Many sports bettors and handicappers always seem to overlook the impact that special teams can have on the outcome of a team. For starters, a good kickoff return and punt return team can rack up hidden yardage for your offense and play a major factor in the battle for good field position. A return that goes the distance puts points up on the board in a hurry and that’s what winning games as well as winning wagers is all about. On the other side of the coin, kickers and punters that can bury the opponent deep are the type of guys I want on my team. Field position is so crucial and if you have specialists who can lengthen the field for the defense, you are in business.

While on the subject of kickers, how many times have you had to sweat field goals in order to get the cover? My answer is many times and missed scoring opportunities by special units can determine whether or not you cover the spread. Here at NFL-Picks.com, handicapper Ryan Dreyden is a firm believer in examining every part of a football game and certainly does not overlook the importance of superior special teams play. A game that features two teams that match up equally offensively and defensively can be decided by who performs better in the special teams department. If you try handicapping yourself, look for teams that have the edge in return yards, net punt, and field goal accuracy. Remember a kicker who can kick from deep is another added bonus. All the offensive has to do is get him close and points are on the scoreboard.

Teams that play good special teams are always teams that I have my eye on. Specials teams is one of those things that flies under the radar and doesn’t get a whole lot of attention but must be taken seriously when handicapping a football game.