Over time, the Las Vegas Raiders have built one of the strongest special teams units in the National Football League. Place kicker Daniel Carlson and punter AJ Cole are one of the best in the league at their respective positions.
Both have played an important role in Las Vegas' wins this season at one point or another. Carlson has made all but four of his field goal attempts this season. Cole has pinned opponents deep in their own territory at key moments throughout this season.
Cole is the team's punter, but he is also the holder on Carlson's kicks. Special Teams Coordinator Tom McMahon spoke about the two's dedication in practice to prepare for those important moments.
"These guys work tirelessly to get the same ball," McMahon said. "When I say get the same ball, if you're looking at field goals, get that same ball down. The only way you're going to get it down with no laces, no spinning, is you've just got to work, work, work, work."
McMahon noted the two's overall success didn't come overnight. Both Carlson and Cole have put in the work, along with the rest of the special teams unit, to be successful.
"They're really taking off," McMahon said. "At first, you have to work through those things because it's completely different guys working together."
"I think we've done a great job of it. They've really been accepting of each other and accepting of what one guy can do and what another guy can do."
"They went and merged it, but they're demanding from each other, which is what I like. They push each other, but they do it the right way to help our team produce."
The Raiders have been labeled as a player-led team since Interim Head Coach Antonio Pierce took over. For a unit as valued as the Raiders' punter and kicker, having two of the best at their respective positions feeding off of each other's drive and work ethic is a recipe for success.
The Silver and Black will return home to Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas to take on the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, December 10, at 4:05 p.m. EST/1:05 p.m. PST.
More must-reads: