Blocking during kick
“Blocking during a kick” in American football mainly refers to the activities made by players to prevent the opposition team from interfering with a kick play, such as a punt or a field goal attempt. Blocking during a kick is vital because these plays require a lot of time and space for the kicking team to accomplish, and any interruption by the opposing team can impact the outcome of the play.
Here’s how blocking works during a kick:
- Punt blocking occurs when the kicking team attempts to establish a protective barrier around the punter while punting the ball to the opposing team. The punt protection or blocking formation is intended to keep opponents from approaching the punter and perhaps blocking or modifying the punt. To guarantee a clean path for the punter to kick the ball, members on the punting team must hold their blocks.
- Field goal Blocking: The purpose of the kicking team during a field goal attempt is to establish a sturdy line of protection for the kicker. The blockers must keep opponents from raising their hands to impede the kick. Furthermore, some teams may try to rush the line’s edges to prevent the kick. The blocking players must retain their positions and efficiently push back the defenders to ensure a clean passage for the ball to be kicked between the goal posts.
- Kickoff Blocking: During a kickoff, the kicking team wishes to hinder or obstruct the returners from the receiving team. To prevent returners from obtaining too much yardage on the return, players on the kicking team must control pathways and walls. Good kickoff blocking can assist the kicking team restrict the receiving team’s field position advantage.
Blocking during kicks necessitates excellent coordination, skill, and collaboration. Players must communicate efficiently to ensure everyone knows their roles and obligations. A blocking breakdown can result in blocked kicks, tackles for loss, or even turnovers, all of which can substantially influence the game’s outcome.