Game threads are for hot takes. But every once in awhile a topic in there is clearly a correct take and should be hashed out further. Let’s discuss special teams and what that should look like in 2020.
Wake needs a complete overhaul on special teams philosophy and a new coach most likely. Every one thinks they are a better offensive coordinator than any coach, and everyone thinks “we should blitz more” after every opponent’s first down. However, I am actually wondering if anyone knows anything about the nuance of special teams? My thoughts below:
- Kicker can’t kick it out of end zone? Fine, adjust and have the most accurate kicker in NCAA history chip it to the 30 (like he did). Why did that take 10 games and 3 quarters to figure out? We knew this was a concern in the preseason.
- Don’t want to rush the punter because you trust the O and Clawson has stated his concern about a roughing penalty? Sure, then set up a scheme to block for the returner. In the worst alternative, but still better than what we currently do, just fair catch it every time. If Hinton doesn’t sit down there, 7 dirty Duke players had open season on him.
- Would Dom Maggio average 60 yards a punt if he faced Wake? Above point about not rushing the punter I understand, but teams know we do not ever go for the punt block so in wet rainy conditions the punter can still take his time and never has to shorten his steps. Further, with no real punt return strategy, the punter is also free to out kick his coverage with zero negative consequences. See that second punt last night. Dom would be an All-American if he knew a team would not rush him and he did not have to hang it high to help his coverage team.
Need a change on special teams, now.
Wake needs a complete overhaul on special teams philosophy and a new coach most likely. Every one thinks they are a better offensive coordinator than any coach, and everyone thinks “we should blitz more” after every opponent’s first down. However, I am actually wondering if anyone knows anything about the nuance of special teams? My thoughts below:
- Kicker can’t kick it out of end zone? Fine, adjust and have the most accurate kicker in NCAA history chip it to the 30 (like he did). Why did that take 10 games and 3 quarters to figure out? We knew this was a concern in the preseason.
- Don’t want to rush the punter because you trust the O and Clawson has stated his concern about a roughing penalty? Sure, then set up a scheme to block for the returner. In the worst alternative, but still better than what we currently do, just fair catch it every time. If Hinton doesn’t sit down there, 7 dirty Duke players had open season on him.
- Would Dom Maggio average 60 yards a punt if he faced Wake? Above point about not rushing the punter I understand, but teams know we do not ever go for the punt block so in wet rainy conditions the punter can still take his time and never has to shorten his steps. Further, with no real punt return strategy, the punter is also free to out kick his coverage with zero negative consequences. See that second punt last night. Dom would be an All-American if he knew a team would not rush him and he did not have to hang it high to help his coverage team.
Need a change on special teams, now.
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