Is Ravens Kicking Competition Over?

Before last night's preseason game, the placekicking competition on the Baltimore Ravens appeared to be in a dead heat between veteran Billy Cundiff and rookie Justin Tucker. Although those of us in attendance at the team's training camp had the edge going to Tucker based on what seemed to be a stronger and more accurate leg, there was not a huge difference in their results as both had been pretty consistent in their kicks.

However, Tucker got the nod last night and continued to do everything, if not more, than he has been asked to. Two more field goals, including one from 53 yards, as well as six extra points, argued the case for his supplanting Cundiff on the roster. Add in his booming kickoffs out of the back of the end zone, and that ability could negate the problem that Special Teams has had defending returns.

Although Cundiff could very well be given all the reps in the team's final preseason game, it may not be enough to save his job and justify the high salary he will get based on his current contract. The Ravens and every NFL team must reduce their roster size down to 75 players, meaning 15 will need to be cut on Monday. While there is no reason to expect them to cut a kicker at that point, the end of Billy Cundiff's career on the Baltimore Ravens may be getting a lot closer as a result of Justin Tucker's performance this summer.