Remember when the Ravens Special Teams always seemed to make at least one big play every game? Often in a tight game the special teams unit can be the difference so let’s not overlook this part of the team.
In case you missed Parts I and II, let me restate how this article was written. This article analyzes the disparity in key statistical categories between the 2005 Ravens and the twelve teams that made the playoffs. I compiled stats on Offense, Defense and Special Teams and found the average of the 2005 playoff teams. I then compared those averages to the stats of the 2005 Ravens.
While the 2005 Ravens Offense was dismal and the Defense was very good, the Special Teams were somewhere in the middle. Let’s go inside the numbers.
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SPECIAL TEAMS
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Statistic
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2005 Playoff teams average
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2005 Ravens
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% Difference (+ / -)
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Punt Return Avg.
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8.2
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11.1
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+35%
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Touchbacks
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6.9
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9.0
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+30%
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Kick return Avg.
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21.8
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21.5
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-1%
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Punts Avg.
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42.8
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40.5
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-6%
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Punts Inside 20 yard line
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23.7
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12.0
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-98%
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Are you thinking what I’m thinking…no wonder the Ravens said see you later to Dave Zastudil. Can rookie Sam Koch consistently get the ball inside the 20 yard line? The numbers above say the Special Teams unit was solid, if not shining. You can bet new Special Teams coach Frank Gansz, Jr. will get his group to turn at least one game sometime this year.
And here’s one last statistic that might interest you. Last year playoff teams averaged just over five road wins. With one road win already, it’s nice to see some things are looking better already!
