Special Teams

Why Special Teams Matters

Special teams isn’t just the “third phase” of football—it’s often the difference between winning and losing. Coaches always say “hidden yardage wins games”—and that hidden yardage comes from special teams.

Think about it: every kickoff, punt, extra point, and field goal completely changes the field position or the score. If you win special teams, you set your offense and defense up for success. If you lose it, you dig yourself into a hole.

How Special Teams Impacts the Game

1. Field Position
   A good punt or kickoff can pin the other team deep, forcing them to drive 80–90 yards to score. Most high school offenses struggle to put together drives that long without making mistakes.

2. Momentum Shifts
   Big returns, blocked punts, or recovered onside kicks can flip a game instantly. A single play on special teams can completely swing momentum to your side.

3. Points on the Board

   • Field goals and extra points are obvious.

   • But think about this: a blocked punt or a kick return touchdown is often a 7-point swing that changes the entire game.

4. Confidence Boost
   Coaches trust players who can contribute on special teams. It’s the fastest way to get on the field, prove yourself, and help your team win.

The Player’s Perspective

Special teams is where you show effort, toughness, and discipline. Not everyone gets to carry the ball or throw passes, but everyone can make a difference on special teams. A hustle play on kickoff coverage, a smart block on a return, or a tackle in open space—those are game-winning plays.

You can win or lose a football game in special teams just as easily as on offense or defense. The players who take special teams seriously are the ones who help their team win championships.