Punter debate

[offiss]

Originally Posted by EEich

I think Tupa still may have a good year in him... but he's getting old, has a cranky back and is wearing down. There's a good chance that he may not be able to stay healthy this year.

Groom has a big leg... his big negative is that he sometimes outkicks the coverage and doesn't have the touch that Tupa has. That will come with experience. He is a young guy and could be our punter for the next 5+ years.

Gibbs isn't the kind of guy that runs alot of punter fake plays... heck, he doesn't even like the shotgun formation, so I really don't see that being an issue.

I think Groom is our best bet.

Actually EE, I have to disagree there, Gibbs ran his fair share of fakes his first go round, Hayes was a fast guy for a punter and Gibbs used that on occasion, he also would quick snap to Mitchell on occasion, he was also king of the onside kick when teams weren't looking for it.

I do agree with you on Groom though I think the youth movement should win out, the way this kid has been kicking I don't see him having much trouble finding a team if we let him go.

It sound's like to me Gibbs really likes Tupa, and if Tupa is healthy he's the man, but between his back and Groom bombing the ball he's in a tough spot, Groom has some work to do as far as directional, and situational punting, but I would go with him, he will eventually come around. If we stick with Tupa and his back starts acting up again, we could be in trouble because I don't believe Groom will be available once he's cut.