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Josh Fletcher, Spec Teams Coord/RB Coach, Villanova

Full video on Glazier Drive:  Punt Return Scheme & Drills

OVERVIEW

Our post covers the Freeze technique used in punt return blocking — specifically the drill work designed to teach players how to engage and hold up gunners on a punt team while setting up a potential block or return.

CORE PHILOSOPHY

The coach emphasizes that the goal is to be on the opponent's side of the line of scrimmage, being physical and aggressive. Players should show a rush demeanor to force the punt team to protect rather than release their coverage units immediately. The fear for any special teams coordinator is that their front line skips protection and goes straight to coverage.

STANCE AND BODY POSITION

Everything starts with a proper stance. Players must stay square and balanced — neither leaning too far forward nor backward. If a player's nose is nearly over the opponent's toes, they're leaning too much and will lose the battle. A wide base is critical because it allows for redirecting and working angles effectively.

HAND PLACEMENT AND AGGRESSION

The coach openly encourages aggressive hand placement and even holding — grabbing opponents by the shoulder pads and locking in. The philosophy is to let the referee make that call rather than being passive. Hands should be wide and actively fighting pressure in both directions to control the blocker.

FOOTWORK

The inside foot should be up toward the ball side, with the outside foot back. Players should step directly toward their man rather than taking false steps or barreling straight in. Poor footwork — particularly false steps — was a notable coaching correction throughout the drill review.

DRILL BREAKDOWN

The "Freeze Drill" has one player simulating the punt team and another simulating the punt returner's blocking unit. The coach reviews film clips, praising wide and active hands, good base width, and positive shin angles, while correcting players who are too high, leaning, or taking poor initial steps.

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