At the beginning of the season, one could argue no coach needed a strong 2024 as badly as Chase Blackburn. The scrutinized special teams coordinator was constantly questioned for having one of the worst kicking units in football.
Over the course of the season, Joshua Karty’s struggles and the hiring of Scott Frost poured gasoline on the flames that encumbered his seat. However, Blackburn currently sits as an NFC West champion with one of the most intriguing punting units in football and the kicking game finally seeing some consistency.
Ethan Evans is tied for the eighth-most punts downed inside the 20-yard line and with Xavier Smith’s new role as a gunner, the amount of fair catches by opponents should start to rise.
Smith himself has carved out a role as a gunner and returner, a credit to Blackburn’s work and vision. On kick returns, Jordan Whittington has found a home and contributed in a big way, providing a spark every time he touches the ball.
Joshua Karty still has a long way to go in order to emulate his production at Stanford. He is still missing PATs but he’s been perfect on field goals over the last four games. That’s nine makes in nine attempts, including a 53-yard field goal that played a massive part in defeating Arizona.
With Frost’s departure to UCF and the play of the special teams unit, Blackburn looks to have sealed his future in Los Angeles.
