I do see some value to the punt formation if it could be made to work. Isn't Brandon's strategy to create a few options on a fake punt? It worked with the direct hike to Winovich during the Wisconsin game. I could see a few other options used with a lightly guarded receiver posted wide and a former QB like Pete taking the hike. It all depends on what the return unit gives up along the line.
The key is to make it work shouldn't be that hard. What I saw in the Wisc and Buf games was a blocker coming directly off our right end straight for the punter. For some reason, he passes the right shoulder of our right side blocker (of the 3) who was clearly looking to his left. If he looks right first, then helps if needed on the left, problem #1 solved.
Why it was so hard to see the punt blocker is hard to understand. I watched our second line blocker's helmet the whole time and he's looking left only. Maybe they also need to spread out a little after the ball is hiked. Or, I would put two backup linebackers in with Pete, instead of down linemen.
With better protection, and hopefully more experience, the punter has time to get the ball higher in the air. Solving part of special team problem #2.
