Oakland Raiders: 5 positive takeaways from three-game slide
By John Buhler
Marquette King and Giorgio Tavecchio have been spectacular on special teams
Outside of that strange play call to run a fake punt in Week 4 versus Denver, the Oakland Raiders have looked very good on special teams. So much of that falls on the great player the Silver and Black are getting out of punter Marquette King and rookie kicker Giorgio Tavecchio.
King might be the best punter in football. Rarely do you see him boot it in the end zone for a touchback. Not only is he getting great distance and hang time, but he’s placing the ball exactly where he wants to. He’s got great feel for his craft and is helping the Raiders’ defense out big time.
Tavecchio had the tall task of replacing long-time Raiders kicker Sebastian Janikowski, who remains on injured reserve with a herniated disc in his back. To this point, Tavecchio hasn’t missed a field goal attempt or a PAT. The stage isn’t too big for him and he can deliver a clutch kick when the Raiders call his number.
These two special teams players have really masked a few inefficiencies on this team. King gives the defense plenty of grass behind them to work with on booming kicks. Tavecchio can give the Raiders three points to keep themselves within striking distance in the game. Just be thankful the Raiders aren’t the 2017 Tampa Bay Buccaneers right now on special teams.