12/29/2011 - PLAYERS TO WATCH: P Shawn Powell would have been the nation's leading punter with a 47.0 yard average, but he does not have enough attempts. Still, he has enabled FSU to lead the nation in net punting. Powell has dropped 43-percent of his kicks inside the opponents' 20. He changed the game against Florida with booming punts the led to FSU's defense being in great field position to thwart the Gators offense. - The Sports Xchange
Shawn Powell averaged 51 yards per punt in high school.
For the past four years, Powell has been one of college football's best punters, as well as a very good holder for placekicks. Average yards per punt grew from 41 in 2008 to 47 in 2011.
Powell possesses a very strong and accurate leg. He can boom the long high one. He can pooch within the 10 yardline with a high degree of accuracy, as well as hit the coffin corner. Experience and production as both a punter and a holder for kicks could justify a Draft pick being spent on Powell in April.
Analysis
Positives - Powerful leg. Gets tremendous distance and hang time. Accurate with the pooch and the coffin corner. Very natural and effective holding for placekicks.
Negatives - Three step punter. Misfires are rare, but do happen.
NFL Comparison: Shane Lechler - Oakland Raiders
--Brad Noel
