Excelling in Special Teams
May 6, 2024
Travis Burkett is the head coach at the College of the Sequoias in Visalia, California. He has overseen a remarkable period of success for the Giants, marking the program’s best stretch in 25 years. Under Burkett, the team has appeared in three bowl games in three years. While the Giants have excelled across all aspects of the game, Burkett emphasizes the significance of special teams in the team’s success.
Burkett’s approach to special teams requires involvement from every person on the coaching staff. He uses a detailed checklist when working on special teams. This checklist is a crucial tool, encompassing all core fundamentals, techniques, special situations, and drills important to each unit. Burkett makes sure to run through every special situation that could come up in a game before the season starts.
One key aspect Burkett highlights is the importance of placement kicks, often referred to as the “money signature” of the team. Burkett emphasizes the importance of the PAT & field goal unit, which he dubs the “money unit.” Burkett expects flawless execution from the PAT field goal kicker, particularly within the 25-yard line. The alignment and execution of PATs are planned to optimize success, including strategic positioning to mitigate the rush, maintain kicker focus, and control tempo.
Burkett also emphasizes the significance of specialized techniques for scenarios such as tackle-over situations and pressure kicks. These require consistent practice and execution to ensure they are successful during a game. Clear communication and coaching are essential to ensure that every player understands their role and responsibilities in these moments.
Coach Burkett also places importance on the punt block unit. He encourages his players to approach punt block returns with enthusiasm, labeling them as a “block party.” Each player is assigned specific roles within the scheme, with detailed instructions for gap assignments and responsibilities. Burkett emphasizes the importance of disciplined execution, particularly in scoop and score situations, where proper technique can lead to game-changing opportunities.
In pursuit of regaining possession, Burkett outlines various free kick options, including sky kicks and squib kicks. These are used strategically to disrupt opponents’ momentum and regain control of the game. Burkett stresses the importance of commitment and numerical advantage in executing these tactics effectively.
Overall, Burkett’s approach to special teams highlights the need for attention to detail, strategic planning, and disciplined execution. By instilling a culture of excellence and accountability, Burkett believes special teams have played a pivotal role in elevating the College of the Sequoias football program to new heights.
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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Travis Burkett is the head coach at the College of the Sequoias in Visalia, California. He has overseen a remarkable period of success for the Giants, marking the program’s best stretch in 25 years. Under Burkett, the team has appeared in three bowl games in three years. While the Giants have excelled across all aspects of the game, Burkett emphasizes the significance of special teams in the team’s success.
Burkett’s approach to special teams requires involvement from every person on the coaching staff. He uses a detailed checklist when working on special teams. This checklist is a crucial tool, encompassing all core fundamentals, techniques, special situations, and drills important to each unit. Burkett makes sure to run through every special situation that could come up in a game before the season starts.
One key aspect Burkett highlights is the importance of placement kicks, often referred to as the “money signature” of the team. Burkett emphasizes the importance of the PAT & field goal unit, which he dubs the “money unit.” Burkett expects flawless execution from the PAT field goal kicker, particularly within the 25-yard line. The alignment and execution of PATs are planned to optimize success, including strategic positioning to mitigate the rush, maintain kicker focus, and control tempo.
Burkett also emphasizes the significance of specialized techniques for scenarios such as tackle-over situations and pressure kicks. These require consistent practice and execution to ensure they are successful during a game. Clear communication and coaching are essential to ensure that every player understands their role and responsibilities in these moments.
Coach Burkett also places importance on the punt block unit. He encourages his players to approach punt block returns with enthusiasm, labeling them as a “block party.” Each player is assigned specific roles within the scheme, with detailed instructions for gap assignments and responsibilities. Burkett emphasizes the importance of disciplined execution, particularly in scoop and score situations, where proper technique can lead to game-changing opportunities.
In pursuit of regaining possession, Burkett outlines various free kick options, including sky kicks and squib kicks. These are used strategically to disrupt opponents’ momentum and regain control of the game. Burkett stresses the importance of commitment and numerical advantage in executing these tactics effectively.
Overall, Burkett’s approach to special teams highlights the need for attention to detail, strategic planning, and disciplined execution. By instilling a culture of excellence and accountability, Burkett believes special teams have played a pivotal role in elevating the College of the Sequoias football program to new heights.
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.
