What Is A Special Teams Unit In The NFL?

A special teams unit is an important part of any NFL team. They are responsible for providing good field position and scoring points.

Introduction

In American football, the special teams is the group of players on the team that are responsible for specific tasks during punts, kickoffs, and field goal attempts.

The special teams unit within a football team typically consists of three major sub-units: the kickoff return team, the punt return team, and the field goal/extra point units. Each sub-unit has its own specific task or tasks to carry out during game play.

The kickoff return team is responsible for running the ball back after a kickoff. The punt return team is responsible for returning a punt (a kick from the opposing team), and the field goal/extra point unit is responsible for either kicking a field goal or attempting an extra point after a touchdown is scored.

Special teams play is often seen as unimportant by casual fans, but it can be very important to the outcome of a game. In fact, many games have been won or lost based on special teams play.

What is a Special Teams Unit?

A special teams unit is a group of players on a team who are responsible for specific tasks during football games. These players typically play on kicking, punt, and kickoff teams.

There are three phases of the game in which special teams units are used: return, blocking, and coverage. The return team is responsible for catching and running back punts and kickoffs. The blocking team protects the returner from opposing players. The coverage team tries to keep the returner from getting open space to run.

The Roles of a Special Teams Unit

A special teams unit is a group of players specializing in kicking and blocking during kicking situations such as punts, field goals, and extra point attempts.

Kickers and punters are the most important members of the special teams unit. They are responsible for kicking the ball to the other team during kickoff, punt, field goal, and extra point attempts. Kickers must have a strong leg to kick the ball far enough to make it difficult for the other team to return it. Punters must be able to punt the ball high into the air so that it will land inside the other team’s 20-yard line.

The special teams unit also includes the long snapper, who snaps the ball back to the punter or holder during kicking situations. The long snapper must be accurate and have a strong arm to snap the ball correctly.

The players on the special teams unit must be able to run fast and block effectively. They must be able to tackle opposing players who are trying to return kicks or punts for a touchdown.

The Benefits of a Special Teams Unit

While the primary focus of any football team is to score points on offense and prevent points on defense, the kicking game and field position play a big role in the outcome of games. That’s where special teams come in.

Special teams units are made up of players who specialize inkickoffs, punts, field goals, and extra points. These units are often made up of backups or reserve players who don’t see much time on offense or defense. Because of this, special teams can be a great way for young or inexperienced players to get time on the field and make an impact.

In addition to providing a chance for younger or reserve players to get experience, special teams also have a big impact on the game. A good special teams unit can give a team good field position, which gives them a better chance to score points. A strong kicking game can also help a team win close games.

If you’re wondering whether or not your team should have a special teams unit, the answer is likely yes. Special teams can provide a boost to your team’s offense and defense, and they can also be a great way for younger players to get experience on the field.

The Drawbacks of a Special Teams Unit

There are a few drawbacks to having a special teams unit. First, it takes up a roster spot that could be used for another player. Second, it can be expensive to have a dedicated special teams unit, as you need to pay for their salaries and benefits. Finally, it can be disruptive to have a special teams unit, as they may need to travel more and practice more than the rest of the team.

Conclusion

A special teams unit is a group of players on a football team who are responsible for carrying out specific tasks during kicking situations. These players usually include the kicker, punter, long snapper, and several other players who help protect them while they are performing their jobs. Special teams units typically only see action during kicking plays, but they can also be called upon to perform other duties such as returning kicks or blocking for the returner.