Kickoff Coverage Block Recognition Drills: Mastering the Art of Deciphering the Blocking Scheme
These “Kickoff Coverage Block Recognition Drills” teach your players to decipher the blocker’s intentions, anticipate the return’s point of attack, and (re)act accordingly. It’s where athleticism meets game intelligence, transforming your kickoff coverage unit from a dull, run-down-the-field team to an intelligently reacting and dominating one.
Purpose
The cornerstone of effective kickoff coverage is anticipating the opponent’s blocking schemes. This drill is designed to enhance a player’s ability to quickly identify the primary blocker and predict the direction of the ensuing block, allowing for a timely and decisive reaction.
Description
Progression 1: One-on-One Recognition
- Players are paired up with one acting as a blocker and the other being the coverage player.
- They are positioned about 15-18 yards apart.
- The coverage players begin their run-up on command.
- The blockers, initially positioned exactly in the lane of the coverage players,
- begin to drop back when the coverage players are at the kickoff line (5 yards from their starting position) and
- position themselves either slightly to the left or right of the direct path of the coverage player,
- indicating their potential blocking direction by also turning their bodies slightly in the intended blocking direction.
- The coverage player’s task is
- to determine the blocker’s intent and
- communicate his read through verbal cues to his teammates and
- body language by pointing in the direction he expects the return to go (which is opposite the identified blocking direction) to the coaches, solely for coaching purposes.
Progression 2: Increased Complexity
Building on the previous step, the blocker’s actions become less predictable. They may initially fake a block in one direction before shifting their focus. This forces coverage players to exercise patience and avoid premature judgments.
Progression 3: Real-Game Simulation
- Players are positioned in an actual kickoff return formation, replicating the challenges of a live game environment.
- Blockers execute different blocking schemes based on common return strategies, i.e. expected/scouted opponent blocking schemes or their own team’s blocking schemes.
- Coverage players must accurately identify their primary blocker and anticipate the direction of the block to effectively counter their opponent’s blocking intentions.
Hints
- Each progression should begin at a controlled speed to allow players to focus on recognition. Gradually increase the tempo as players demonstrate proficiency.
- While Progressions 1 and 2 can be done on a one-to-one basis, Progression Step 3 should be done at least in the “half line mode”.
Coaching Points
- Focus on Recognition: Emphasize the importance of quickly identifying the primary blocker and the intended blocking direction.
- Communication: Encourage vocal communication of the identified return direction.
- Patience: Advise players to avoid hasty decisions and to trust their instincts.
- Visual Cues: Teach players to read the blocker’s body language and footwork to anticipate their actions.
- Film Review: Utilize video analysis to reinforce correct identification and decision-making.
Equipment
- Cones or markers for positioning
- Video recording equipment
By mastering the fundamentals of block recognition through this drill, players will be better equipped to make split-second decisions on kickoff coverage, leading to improved tackling opportunities and overall team success.
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