Last year the 49ers were good in the kicking part of special teams, but not so much in returns. They didnt run back any punts or kickoffs for a td and the tandem return team of Michael Lewis and Nate Clemens only averaged 8.6 yards per attempt.
Veteran return man Allan Rossum has been added this year. Speed is part of Rossum's game.
Punter Andy Lee was one of the top punters last year with an average of 47.3 yards. per kick. He had 42 punts inside the opposition's 20 yard line. Those stats are bittersweet because it means:
1. he is accurate
2. he had to punt a lot because of the offense
Kicker Joe Nedney is consistent but doesnt have the leg he once possessed. Still he is accurate and connected on all 16 of his FG attempts within 50 yards. Beyond 50 he hit only 1 in 3.
Rossum's speed, Nedney's consistency, and Lee's strong accurate leg should result in an improved San Francisco special teams.
But the offense needs to hold up its end.
"San Francisco 49ers should Be better on special teams in '08 - Realfootball365.com
That offense is a big question mark at this point.
07-15-2008, 08:29 PM
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