/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/53029037/usa_today_9531340.0.jpg)
Michigan-native and graduate transfer punter Ryan Anderson officially joined Rutgers on Wednesday, signing his National Letter of Intent to join the Scarlet Knights.
#RUK17IGHTED pic.twitter.com/y7urxB7k1b
— Rutgers Football (@RFootball) February 1, 2017
Anderson is extremely important to this class given last year’s special teams struggles. Head Coach Chris Ash and his staff searched far and wide for a veteran punter that could make an immediate impact on special teams, and ultimately landed two-time Division 3 All-American graduate transfer from Olivett College, Anderson.
In addition to being named a two-time Division 3 All-American, Anderson holds the NCAA Division 3 single season record averaging 46.2 yards per punt. Of his 47 punts, nine went for touchbacks, 18 of his punts went for 50 yards or more (long of 65 yards). Additionally, he pinned his opponents inside the twenty yard-line 15 times.
While punters Michael Cintron and Gavin Haggerty will be returning next season, I anticipate veteran punter Ryan Anderson to win the starting job come spring. Last season the Scarlet Knights set a single season Big-Ten record for the most punts with 97, however they also had the lowest yards per punt in the Big-Ten averaging only 37.30 yards per punt.
Take a look at Anderson’s film right here:
Welcome to the banks, Ryan!
Keep it locked in to On the Banks all day for more National Signing Day coverage.