Role of Special Teams in Football
Special teams play a crucial role in American football, often serving as the deciding factor in closely contested games. This section will explore the various components of special teams, their responsibilities, and their impact on game management.
What Are Special Teams?
Special teams are units on the football field that handle specific situations, primarily during kickoffs, field goals, and punts. These units are distinct from the offensive and defensive teams and have specialized roles designed to maximize scoring opportunities or minimize the opponent's chances.Components of Special Teams
1. Kickoff Team: This unit kicks the ball to the opposing team at the start of the game, after a touchdown, or a field goal. Their objective is to cover the field and tackle the returner to limit yardage. - Example: After scoring a touchdown, the team kicks off to the opponent, aiming to pin them deep in their territory.2. Kickoff Return Team: This team receives the kickoff and attempts to advance the ball as far as possible. They utilize blocking schemes to create lanes for the returner. - Example: A well-executed kickoff return may involve the returner running to one side of the field while blockers create a wall to protect him.
3. Field Goal Team: This unit comes onto the field when the offense is in position to attempt a field goal. It consists of the placekicker, holder, and offensive linemen. - Example: The offense drives to the opponent's 30-yard line, and the field goal team is brought in to attempt a 47-yard field goal.
4. Field Goal Block Team: This defensive unit tries to block the opponent's field goal attempt, preventing the ball from going through the uprights. - Example: On a critical fourth down, the field goal block team can change the momentum of the game by successfully blocking a kick.
5. Punt Team: This unit comes into play when the offense decides to kick the ball away on fourth down. They aim to kick the ball downfield to the opponent. - Example: Facing a difficult fourth down, the offensive team opts to punt, hoping to pin the opponent back deep in their territory.
6. Punt Return Team: This team tries to catch the punt and advance the ball downfield. They also need to protect the returner from being tackled. - Example: The punt return team sets up a return after successfully catching the ball, with blockers setting up lanes for the returner.