Who will win the KO/PR job this year?

DuddyB

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I believe the reports are that Lutmer is taking the bulk of the punt returns in practice right now. I think the battle is between him and KJ Parker for kick returns if I'm remembering correctly.
I know this might be unpopular, but I would rather see somebody besides the defensive backs returning punts and kickoffs. Especially ones that are important as Lutmer.
 

Lionhawk85

Junior
Jun 8, 2022
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i don’t have a strong opinion against it being a DB in general, but I wouldn’t want to risk a Lutmer unless he’s clearly head and shoulders above the rest like a DeJean level. Defensive depth is a concern this year (imo). So my comment is more about - if all else is equal, sure would prefer someone else step up. Other than the names already mentioned, what about a Brevin Doll?

Honestly it appears we are light on candidates to step in this year - hence why Lutmer is a strong consideration.
 

chipackhawk

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Jan 10, 2018
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I know this might be unpopular, but I would rather see somebody besides the defensive backs returning punts and kickoffs. Especially ones that are important as Lutmer.
Good thing they didn't take that philosophy when they had Cooper DeJean returning punts? Punt returns can change the flow of the game. Minus your top running back and maybe WR, whoever else you have that can be a game breaker, put them back there.
 

DuddyB

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Good thing they didn't take that philosophy when they had Cooper DeJean returning punts? Punt returns can change the flow of the game. Minus your top running back and maybe WR, whoever else you have that can be a game breaker, put them back there.
Conversely, if they had left him at defense, he probably finishes the season. If Lutmer ends up being at that level, I guess it’s worth the risk but all of our running backs and wide receivers are more replaceable than Lutmer. Doll seems like a good possibility.
 
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HMB Trumpet

Senior
Mar 19, 2018
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One advantage to having DBs return punts is that you've got the regular defense on the field in case its a fake. Of course, the person also needs to be a capable returner, like DeJean and Desmond King.
 
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Outbackbowl2017

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One advantage to having DBs return punts is that you've got the regular defense on the field in case it’s a fake. Of course, the person also needs to be a capable returner, like Wetjen, DeJean and Desmond King.
FIFY.

Don’t leave out the All American. 😜
 

HMB Trumpet

Senior
Mar 19, 2018
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If your punt returner is making the tackle, it was a successful fake with some missed tackles to boot.
That's often true, but some fake punts are pass plays. The return guy may end up in coverage or needing to make an open-field tackle on a wide open receiver. There are also some other, atypical situations where it helps to have the PR be a DB.

But, as I noted, the guy has to be a capable returner and we've had at least two DBs who were.
 

BunchofAholes

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Jul 9, 2025
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If your punt returner is making the tackle, it was a successful fake with some missed tackles to boot.
Not to mention that it's pretty far down the list of factors to consider. The frequency of fake punt attempts is between 1-2% of all punts attempted. Meaning it happens on average one time all season.
 

silasstarr

Sophomore
Aug 25, 2003
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I think KJ Parker is going to have a breakout year and he will be returning punts and/or KOs. It will be interesting to see if there is a drop in ST play with Woods now at MSU. Woods' teams were really dialed in together.
 
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