Derek Day, Special Teams Coordinator, Eastern Kentucky
This video is a part of the Derek Day Kickoff Return System on Glazier Drive: Returners Drill Work: Goals/Personnel, Alignment, & Technique on Kick
This article was originally posted on the Glazier Coaching Blog.
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KICKOFF RETURNER FUNDAMENTALS AND TECHNIQUES
This coaching video focuses on the essential elements of effective kickoff return strategy, emphasizing player selection, technique, and execution principles that can transform field position battles.
IDEAL RETURNER PROFILE
The perfect kickoff returner combines three critical attributes: speed, fearlessness, and track discipline. Unlike punt returns where elusiveness matters, kickoff return success depends on a player who can “put the pedal down and don’t lift until you get to the goal line.” This returner can be a running back, receiver, or defensive back, but must possess exceptional vision and unwavering confidence to execute under pressure.
THE TRACK CONCEPT
Kickoff return operates like a counter running play with a predetermined path. The returner must hit inside the kickout blocks and outside the double team, then roll outside the double team late in the return. This requires absolute trust in teammates and disciplined execution rather than improvisation.
STEAL FIVE YARDS PHILOSOPHY
The coaching staff emphasizes aggressive forward momentum when fielding kicks. Returners should always catch the ball while moving forward, similar to handing off to a running back already at full speed. This forward motion reduces the time blockers need to sustain their assignments from 5-6 seconds to just 3-4 seconds, significantly improving return efficiency.
TECHNICAL EXECUTION POINTS
Proper returner technique involves starting deep, charging aggressively while staying square to the ball, attacking it in the air, and immediately getting vertical. The worst-case scenario is catching the ball while stationary, but backing up or catching over the shoulder creates almost impossible blocking situations.
GAME SITUATION EXAMPLES
The video demonstrates three scenarios: ideal execution with full-speed catches creating explosive plays, adequate execution with stationary catches still producing positive returns, and challenging situations where even backing up can succeed with exceptional athletes. Each example reinforces how proper technique maximizes blocking effectiveness.
COACHING PARAMETERS AND SAFETY NETS
For returners lacking elite confidence or ability, coaches should establish clear guidelines: fair catch balls outside the numbers, take a knee on end zone kicks, or other situational rules. These parameters protect field position while the returner develops skills and confidence.
The overarching message emphasizes daily repetition of track running until it becomes instinctive, allowing returners to execute “with their eyes closed” while trusting their teammates to create the necessary running lanes.