The Arkansas Razorbacks have made a significant addition to their 2024 recruiting class, flipping highly-regarded kicker Scott Starzyk from the Iowa Hawkeyes. Starzyk, a standout specialist from St. Louis, Missouri, had been committed to Iowa since July but announced on November 26 that he would instead be heading to Fayetteville to play for Arkansas.
This commitment is a major win for head coach Sam Pittman and special teams coordinator Scott Fountain, who have placed a renewed emphasis on bolstering the Razorbacks’ special teams unit. Starzyk is widely regarded as one of the top kickers in the 2024 class, and his decision to join Arkansas provides the program with a critical piece for the future.
Scott Starzyk has established himself as a premier kicking prospect during his high school career at Parkway West High School in St. Louis. Known for his powerful leg and precision, Starzyk has consistently displayed the ability to convert field goals from 50+ yards, while also excelling in kickoffs with hang time and distance.
In his senior season, Starzyk made 14 of 16 field goal attempts, with a long of 54 yards, and went a perfect 36-for-36 on extra-point attempts. Additionally, his ability to pin opponents deep with touchbacks on kickoffs has been a valuable asset for his team.
Starzyk’s consistency and composure under pressure have made him one of the most sought-after specialists in the country. His reputation as a reliable kicker earned him offers from several Power Five programs, but Iowa initially won the battle for his commitment.
Special teams play a crucial role in college football, and Arkansas has struggled to find consistency in its kicking game in recent years. Missed field goals and inconsistent kickoffs have been a source of frustration for the Razorbacks, often costing the team valuable points and field position.
By landing a talent like Starzyk, Arkansas is addressing one of its most glaring weaknesses. His skill set not only brings reliability to field goal situations but also helps ensure better kickoff coverage and the ability to flip field position.
Head coach Sam Pittman emphasized the importance of special teams when discussing Starzyk’s commitment.
“Kickers don’t always get the headlines, but they win games,” Pittman said. “Scott is an exceptional talent who can make a big difference for us in close games. We’re thrilled to have him on board.”
Starzyk’s decision to flip his commitment from Iowa to Arkansas came after an official visit to Fayetteville earlier this month. According to sources close to the situation, the Razorbacks’ coaching staff made a strong impression on Starzyk, highlighting the program’s culture, facilities, and vision for the future.
Special teams coordinator Scott Fountain played a key role in the recruitment, building a strong relationship with Starzyk and emphasizing how he could immediately contribute to the team.
“Iowa is a great program, but Arkansas just felt like home,” Starzyk said in his announcement. “Coach Pittman and Coach Fountain believe in me, and I’m excited to be a part of what they’re building here. I can’t wait to get to work and help this team win.”
Starzyk’s commitment is another positive step for a Razorbacks program that is looking to bounce back after a challenging season. While much of the focus in recruiting is placed on skill positions and linemen, securing a reliable kicker is just as important for long-term success.
With Starzyk in the fold, Arkansas can look forward to improved special teams play in the coming years. His ability to handle high-pressure situations and deliver points in tight games could be the difference-maker the Razorbacks need as they aim to climb the SEC standings.
Razorback fans took to social media to celebrate Starzyk’s flip, with many praising the coaching staff for addressing a key area of need. The commitment also sends a message to other recruits that Arkansas is serious about building a complete and competitive team.
“Flipping Starzyk from Iowa is a huge win for us,” one fan posted on Twitter. “Special teams matter, and this kid is a game-changer.”
As Arkansas continues to build its 2024 class, landing Scott Starzyk is a reminder of the importance of recruiting specialists. Starzyk’s commitment not only strengthens the Razorbacks’ roster but also underscores the program’s commitment to improving in all phases of the game.
For now, Arkansas fans can celebrate the addition of one of the nation’s top kickers. With Starzyk on board, the Razorbacks are one step closer to turning close losses into victories, thanks to the reliable leg of their new special teams star.