Miamis Punting Battle Comes Downtoa Defining Detail Hang Time

Published in Sports and Competition on Wednesday, August 20th 2025 at 0:47 GMT by South Florida Sun Sentinel
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The Miami Dolphins' training camp has been rife with position battles, but one that’s drawn particular attention is the competition for the punter role. While veteran Thomas Morsette initially held the advantage, rookie Jake Miller has steadily closed the gap, forcing head coach Mike McDaniel to meticulously evaluate both contenders. The decision, it seems, hinges on a surprisingly specific factor: hang time.

The original article on Yahoo Sports details how the Dolphins are approaching this unusual situation, highlighting the nuances that separate Morsette and Miller beyond simple distance or leg speed. Both punters possess strong legs capable of booming kicks downfield. However, McDaniel and his coaching staff have been intensely focused on analyzing the trajectory and ultimate hang time – the amount of time the ball remains in the air before being caught by the returner – of each punt.

Morsette, a seasoned veteran with five years of NFL experience, initially appeared to be the clear frontrunner. His consistency and familiarity within the team’s system provided an immediate advantage. He's known for his reliable technique and ability to place punts strategically. However, Miller, a rookie out of Colorado State, has been steadily improving throughout camp, demonstrating surprising power and a knack for creating difficult returns.

The key differentiator, according to special teams coordinator Danny Crossman, isn’t just how far the ball travels but how it gets there. “It's not just about booming it,” Crossman explained in the article. "It's about getting the right hang time and placement.” This emphasis on hang time reflects a broader trend in NFL special teams strategy – prioritizing pinning opponents deep within their own territory, even if it means sacrificing some distance. A higher hang time gives the coverage team more time to get downfield and prevent a returner from gaining significant yardage.

Miller’s emergence has been particularly noteworthy because his punts often possess a unique characteristic: a high, arcing trajectory that results in extended hang times. This makes it difficult for returners to judge their timing and allows the Dolphins' coverage team ample opportunity to make tackles before any substantial gain. While Morsette’s kicks are generally more directional and sometimes travel further, Miller’s ability to consistently produce longer hang times has made him a serious contender.

The article highlights specific drills and evaluations used by the coaching staff to assess both punters. They meticulously measure hang time using specialized technology and analyze film footage frame-by-frame. The process isn't just about numbers; it involves observing how each punt affects the returner’s decision-making and the overall field position.

McDaniel has repeatedly emphasized that the competition is beneficial for both players, pushing them to improve their performance. He acknowledges the difficulty of choosing between two capable punters but insists the decision will be based solely on what's best for the team. The article suggests that while Morsette’s experience remains valuable, Miller’s potential impact on special teams play – particularly his ability to create advantageous hang times – is proving increasingly difficult to ignore.

The Dolphins’ situation isn’t unique; many NFL teams are placing greater emphasis on specialized skills within their punter selection process. The focus has shifted from simply finding a player who can kick the ball far to identifying someone who can strategically manipulate the game through punt placement and hang time. This nuanced approach underscores the evolving importance of special teams in modern football, where even seemingly minor advantages can significantly impact game outcomes.

Ultimately, the decision on who will be the Dolphins’ punter rests with McDaniel and Crossman. They are weighing experience against potential, consistency against a unique skillset. While Morsette's established reliability provides comfort, Miller's ability to consistently generate longer hang times is forcing them to seriously consider the rookie’s impact on the team’s special teams strategy. The final decision will likely come down to which punter best embodies the Dolphins’ vision for their punt game – a vision increasingly defined by the crucial metric of hang time. The article concludes that the competition remains open, with both players continuing to work hard and demonstrate their value. Fans and analysts alike are eagerly awaiting McDaniel's final decision, recognizing that it will not only determine who handles punting duties but also reflect the Dolphins’ evolving approach to special teams play in the NFL.

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Miamis Punting Battle Comes Downtoa Defining Detail Hang Time