Ben Kotwica, Asst Spec Teams Coach, Los Angeles Rams
Full video available on Glazier Drive: Hitting the Home Run in the KOR/Punt Return Game
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PUNT RETURN BLOCKING PHILOSOPHY AND FUNDAMENTALS
This coaching breakdown focuses on advanced punt return strategies emphasizing proper blocking techniques and field positioning. The core philosophy centers on “blocking to the whistle” with the mentality of taking every return “to the house” for a touchdown.
PENALTY AVOIDANCE AND FUNDAMENTALS
Coaches stress never blocking the nameplate to avoid penalties, particularly blocks in the back. Key fundamentals include proper ball security with hands behind the ball, head behind hands, and maintaining good “BGO” (ball get off). Players must block front plate numbers and make smart decisions throughout the return.
FORMATION STRUCTURES
The system uses position numbers with two main formations. “Double Vice” features six players in the box with corners (jammers), safeties, ends, tackles, and backers. “Giant” formation brings one safety into the box for a seven-man structure, creating different blocking angles and responsibilities.
BLOCKING TECHNIQUES
Interior blocking utilizes a “choke and pin” technique with pad-under-pad leverage, capturing the outside pad with the outside hand while placing the inside hand on the sternum. Players transition from high hand placement to low to avoid holding penalties. The system emphasizes “tips to hips” hand positioning.
PERIMETER BLOCKING
Single technique involves one-on-one matchups using a “hokey technique” from Minnesota Vikings concepts. Players use mirror steps and kick-to-cut-off movements with short six-inch steps to deny vertical entry. The goal is preventing gunners from getting downfield rather than pancake blocks.
GAME FILM EXAMPLES
Multiple examples against NFL teams (Chargers, Raiders) demonstrate proper execution. Returns show effective wall-building, lead blocking, and the importance of patience by returners. The system requires at least 10 yards of maneuvering space for the returner to operate effectively.
SPECIAL SITUATIONS
The “wild card” player can either drop back to start the return or man-up the personal protector (PP) depending on opponent strengths. Players must adapt to short-side punting tendencies and adjust leverage accordingly. Modern rules prohibit blindside blocks, requiring “rip by” techniques instead.