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The ‘Wolfpack’ continues to stay consistent in Baltimore

By Joe Schiller

BALTIMORE, MD - NOVEMBER 6: Kicker Justin Tucker #9 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates with teammate long snapper Morgan Cox #46 after kicking a third goal field goal against the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium on November 6, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images)
BALTIMORE, MD - NOVEMBER 6: Kicker Justin Tucker #9 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates with teammate long snapper Morgan Cox #46 after kicking a third goal field goal against the Pittsburgh Steelers at M&T Bank Stadium on November 6, 2016 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) /
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The Baltimore Ravens’ special teams trio of Justin Tucker, Sam Koch, and Morgan Cox have quietly been one of the best in the NFL

Consistency is hard to find in the NFL. Through injuries, contract negotiations and overall job security, roster spots are never guaranteed. That holds especially true for the special teamers where kickers, punters, and long snappers play for their jobs every game. At the highest level of football, there’s no room for error and one slipup could be career-ending.

Since 2012, the Baltimore Ravens have had the luxury of a consistent special teams unit under coach Jerry Rosburg. They rank as one of the league’s top units year in and year out, thanks largely in part to the special teams trio of placekicker Justin Tucker, punter Sam Koch, and long snapper Morgan Cox.

Dubbed “The Wolfpack,” you won’t find a more dominant group on a weekly basis. Going on their seventh season, the three rank at the top of their respective positions. Koch, the oldest and veteran of the group, hasn’t missed a single game since entering the NFL in 2006. The 35-year old is the textbook definition of a specialist and can pin down an opposing offense with ease. Koch led the league in that statistic last season with 40 punts downed inside the 20-yard line. When called upon, he can even double as the emergency backup quarterback.

Tucker’s production at the tee speaks for itself. He’s currently the most accurate kicker in NFL history (90.17%) and has never missed an extra point attempt in his collegiate or professional career. In an age where rule changes continue to make life more difficult for kickers, Tucker continues to excel. He’s automatic from just about anywhere inside 60 yards and has been the Ravens’ top offensive weapon more times than not.

Cox doesn’t have the luxury of showing up in the scoresheet very often but his snaps are integral to the storied success of Koch and Tucker. The punts and field goals don’t happen without a perfect snap every time.

The group name highlights the chemistry present with this unit. The relationship on and off the field plays an integral part in the trio’s success.

Next: 42 Baltimore Ravens who should be safe from the roster bubble

While the Ravens have made a number of offseason changes, they rest comfortably knowing their special teams unit is as consistent as they come.

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