How to Return a Football Kick-off or Punt

Kick-off and punt returns are an important part of playing a football game. These determine the starting point on the field for an offense. A good kick-off or punt return can give a team great field position, allowing them to cover less yardage to get to the end zone for a touchdown or set up a field goal. Here's the best way to return a punt or kick-off.

Instructions

1. Stand at a point on the field that will allow you to catch the kick-off or punt. Start to run as soon as you catch the ball.

2. Stay in the middle of the field if possible. This is where your line of blockers will be and give you the best chance for a hole to be created as the blockers and defenders meet.

3. Hit any hole created as a blocker and defender meet as soon as it opens. These holes close rapidly and you will need to pass through one as soon as it opens to ensure the best chance for a good kick-off or punt return.

4. Change direction if need be. If a line of defenders has gotten past your blockers, move to the right or left and then immediately cut up field. You always want to be running up the field and not side to side.

5. Angle toward the sideline if it seems that the defenders have gotten past your blockers and jammed the middle of the field. Avoid stepping out of bounds unless you are forced out by a defender.

Tips & Warnings

• Know each blocker's assignment and where they are supposed to be while the kick-off or punt return unfolds. This will help you decide best which direction will give you the most opportunity to gain yards on the return.