Derek Leonard, HC, Rochester HS (IL)
This video is a part of the Derek Leonard Spread Offense System on Glazier Drive: Spread Punt
This article was originally posted on the Glazier Coaching Blog.
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THE EMPTY PUNT STRATEGY OVERVIEW
This coaching strategy involves lining up in an empty backfield formation (5 wide receivers) on punt plays, which has proven highly effective over 20 years of implementation. The approach confuses defenses and dramatically reduces punt blocks and returns.
KEY STATISTICAL RESULTS
Over 20 years of using this strategy, the team has experienced only 4 blocked punts total, with just 2 returned for touchdowns. This represents exceptional protection compared to traditional punt formations. The coach notes their kickoff team doesn’t achieve anywhere near these success rates.
HOW DEFENSES REACT
When facing the empty punt formation, defenses typically respond in one of two ways about 75-80% of the time:
- No returner positioned back (happens approximately 50% of the time)
- No pass rush sent, relying only on 3-4 defensive linemen already on the field
This defensive confusion stems from not knowing whether the play will be a punt or a pass.
FORMATION DETAILS
The team uses multiple receiver alignments including 3×2 and 4×1 formations, positioning receivers based on field position and hash marks. All five receivers run vertical routes initially, creating the illusion of a passing play. The #3 receiver lines up on the ball, slot receivers align on hash marks, and outside receivers run sideline routes.
QUARTERBACK POSITIONING AND PROTECTION
The quarterback positions 8 to 8.5 yards back (sometimes up to 9 yards), which prevents the center from being hit immediately after the snap. This depth allows for either one-step or two-step punts depending on the punter’s ability and situation.
OFFENSIVE LINE RESPONSIBILITIES
Linemen treat the play like aggressive pass protection rather than traditional punt protection. Tackles use landmarks two yards outside the hash marks, while guards focus on the goal posts as reference points. This creates better spacing and protection angles.
BUILT-IN FAKE POTENTIAL
The formation naturally sets up play-action opportunities, as defenses can’t distinguish between punt and pass until after the snap. When faking, the team can run any play from their empty formation playbook, not just five verticals.
FLEXIBILITY AND ADJUSTMENTS
The coach notes they rarely use traditional tight punt formation (less than 5 times in 20 years, some years not at all). When facing heavy pressure or strong pass rushers, they can bring in running backs or slot receivers as additional blockers while maintaining the empty look initially.
COVERAGE RESPONSIBILITIES
After the punt, receivers become coverage players. Inside receivers focus on the ball, slot receivers key on the returner’s hips, and outside receivers provide second-level containment while maintaining outside shoulder leverage on the returner.