Offensive and defensive units are more than capable of making a lightning-quick splash. The Pittsburgh Steelers should know that. They gave up a 99-yard touchdown against the Buffalo Bills earlier this year on defense. Safety Minkah Fitzpatrick’s 31-yard pick six in the opener was pivotal in beating the Cincinnati Bengals in week one.
But in terms of percentage impact, neither offense nor defense can compare to special teams. You only get so many plays per game, but the odds of a big return or some other dynamic event are greater on a play-to-play basis and can have a direct impact on wins and losses.