Detroit Lions, NFC North Position Rankings: Kickers and Punters

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DETROIT, MI – OCTOBER 25: Sam Martin #6 of the Detroit Lions kicks the football during an NFL game against the Minnesota Vikings at Ford Field on October 25, 2015 in Detroit, Michigan. The Vikings defeated the Lions 28-19. (Photo by Dave Reginek/Getty Images) /

1. Detroit Lions

The number one choice shouldn’t come as a surprise to a Detroit Lions fan. Since punter Sam Martin and kicker Matt Prater have joined Detroit they have both been outstanding.

Martin might actually be the best punter in the NFL right now. The only reason he isn’t talked about like Oakland Raiders punter Marquette King is because he doesn’t have the same type of flash. Martin’s leg strength and ball placement are outstanding. This combination led to a 48.5 average and 23 punts placed inside of the 20. I’m certain that we haven’t seen the last of Martin saving the Lions from terrible field position.

Prater meanwhile is at his best in two situations, long kicks and clutch moments. I mentioned prior how important a make is from 50 yards out, and last season Prater was 7-7 on those. Prater kicking that many from that distance just shows how much Detroit trusts them in big moments.

As for his clutchness…

Matt Prater: 23-of-23 in career on game-tying or go-ahead FG attempts in the 4th quarter or OT after his 58-yard make
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) November 6, 2016

Next: NFC North Position Rankings - Safeties

Yeah, that really says it all.

The Martin/Prater tandem is without a doubt the best in the division. And honestly, I don’t think there is a duo that’s better than these two right now in the entire league.

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