Directional punting

Directional punting in American football is a strategy aiming to reduce the space for a returner.

The player must truly estimate the punting objective and the purpose of such scheme. This strategy helps to pin the returner near the boundary so defensive group can work aggressively to seal off half of the field. The clear purpose will help the coverage to work harmoniously and regulate the play. Sometimes the players need to change direction several times thanking the communication signals.

The punting tactic differs dependently of the situation. If the returners appear in an open zone between 20 and 50-yards lines, the punter may expect a heavy or moderate rush while the returning team focuses on returning the punt. So the punter’s objective is to find a position to minimize the coverage area and optimize hang time and distance. It must be ready to find the target and focus motion in that direction.