PHX Reporter

Before each game, the Arizona Cardinals staff compiles a list of focus areas to guide them to victory. A consistent element on this list is special teams.

"It's one of the main reasons we're winning games right now," said coach Jonathan Gannon. "There's some guys that are playing big-time snaps for us on special teams."

The team's core group of specialists, including kicker Chad Ryland, long snapper Aaron Brewer, and punter/holder Blake Gillikin (and kicker Matt Prater before his knee injury), have delivered strong performances. Brewer has maintained perfect snaps, while Ryland's clutch kicks have earned him NFC Special Teams Player of the Month honors. Gillikin has successfully placed six out of his last seven punts inside the 15-yard line.

"The field-position game is huge," Gannon noted. "When you make them go 80, 85, 90 yards all day, it's an advantage for you and the defense. (Gillikin's) a weapon for us."

Last season, Gillikin set a franchise record with a 50.6-yard average on punts. This year, while his average is lower due to fewer opportunities from deep in their own territory, his skill at flipping field position remains evident.

"Once we get towards the 50, that's kind of a strong part of my game," Gillikin explained. "We work on it every Thursday in practice with the gunners."

Special teams' importance goes beyond cliché for the Cardinals as key players contribute significantly to its success. Defensive starters like cornerbacks Max Melton and Starling Thomas V participate in field-goal blocks while offensive linemen join Ryland's field-goal attempts.

"We have guys with good attitudes and good work ethic," said special teams coordinator Jeff Rodgers. "They understand that for a guy to go and down a ball inside; that's a big play."

Coach Gannon emphasized this point: "'If you're a starter on offense and defense, you don't play special teams.' That's not what it is here."

Melton expressed excitement about being drafted by the Cardinals due to their emphasis on special teams: "It's 33 percent of the game," he stated.

The Cardinals' commitment to complimentary football continues making an impact as they've pinned opponents at critical points during recent games.

Gillikin praised Melton's dedication: "To see the commitment (Melton) has towards special teams... I know I have somebody I can count on." He added that special teams are always highlighted as their first winning edge during team meetings.

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