Sam Koch's journey in professional football is a testament to his skill and consistency as a punter. Born on August 13, 1982, in York, Nebraska, Koch attended the University of Nebraska, where he played college football for the Nebraska Cornhuskers. His performance in college caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection in the sixth round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens.
Koch quickly established himself as a reliable punter for the Ravens. Throughout his career, he became known for his ability to execute a variety of punts, which helped control field position and contributed to the Ravens' defensive strategies. His innovative punting style included techniques such as the "Koch Hook," a sidewinding punt that made it difficult for returners to field the ball cleanly.
During his tenure with the Ravens, Koch played in every game, demonstrating remarkable durability and consistency. He was a part of the Ravens' Super Bowl XLVII-winning team in the 2012 season, where his performance in the playoffs and the Super Bowl itself was instrumental in the team's success. In the Super Bowl, Koch executed a strategic safety punt in the closing moments of the game, which helped secure the Ravens' victory over the San Francisco 49ers.
Koch's career was marked by several personal achievements. He was selected to the Pro Bowl in 2015, a recognition of his excellence on the field. Additionally, he was named to the Second-team All-Pro in the same year. Over the years, Koch set numerous franchise records for the Ravens, including most career punts and highest career punting average.
Off the field, Koch was known for his leadership and mentorship within the Ravens organization. He played a vital role in guiding younger players and was respected by teammates and coaches alike for his professionalism and work ethic.
Koch's career spanned 16 seasons, all with the Baltimore Ravens, making him one of the longest-tenured players in the franchise's history. His retirement in 2022 marked the end of an era for the Ravens, as he left behind a legacy of excellence and innovation in the art of punting.
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