As the margins for victory become thinner in the Playoffs, the role of STs looms larger.
The Punter that gets the ball off quicker, and can place the ball accurately, becomes huge.
The Kicker that doesn't wilt under the intense pressure as the game outcome hinges on one swipe of a leg becomes, for a moment, the most important man on the team.
Punt returners that are sure handed are gold.
ST's players that do their jobs, and usually are back of the roster players, get their turn to shine or flop.
It's why if you can find reliable Kickers and Punters.... and especially the exceptional ones.... you find a way to keep them. Yes, it involves paying them. But if you have realistic Playoff aspirations, the odds are high that you need both to win.
Matt Gay made himself some money last night, and he didn't even play.