Detroit Lions Midseason Grades: Special Teams Report Card
By Dean Holden
Don Muhlbach
Oct 20, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions long snapper Don Muhlbach (48) before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Production
The old adage is that nobody knows the long snapper’s name until he makes a mistake. Muhlbach continues to be one of the most anonymous players in the NFL. The only slight hiccup in his performance was the botched field goal attempt against Minnesota. But watch the play again: the ball hits Martin right in the hands, and he just doesn’t handle it. You can see he’s visibly frustrated afterwards. Muhlbach’s snap was perfect, just like all of his snaps.
Grade: A
Impact
Muhlbach doesn’t have any impact on the games. That’s how you know he’s a good long snapper.
Grade: A
Vs. Expectations
Muhlbach was a Pro Bowler last year, and the Lions brought him back to be equally flawless, which he has been.
Grade: A
Overall
Why mess with perfection?
Grade: A