Matt Ruffolo officially announces return to Kentucky for 2022 season
Kentucky’s placekicker isn’t going anywhere. After plenty of speculation, Matt Ruffolo confirmed that he will run it back and use his COVID-19 eligibility waiver to kick field goals for one more season at the University of Kentucky.
Kentucky signed Danville native Jackson Smith in December. Instead of forcing the freshman to perform in the clutch right away, he can ease his way into punting duties before fully focusing his attention on placekicking.
Ruffolo, known by some as the Wildcats’ “Spicy Italian Meatball,” has been a beacon of consistency for the Wildcats. Last year he made 10-of-12 field goal attempts and 54-of-55 PATs. His 54 made PATs are a new school record, and he has hit five straight field goals. He’s made 81% of his career field goal attempts and has two from 50 yards away.
Consistency is key, especially in scoring territory. Ruffolo’s return ensures that encouraging drives deep into enemy territory will at the very least end with three points on the scoreboard.
Spring practice starts next week. There are only 183 days until Ruffolo helps the Cats kick off the 2022 season at Kroger Field.
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