 17-0. The misfire drew boos from the Bryant-Denny Stadium crowd, marking the start of a tough night for the young specialist.

Talti later made the extra point, but another whistle followed. Even as Alabama piled up the points behind a strong rushing attack and stifling defensive performance, the story stuck. The Tide eventually turned over the PAT duties to freshman Peter Notaro, who converted his only attempt late in the first half.

After the game, the head coach Cullen DeBoer addressed the situation head-on, offering strong support for Talti when asked about the whistles. He called Alabama fanbase to get behind their batsman.

“I wish they had his back like I know our locker room has his back. DeBoer added context to the effort Talty is putting in behind the scenes, saying, “He’s been working hard and had a great week of practice, I don’t think he’s missed a single one all week and we’d put him all over the place … it’s easy to keep switching off and he just wants everyone’s support and he’s just like any other player on our football team, given everything he’s got.

These remarks served two purposes – to defend their player and to signal that Talti is still likely to start in the following games. That stance will no doubt add to the angst of Alabama fans, as Talty’s lapses have already affected the team’s postseason trajectory.

The Tide (9-2) fell six spots the latest CFP rankings after last week lost by two points to Oklahomaloss that included a costly 36-yard fumble. While DeBoer continues to publicly support his specialist, the pressure surrounding Talti will only increase as the Crimson Tide enters the most critical stretch of the season.

With Auburn (5-6) next in the Iron Bowl, followed by a potential SEC Championship game and a possible College Playoff appearance, Alabama’s margin for error shrinks dramatically.

Cullen DeBoer on fans booing Conor Talty after another missed goal:

“I would like them to protect his back like I know our locker room has his back.” pic.twitter.com/7D2AekKO7v

— Next Round (@NektRoundLive) November 22, 2025