Not sure why but Kickers never seem to get a star rating from the recruiting services, why is that? Sander Sahaydak is rated by some as the #1 kicker in the 2021 class.
They get no respect/value. But lose a game to UVA by missing 3 or 4 Fieldgoals and you will get death threats and be on suicide watch. Maybe because they develop late? Maybe coaches are wrong? Many are walk-ons or preferred walk-ons and we have the attitude that one will pan out.
I think Moneyball might value them better. Give me a touchback every time.
As far as returning punts, I'm statistically ok saying fair catch it and don't block in the back. Don't return them until it is time to take a risk.
And blocking punts? You better see something to take advantage of, I hate roughing the kicker first downs although last year our punter seemed fair game.
Blake was a great punter but he did have a few shanks when the games were on the line. From what I remember the best kickers usually get 3*
