2025 Convention Recap | Darren Jackson, Hampton | Special Teams Philosophy
May 21, 2025
Darren Jackson serves as the Special Teams Coordinator and Cornerbacks coach at Hampton University. Before joining Hampton, Jackson gained coaching experience at several institutions, including Sterling College, Thomas Jefferson Classical, Colorado Mesa, Evangel, Liberty, Trinity Bible, University Christian School, Apprentice School, and Virginia Episcopal School. Additionally, he was recognized as a member of the 2020 AFCA 35 Under 35 class.
Special Teams Philosophy
In this video clip, Coach Jackson outlines his overall Special Teams and Kickoff Coverage philosophy, focusing on the key elements that contribute to a successful and aggressive coverage unit. He emphasizes the importance of relentless effort, disciplined execution, and the need for players to set the tone with aggressive play. Additionally, he highlights the role of the kicker in executing directional kicking, hang time, and distance, while stressing the importance of team effort to cover up any mistakes. The section also covers the essential drills designed to refine these skills and ensure high-level performance on the field.
Five Principles:
- #KISS – Keep it Simple & Sound
- #SELFLESS – Do your job!
- #EXPLOSION – Be explosive for 5 to 12 seconds of a play
- #RELENTLESS – Always have a relentless effort
- #NEVERGIVEUP – Establish the winning edge
Special Forces Musts:
- Set the tempo/attitude
- Control field position
- Control momentum
- Score or set-up a score
- Cover and tackle well
Kickoff Coverage Philosophy
Relentless Effort:
Players need to approach every play with aggression and the desire to set the tone. On average, each play lasts between 5 to 12 seconds. The mindset is to “be the hammer, not the nail,” constantly pushing the action forward.
Aggressive/Disciplined Coverage:
Players must combine reckless abandon with discipline, trusting their coaching. They should use speed to beat blockers, maintain their assigned lanes, and avoid getting caught up in block techniques. This balance of aggression and discipline allows the coverage unit to perform at a high level.
An Effective Kicker:
The kicker must have a solid understanding of directional kicking, hang time, and distance. A kicker who can execute these fundamentals provides the foundation for the coverage team, but when everyone plays hard, together, and with intensity, they can cover up any potential mistakes by the kicker.
Kickoff Drills:
The focus is on keeping drills simple and fundamental, ensuring athletes can execute at a high level. Key drills include:
- Triangle Pursuit
- Down the Line
- Box & Fit
For more information about the AFCA, visit www.AFCA.com. For more interesting articles, check out The Insider and subscribe to our weekly email.
If you are interested in more in-depth articles and videos, please become an AFCA member. You can find out more information about membership and specific member benefits on the AFCA Membership Overview page. If you are ready to join, please fill out the AFCA Membership Application.
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Darren Jackson serves as the Special Teams Coordinator and Cornerbacks coach at Hampton University. Before joining Hampton, Jackson gained coaching experience at several institutions, including Sterling College, Thomas Jefferson Classical, Colorado Mesa, Evangel, Liberty, Trinity Bible, University Christian School, Apprentice School, and Virginia Episcopal School. Additionally, he was recognized as a member of the 2020 AFCA 35 Under 35 class.
Special Teams Philosophy
In this video clip, Coach Jackson outlines his overall Special Teams and Kickoff Coverage philosophy, focusing on the key elements that contribute to a successful and aggressive coverage unit. He emphasizes the importance of relentless effort, disciplined execution, and the need for players to set the tone with aggressive play. Additionally, he highlights the role of the kicker in executing directional kicking, hang time, and distance, while stressing the importance of team effort to cover up any mistakes. The section also covers the essential drills designed to refine these skills and ensure high-level performance on the field.
Five Principles:
- #KISS – Keep it Simple & Sound
- #SELFLESS – Do your job!
- #EXPLOSION – Be explosive for 5 to 12 seconds of a play
- #RELENTLESS – Always have a relentless effort
- #NEVERGIVEUP – Establish the winning edge
Special Forces Musts:
- Set the tempo/attitude
- Control field position
- Control momentum
- Score or set-up a score
- Cover and tackle well
Kickoff Coverage Philosophy
Relentless Effort:
Players need to approach every play with aggression and the desire to set the tone. On average, each play lasts between 5 to 12 seconds. The mindset is to “be the hammer, not the nail,” constantly pushing the action forward.
Aggressive/Disciplined Coverage:
Players must combine reckless abandon with discipline, trusting their coaching. They should use speed to beat blockers, maintain their assigned lanes, and avoid getting caught up in block techniques. This balance of aggression and discipline allows the coverage unit to perform at a high level.
An Effective Kicker:
The kicker must have a solid understanding of directional kicking, hang time, and distance. A kicker who can execute these fundamentals provides the foundation for the coverage team, but when everyone plays hard, together, and with intensity, they can cover up any potential mistakes by the kicker.
Kickoff Drills:
The focus is on keeping drills simple and fundamental, ensuring athletes can execute at a high level. Key drills include:
- Triangle Pursuit
- Down the Line
- Box & Fit
For more information about the AFCA, visit www.AFCA.com. For more interesting articles, check out The Insider and subscribe to our weekly email.
If you are interested in more in-depth articles and videos, please become an AFCA member. You can find out more information about membership and specific member benefits on the AFCA Membership Overview page. If you are ready to join, please fill out the AFCA Membership Application.
