Stud: Special teams

In a close game, special teams can very well be the deciding factor. The Ravens got everything they could from their special teams units, coming up with big plays at the end of the first half and later in the game.

Baltimore cornerback Marlon Humphrey getting the block on a 51-yard field goal attempt at the end of the first half had the Ravens go into the locker room with a three-point lead.

Then with the game all tied up at the end of the third quarter, Baltimore’s special teams made two huge plays. A perfect punt by Sam Koch had the ball bouncing around inside San Francisco’s five-yard line. A combined effort by Levine and Moore that downed it at the one-yard line. Then on the subsequent punt return, De’Anthony Thomas weaved through would-be tacklers to get 18 yards and start the Ravens on the 40-yard line.

With the game close and on the line, the lack of three points was clearly critical to the win. The great play in the second half helped the defense out and ultimately gave the offense much better field position, giving them the chance to go for the win at the end.