Two similar punts, same kid — very different results.

This is Oliver, a 15 year old sophomore who is his high school's starting kicker... and has been kicking for the JV, too, because they don't have anyone. Great for him, he gets twice the reps! However, he wasn't fired up to punt, even though he certainly can punt. With some encouragement from his parents (and a certain coach), Oliver was put in to punt in the JV game last night.

Ball deep in his own territory, he needs to get his team out of a jam. First punt spirals out 35 yards to midfield (excellent), but with a shallow 2.7 hangtime and punting it right down the middle (not making the returner move to catch it) means he got the ball quickly and, with some poor coverage and tackling, the punt return man takes it to the house! 😳. Oliver tries to make a "bump" tackle and misses. Shoot! Don't let that guy score... KICKERS & PUNTERS, the sideline has never missed a tackle. You don't have to tackle the guy — just funnel him to the sideline and SHOVE him out of bounds (with your hands and some force). If you don't miss, he won't stay in bounds.

On the second punt, from almost the same location, Oliver hits a 30 yard punt, BUT with a 3.4 hangtime. Not so much time for the returner to plot his course. The coverage still misses the first tackle, but is there to swarm him. A net of 30 yards for the team!

THE ONLY STAT that really counts is NET PUNTING AVERAGE.

Punt 1: Net of -15 yards and 6 pts for the opponent.

Punt 2: Net of 30 yards.

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HS Coaches: Net 30+ yards.

College Coaches: Net 35+ yards.

Pro Coaches: Net 40+ yards.

It's pretty much that simple. 🏈

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Thank you

@Kathleen Shane

for sharing!