The role of the special team in American football - more than just a minor matter


Special Teams are often the underrated part of a football game, even though they play a crucial role in a team’s success. These specialized units are responsible for all aspects of the game involving kicks – including kickoffs, punts, field goals, and extra points. They come into action during key moments of a game and have the power to influence its course, sometimes even completely turning the tide. This article explores the importance of Special Teams, how they can decide games, and the strategies and players that are central to their success.

What Are Special Teams?
In football, there are three main phases of the game: offense, defense, and Special Teams. The latter is the unit that takes the field during kicking plays,” or any plays involving a kick.

These include:

  • Kickoff and Kickoff Return: This occurs at the start of each half and after every touchdown or field goal. The opposing Special Teams attempt to catch the kickoff and return it as far as possible (kickoff return).
  • Punt and Punt Return: A team punts the ball when it cannot convert on fourth down. The opposing team tries to return the punt as far as possible.
  • Field Goals and Extra Points: When a team is near the end zone but does not score a touchdown, it can attempt a field goal for three points. After a touchdown, it can also kick for an extra point.
  • Onside Kicks: A risky but often game-changing technique where the kicking team tries to regain possession by kicking the ball a short distance, aiming to surprise the opponent and retain control.


Though these plays last only a few seconds, they can have a profound impact on the game. A successful kickoff return for a touchdown or a clutch field goal in the final seconds can be the difference between winning and losing.

How Special Teams Can Decide Games
There are countless examples in NFL history where Special Teams were the deciding factor in a game. One of the most famous moments was the New Orleans Saints’ onside kick in Super Bowl XLIV. At the start of the second half, the Saints surprised the Indianapolis Colts by executing an onside kick, which they recovered. This bold decision allowed the Saints to shift momentum and ultimately win their first Super Bowl.

Another iconic example is the career of Adam Vinatieri, one of the most successful kickers in NFL history. Vinatieri made numerous game-winning field goals, including the legendary kick in Super Bowl XXXVI that gave the New England Patriots their first Super Bowl victory. His ability to deliver under pressure made him one of the most valuable players on the field – even though he was "just" a kicker.

In a typical NFL game, Special Teams can often be seen as the invisible heroes.” A good Special Teams unit can pin opponents in poor field position with excellent punt placement or set up the offense with great field position through long kickoff returns. Conversely, poor Special Teams play can doom a team, as missed field goals, botched punts, or poor kickoff coverage can give the opponent a significant advantage.

The Strategy Behind Special Teams

Special Teams coaches are considered masters of the game’s finer details. They not only work on improving the technique and conditioning of kickers, punters, and returners but also develop strategies that can change the game’s outcome. This involves diving deep into statistics and exploiting the opponent’s weaknesses.

One common tactic is placing punts near the sidelines to limit the opposing returner’s ability to gain yardage. These coffin-corner punts, where the ball lands close to the opponent’s end zone, are especially effective, as they give the opposing team poor starting field position.

Similarly, many teams focus on strong kickoff coverage to stop the opposing returner early. This requires fast and strong players who can not only tackle the returner but also prevent him from gaining significant yardage.

On the offensive side of Special Teams, having a great punt or kickoff returner is equally important. Players like Devin Hester, considered one of the best returners in NFL history, decided multiple games with their ability to turn punts or kickoffs into spectacular touchdowns. Returners need to be fast, agile, and have great vision to pick the best routes and evade tacklers.

Player Careers Shaped by Special Teams

While offensive and defensive players often get the most attention, there are many players whose careers were defined by their Special Teams performances. One example is Matthew Slater of the New England Patriots. Slater is an exceptional gunner – a player responsible for sprinting down the field during punt and kickoff coverage to stop the returner early. His Special Teams skills have earned him multiple Pro Bowl nominations, even though he rarely plays on offense.

Devin Hester, known for his incredible punt and kickoff returns, also shaped the outcome of many games with his Special Teams abilities. Hester holds the record for the most return touchdowns in NFL history and was inducted into the Hall of Fame – an extraordinary achievement for a player who primarily excelled on Special Teams.

Another famous name is Steve Tasker, widely regarded as one of the best Special Teams players ever. Tasker played for the Buffalo Bills and was instrumental in their four consecutive Super Bowl appearances in the 1990s. Though he seldom played on offense, he is remembered for his standout Special Teams contributions.

How Special Teams Evolve and Improve

The NFL places great emphasis on analyzing and continuously improving Special Teams’ performance. A key aspect of this is using statistics and data analysis to identify the most effective formations and player setups. Teams are increasingly relying on video analysis to pinpoint their mistakes and better prepare their players for opponents.

In recent years, football technology has advanced, and tracking players during games has allowed coaches to see which players are the fastest to reach the ball carrier or who makes the best tackles. These insights help Special Teams coaches refine their tactics and optimize their units.

Special Teams in College and Youth Development

Special Teams also play a critical role in college football. For many young players, Special Teams offer the best opportunity to showcase their skills and earn a spot on the team. Players who do not start on offense or defense can make a name for themselves through outstanding performances on Special Teams and eventually earn a regular position.

College coaches invest a lot of time in developing their Special Teams players. There is a strong focus on kickers, punters, and returners who can eventually transition to the NFL. Many of the NFL’s top kickers and punters, such as Justin Tucker of the Baltimore Ravens, built their careers through exceptional Special Teams performances in college and went on to become superstars.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Sideshow
Special Teams are far more than just a sideshow in American football. They are a crucial part of the game and have the power to significantly influence its outcome. Through bold decisions, spectacular returns, and excellent tactics, Special Teams can make the difference between winning and losing. Teams that train and optimize their Special Teams often have a decisive advantage on the field.

For fans who want to dive deeper into football strategy, Special Teams offer an exciting and often surprising perspective on the game.