“That's more the other ten guys rather than the returner because I think we have a returner that's very capable and has a chance to make some big plays.” I want to see us be more productive on punt return,” Houston said. “I want to see us be more productive on kickoff return. Both of those are small steps back from the prior two years in terms of production. This year, Snead has yet to break a big one, as he’s averaging 20 yards per kick return and 8.3 yards per punt return. Snead’s returned a kickoff for touchdowns each of the past two seasons, while also providing steady returns on punt return. The redshirt sophomore receiver was a second-team all-conference selection on special teams a year ago, behind Jones, a first-team pick. While Jones is an all-conference return man on Houston’s side, the Pirates also have one in Tyler Snead. “Wouldn't be shocked if he's returning kicks this week also. “He’s returned two for a touchdown, so a dynamic returner,” ECU coach Mike Houston said on Tuesday at his weekly press conference. So, something has to give on Saturday when the Pirates go against the Cougars. Per Pro Football Focus, Young has graded out amongst the best punters in the league with an above average mark of 76.3. The majority of his punts have been either fair caught or downed inside the opposing 20-yard line. Punter Jonn Young has allowed just a net total of 26 return yards this season. In total, he’s averaging 17.4 yards per punt return this season.ĮCU, conversely, has limited opponents to next to no success in the return game. He scored on a 48-yard run back against Grambling State, and a 73-yarder versus Navy. Jones has taken two punts back for touchdowns this year in 14 returns. A preseason All-American pick in the return game by multiple publications after running back a punt for a score last season, Jones has lived up to that billing in 2021. The Cougars have arguably the best punt return man in college football in defensive back Marcus Jones. East Carolina’s punt coverage team has been one of the best in college football this season, but the unit will face its biggest test on Saturday against Houston.

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