Adapting Run Game Schemes to the NFL's New Kickoff

The NFL's new kickoff rule has introduced an element of unpredictability, offering a unique opportunity for innovation in special teams play. This article dives into the possibility of integrating traditional run game schemes into the new kickoff framework, and examining their potential effectiveness. While the preseason is likely to feature straightforward man-to-man return concepts, we anticipate the regular season will bring a variety of blocking schemes and strategic adjustments. Join us as we analyze how these adaptations might shape the success of kickoff returns under the new rules.

Power

The first question always becomes, can we run power? The thought process behind this is to down block all of the kickoff team leaving the last two players unblocked (L1 & L2). Since we are down blocking this leaves room for one player on the return team to “pull” and take L2 while the returner who doesn’t receive the kickoff is responsible for kicking L5. The biggest problem with this scheme is the puller's ability to get out to L4 quickly assuming L4 is in a full sprint down the field. 

Counter

We can apply the same rules for counter as power. We are looking to down block as many on the kickoff team as possible while pulling two members of the return team. This would now cause the non-returner to be responsible for R1. The returners could take a path straight of the middle then bend to the outside much like a running back would do on counter. The same issues that applied to the power scheme still apply, but are now doubled. Can we pull two players and get to the R5 and R4?

Crunch

Crunch might have the most validity to it as a scheme that can be used for NFL kick returns. To break the scheme down to the most basic terms, it becomes a cross block between every pair on the return team. This allows for players to quickly reach their blocks, and creates the possibility for larger gaps to open for the returner.

Throwback

Our last return scheme doesn’t feature a run scheme, but a throwback. I don’t think we can write a return article and not include an exotic throwback scheme. (Easy Titans fans) For transparency, this would likely never work, but it’s fun to scheme up.

Conclusion

The NFL's new kickoff rule has opened the door to innovative strategies on special teams, challenging coaches to think creatively and adapt traditional run game schemes to the unique demands of kickoff returns. By examining power, counter, crunch, and even the exotic throwback scheme, we've explored the potential and limitations of each approach within this new framework. While preseason games may show straightforward man-to-man concepts, the regular season promises a diversity of blocking schemes that could significantly impact the success of returns. As teams experiment and refine these strategies, we look forward to seeing how they evolve and influence the game. The new kickoff rule may be unconventional, but it offers a thrilling opportunity for strategic ingenuity in football.

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