Rugby-Style Punting: Coverage Strategies

with JJ Aller,
Lee's Summit West High School (MO) Special Teams Coordinator;
over 12 years of coaching experience at the collegiate and professional levels;
former Special Teams/Strength & Conditioning Intern with the NFL's Jacksonville Jaguars

"Coach Aller's Rugby Punting Series gives a detailed explanation of the advantages of the rugby punt. It is a comprehensive series that covers the techniques used by the punter as well as all aspects of coverage and protection. The teaching progression from the board to his video give a thorough understanding on how to use the rugby punt. If you are using or considering the rugby punt it is definitely worth your time." - Willie Fritz, Tulane University Head Coach

After installing the rugby-style punt at Lee's Summit West High School, JJ Aller's punt coverage unit limited their opposition to only five total return yards on 41 attempts the entire season. Giving up a net return of less than a yard on average, Aller's rugby punt scheme flipped field position on every punt with virtually no return. In this video, he shares his coverage techniques associated with his rugby-style punting approach.

Philosophy and Protection Rules

Coach Aller begins by explaining the philosophy behind the shield punt system. The shield punt allows the punting team to consistently pressure the return team with the threat of a fake by using unique formations. Additionally, teams that employ rugby-style punting typically see fewer punts returned and much better coverage. You'll get details about the basic responsibilities and alignment rules for each player. Blocking rules and techniques are covered and shown on game film by Aller.

Coverage Rules and Fake Punt Plays

Coach Aller gives an in-depth explanation of the coverage rules for each position with the rugby punt system. Extensive film review is also included, in which Coach Aller provides coaching points and touches on some of the issues that can arise from running a rugby punt system.

No approach to punting is complete without fakes. Aller runs through several kinds of fakes and explains what he and his staff look for in scouting an opponent that would increase their chances of a successful fake punt. As an added bonus, Coach Aller covers the coaching points he uses with their punter to help ensure the best rugby-style punt.

Coach Aller does an excellent job giving a detailed explanation on the rugby punt system. The rugby punt has made a dramatic impact on both the college and high school game, and with the help of this video, your team will greatly improve its punting efficiency!

64 minutes. 2019.