Four Simple Drills for Better Special Teams Play

After the coach has thrown the ball to a return man, the return team has to find the ball then sprint to the correct spot on the field where it will have to block for the return.

Special teams is one of the most commonly ignored, yet vitally important development areas for a youth or high school football team.

Coach Jimmy Johnson once said that teams need to win two of three phases of the game in order to come out with a “W” – offense, defense or special teams. In other words, special teams is just as important as offense and defense, and should be treated that way in your game preparation.

Below is a 4-step drill progression which will help introduce your players to the fundamentals of kicking and punting, and give you a better chance to win the special teams battle.