Stu Holt, Special Teams Coordinator, Virginia Tech, shows three of the competitive drills that he uses for his kickoff team. The first two drills shown in the practice film are individual drills. The final one is a 3 on 3 competitive drill.
Coach Holtz's entire video on 5x5 Multiple Kickoff Coverage & Drills is only available on Glazier Drive.
Access some of our key takeaways below the video.
The video demonstrates a series of kickoff coverage drills and techniques focused on winning one-on-one matchups and proper technique:
1. Individual Box Drill
- Players compete in a confined space ("the box")
- Kickoff coverage player tries to get through the "shoot" area
- Kickoff return player tries to block and prevent passage
- Technique focus: Using the "blade" technique (turning shoulders to reduce blocking surface)
- Coaching points: Stick, blade, stack, then pierce
2. In-Phase Drill Progression
- Similar setup but with "ball in phase" (within 15 yards)
- Coverage players practice "get on, get off" techniques
- Goal is to tag the returner before they get through the box
- Return players try to occupy blockers long enough for returner to escape
- Coaching points: Long stride into contact, violent shedding, knocking blockers into returner's path
3. Three-on-Three Competition
- Full competitive situation with multiple players
- All players in phase with full piercing technique
- Evaluates team coordination and individual technique application
Benefits Highlighted:
- Gets best players involved in special teams
- Creates enthusiasm among coaches and players
- Allows starters to model techniques for younger players
- Provides teaching moments through competition
- Helps identify which players finish plays properly