Since college punters have been in the news lately (chuckle:) - perhaps a look at Ohio State's punt team might be of interest. Cameron Johnston is currently ranked 6th nationally with 46.3 average (gross) yards per punt. And while that's an impressive individual statistic, perhaps the more telling stat is actually net punting.
In this category the Buckeyes (as a team) are ranked 5th nationally (according to ncaa statistics*) with an average of 42.24 yards per punt. The advantage this gives OSU over a team like - oh, let's say - Rutgers, is worthy of note.
The Scarlet Knights are ranked 80th nationally, averaging 37.0 yards per punt. Sure, a difference of only 5 yards per punt may not seem like much - but since both teams are averaging around five punts per game, the numbers can become a little bit more significant.
Put it this way: The Buckeyes would love to be averaging 25 more yards per game than they are on offense (or 25 ypg fewer on defense). With this advantage, it's reasonable to think OSU may effectively have something in the neighborhood of a 25 yard advantage in field position over the course of the game - from the punting game, alone.
These hidden yards can really add up when considering some other aspects of the kicking game as well. For example, Ohio State is also ranked in the top ten nationally in kick-off return defense.
Even if it's just an advantage of a few yards per play in these categories, there is a cumulative effect. For instance, say it's "only" another 25 yard edge over the course of the game in kick-off coverage this Saturday. Well, that's another 25 yards. A 50 yard or more advantage in total "hidden yards" - is big. It could easily be a deciding factor in an otherwise close game.
It also seems the Buckeyes have been "knocking at the door" at breaking a big punt and/or kick-off return. Yet another, though more obvious, difference maker.
Of course, this numeric advantage can all be completely wiped out by penalties. Ohio State has been averaging more than seven penalties per game. Something that must get cleaned up if the team hopes to reach its goals. But that's another story.
Just a little something extra to keep in mind as the season progresses -
