Carnegie Mellon dominated punt blocking in 2023, and they are continuing that trend in 2024. The Tartans led the nation in 2023 with 10 blocked kicks, including eight blocked punts. In 2024, they currently hold the top spot again, with three blocked punts and six blocked kicks so far.
For special teams coordinator Jeff Simmons it starts with a detailed and strategic approach built around film preparation and scouting. He believes that the success of blocking punts relies on thorough analysis and observation of the opponent’s special teams operation. Here’s a breakdown of how Simmons prepares his team to consistently disrupt punts and create game-changing plays.
Operation Time
Simmons starts with what he considers the most improtant factor, the punting team’s operation time(snap to when the ball leaves the punter’s foot). Simmons uses video analysis to measure this precisely. He pauses the video right before the snap and again when the ball is kicked, recording the time difference to get the exact operation time. If it’s 2.1 seconds or slower, Simmons views it as a prime opportunity for a block.
Launch Point
Simmons evaluates the punter’s launch point as the next key factor. While some teams set up 12 or 14 yards behind the line of scrimmage, he focuses on the exact yard line where the punter strikes the ball. In most cases, the launch point falls between 9 and 11 yards behind the center. This information helps his team determine where they need to position themselves to block the punt effectively.
Scouting the Long Snapper
Simmons also places significant importance on the long snapper. In Division III football, the long snapper is often not a specialized position and may double as a player in another position, making it a potential vulnerability.
By studying film, Simmons looks for “tells” in the snapper’s behavior. For instance, he recalls an instance where a snapper would look straight ahead, but just before snapping, he would duck his head between his legs. Recognizing these tendencies allows his players to anticipate the snap and react faster.
Understanding the Blocking Scheme
Simmons analyzes the opponent’s blocking schemes next. He and his players study film to understand how the opposing team sets up protection. Simmons focuses on exploiting weaknesses in these schemes, like misalignments or poor gap coverage, allowing his players to shoot through gaps and disrupt the punt.
Targeting Weak Links
Finally, Simmons looks for any weak links in the opponent’s protection. If there’s a player who’s recently been added to the punt team or someone struggling with blocking responsibilities, Simmons design the block to attack that player’s area. He knows that exploiting a new or inexperienced player can often lead to a successful punt block.
Thump-Thump
Jeff Simmons’ method of preparing his team to block punts is a meticulous process that starts with film study and analysis. By focusing on operation time, launch point, long snapper tendencies, blocking schemes, and weak links, his teams are always well-prepared to make game-changing plays on special teams. Following this simple process can help your punt block team hear the disctinct thump-thump on game day, and experience the change in momentum that comes with it.
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