The redshirt-senior and current program leader in punting average (42.5) – Mason King, earns our 25th spot on the list. King proved his worth during the midst of Louisville’s struggles on offense – ,continuing to evolve into one of the most dangerous punters in the country, landing at 20th in the country with 69 punts for an average of 40.6 yards per punt.
Although that number should be lowered this season, Louisville still has a challenging schedule where they will need King’s experience to get them out of situations. People often forget how much help a punter can provide his defense with pinning an offense within their own 20 on the other side of the field. King has shown the ability to do that consistently, without a defense being able to take advantage of it, however.
Combine King’s seniority and talent with Coach Satterfield’s ‘three equal phases of the game’ appreciation and approach for special teams, and you have a recipe for good things this season.
I like what BRL’s own Jacob Lane had to say about it in his article:
"“Louisville’s biggest need for improvement will be in covering kick-offs, and punts as they were statistically one of the worst teams in the ACC last year and also had some weird philosophies. Under Stu Holt, expect that all to change and for Louisville to take a huge step forward on special teams.”"
Even if you didn’t click on his link, he rated the special teams as the strongest position on the team – and King is a big factor in that.
There is a lot get excited about this upcoming season, and the improved special teams play should be towards the top of everyone’s list.