Scouting Rutgers: Special Teams

(Picture: www.nj.com)

The Rutgers special teams is a solid unit. They have a veteran kicker in San San Te and with Mohamed Sanu returning kicks, they are always a threat to make something happen. Let's see what they bring to the field for the Bulls and what we can expect in this game. In a game that will have cold conditions, field position will be a key for both sides.

Senior San San Te (5-9 178-pounds) is the starting place kicker for Rutgers. He is just 13 for 21 in field goals this season, hitting a long of 50 yards. Freshman Nick DeLouisa (6-3 196-pounds) is his back-up.

Junior Justin Doerher (5-9 170-pounds) is the starting punter. He has punted 36 times on the season, averaging just 37.9 yards per kick (has a long of 58 yards). He has 16 kicks within the opponents 20-yard line, so field position will be a key factor in the game. Doerher is also the starting kick-off specialist. He has kicked off 45 times averaging 61.4 yards per kick. So look for Lamar to get a chance in the return game. Freshman Anthony DiPaula (6-1 190-pounds) is the reserve punter).

Junior wide receiver Mohamed Sanu (6-2 215-pounds) is the best punt returner for the Knights. He has returned 7 for 42 yards, but is always a threat to break one (big time player for them). Sophomore running back Jeremy Deering (6-2 205-pounds) is the leading kick returner. He has returned 9 kick offs for 272 yards, so expect big time returns from him if the special teams can't get to him. Sophomore defensive back Jordan Thomas (6-1 190-pounds) is the other return man. He has returned 10 kicks for 225 yards.

Overall, the Knights have a solid special teams unit that could determine the game if it's a low scoring contest due to the weather. USF has to play well in all phases of the game if they want to get the win here.