Gano holds off another

Often times in football the kicking game tends to be overlooked, or at least not given much attention. It isn't until clutch time, when a field goal attempt can make or break the game that most tend to truly pay attention.

It's true that these clutch moments can solidify one's legacy as a hero or a dud, but there are so many other factors that play into that moment or any other field goal attempt for that matter. Maybe that is why after another preseason battle this time against a well known name in Neil Rackers, that once again, Graham Gano has won the starting job for the Washington Redskins.

I'm not sure why I'm so high on Gano. The 73% career field goal percentage in the NFL certainly doesn't put him at the top of the list. Maybe it's because as a senior in college for Florida State his name rang in my ear so many times. After all, I am huge Virginia Cavaliers fan which plays in the same conference and although the Wahoos haven't been in true contention for the ACC in several years, a Wahoo often doesn't cheer for the success of his competitors.

Gano was an outstanding college kicker despite being limited to only one year as the Seminoles starting kicker. Now that he's in the NFL, my feelings have changed and I often find myself rooting for his success typically against the opinions of others since I am surrounded by so many Redskins fans in the DMV area.

Last year, Gano missed ten field goals, albeit five of the ten misses failed due to blocks. Thus comes into play the other aspects that are involved in the kicking game, one of them being blocking.

Washington Redskins Tailgate Table (Google Affiliate Ad)

That certainly doesn't take the heat off of Gano but the coaches in Redskins park seem to see the potential in Gano. For as many haters, there are many that like Gano and want to see him get a chance to prove himself. In the NFL, you are only going to get so many chances especially with the talent that is around the league.

Still after beating out Shayne Graham last year, and then holding off Rackers this offseason, Gano will get another chance. This is his time to prove himself and show why he belongs in the league. More than likely there will be no excuses this year and another poor season will lead to an early exit or at least the end of his tenure with Skins.

I, for one, don't see that happening however. I believe in Gano and I believe that this year will be his time to shine and he will show the form that allowed him to convert on more than 90% of his attempts at Florida State. And who knows, he may even win a game or two for the Skins.

Washington Redskins Fedex Field Framed Wall Art (Google Affiliate Ad)