Patriots Punter Ryan Allen Back at Practice
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Some good news on this Wednesday, as it appears the Patriots won't have to go shopping for a punter this week.
According to Shalise Manza Young, Ryan Allen was back at practice during the media portion of Wedensday's practice session. That's good news for New England, as field position will likely be a key component of this weekend's game and Allen certainly gives them their best chance to win. The left footed Allen played a part in the last victory against the Broncos, hitting some big punts that made Denver play with a long field, as well as the fact it was his kick high kick on that windy night that bounced and hit a Broncos player to help set up the victory for the Patriots back in November.
Allen's return also hopefully alleviates the need for Tom Brady to hold on field goal and extra point attempts, which was something he ended up having to do last Saturday night after Allen went out. The veteran quarterback admitted after the game that he hadn't held since back in college, but he made it look fairly easy as there weren't any problems on the exchange or any of the holds and Stephen Gostkowski hit all of his attempts.
The rookie had a solid first season. According to ProFootballFocus.com he finished 16th in the league in total punting yards with 3467 and was also first in the NFL with 12 touchbacks.
