Attack and Score

Seattle\'s Kickoff Return Scheme
Special Teams Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks
© More from this issue

          
Our basic K.O. return is predicated on attacking an opponent's left or right flank. We will make minor adjustments or possibly tweak the blocking scheme slightly but we are going to run our left + right return and force the opponent to over-compensate the coverage in some manner to stop our return. When we find the opponent is over-compensating to stop our return, we will run our counter or middle return to take advantage of the coverage adjustments. Otherwise, we will continue to run our base returns.

Right Return - Double R4 (Diagram 1) We number coverage team from outside-in L1-L5 and vice-versa on the right R1-R5. Coaching Points: Blocking angles and depth will be determined by kick direction, hang- time, and distance. Normally, our double- team takes place somewhere between the 30-35 yard line and other blocks by front line are 5 yards deeper. Trap block by front side WB takes place between 20-25 yard line and wedge, (A-B) sets up 8-10 yards from the primary return man. Our off HB (non-returner) splits difference between wedge and returner and becomes the lead blocker. His primary responsibility is to make sure the ball is secured and to help returner make decisions on kicks into end zone or possible out of bounds kicks. Then he becomes the lead blocker and is assigned to block #1. Backside WB is assigned to block backside #2 or the most dangerous man (MDM) from backside and if no threat shows - lead through the hole looking to the inside.

Returner is to secure the ball and get to the inside hip of wedge blocker ("A" on right return ) and go north-south as fast as possible. He is to accelerate through the hole and take the ball outside to get away from backside pursuit. He should not cut back unless the hole is completely clogged, and then he must protect the ball from backside strips by coverage team. He must be prepared to bounce out if wedge blockers log fast closing defenders. The hole can be inside wedge, between wedge blockers, or bounce outside depending on play of coverage defenders. Our backside blockers must cut off backside defenders by getting position and using good technique. Blockers must not let their man flatten and cross their face or to run straight line around them. Then must be tenacious and stay with blocks, but no penalties. Diagram #2 shows the same return to our Left.

Year-in and year-out we have been one of the top K.O. return teams in the NFL. Both in our average return and in average field position starting point. The return is predicated on these simple points:

1. No Mental Errors (Everybody knows their blocking assignment).

2. Man blocking.

3. No Penalties. Technique, Discipline, and great Effort.

4. Ball Security (Make good decisions, no muffs or fumbles).

5. Attack the flank and secure the point of attack with a double team and trap block. Then lead the wedge at outside defenders.

6. Go north + south with return. Timing is of the essence. Don't give defenders time to get off blocks or run around blocks.


Diagram1

Diagram2

NEW BOOK!

Digital Download - 304 Pages of Football Forms for the Winning Coach