The Importance of Special Teams

(New England Patriots special teams ace Matthew Slater)

There are three phases in the game of football: offense, defense, and special teams. We have all heard that “offense sells tickets, but defense wins championships” however, what about special teams? Special teams is often the forgotten phase of football however its importance should never be overlooked. Below are three reasons that highlight the importance of special teams.

• Control field position

Special teams is looked at as a tug-a-war of field position. The goal of kickoff and punt is to pin your opponent deep in their own territory and make them try to travel the length of the field to score a touchdown. Adversely, the goal of kick-return and punt-return is to put your offense on a short field. The special teams unit that wins the battle for field position (similar to time of possession) often wins the game. 

• Provides Momentum shift

Momentum in the game of football is an amazing thing. When in possession of momentum a team feels like they can do no wrong, but once momentum is shifted it is hard to stop. Momentum shifts are caused by big plays, touchdowns, turnovers, big hits, trick plays, etc. No phase of football creates more momentum shifts than special teams. A blocked kick, punt return for a touchdown, big hit on kick-off, etc all can shift the momentum of the game. All it takes is one play. 
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• Puts best players in position to make plays 

Another fact about special teams that is often overlooked is that the best players on the team are often involved in special teams. Your most dynamic player is the returner, your best pass rusher should be on field goal block, starting offensive lineman should be on field goal, fastest and most physical players are on kick-off, and the list goes on. I challenge you to look at Alabama, Ohio State, or any other successful college football team and see how many starters are on the field for special teams. Even in the NFL, if you are not the million dollar 1st round draft pick (sometimes even they play special teams) then you better be prepared to play special teams because that is where the best players get a chance to do what they do best, make plays. Lawrence Taylor, Deion Sanders, Julian Edleman, Ed reed, and many more great players all have made a name for themselves playing special teams.


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