How to Gain an Advantage on a Kickoff - Trent Figg

You need to set the tone for the game with the first play--the kickoff.  Head Coach Trent Figg of Calvin College (MI) explains his system.  Coach Figg's belief is that simplicity = speed.  You make things simple for your coverage team with the way you organize your teaching.

You get one shot on special teams, not three or four downs so you must make it count!  You can see part of his presentation below.  You can see the entire dicussion on Glazier Drive at Gaining An Advantage on KO Coverage: Install, Drill, Practice & Game Footage

Coverage Unit Responsibilities

• How fast can we get our players to go?
• Create takeaways. Own the ball!
• No penalites!
• Press the line, but always be onside at the kick.
• Attack with speed and finish through the end zone.
• Tackle the opponent inside the 20 yardline when they dare to return a kick.
• Get inside the 30 yeard line 

Kicker Responsibilities

• The kick should be placed between the hash and the sideline.
• Hang time should be 4.0 or better.
  
• Allow the coverage unit the opportunity to reach the 30 yard line before the ball is caught by the returner