Kicking and punting have been integral parts of the game of football since its inception. In the early days of the sport, kicking and punting were used primarily as a means of advancing the ball down the field and scoring points. Over time, however, the techniques and strategies involved in kicking and punting have evolved and become a crucial aspect of modern football strategy.
The origins of kicking and punting in football can be traced back to the early 19th century when the game was first played at schools and universities in England and the United States. At that time, the rules of football were very different from those of today, and kicking and punting were used in a variety of ways. For example, a player could punt the ball to himself to advance it down the field, or a team could attempt to score a goal by kicking the ball through a set of goalposts.
History of kicking and punting through the years
The history of football reveals that the evolution of the sport has led to significant changes in the techniques and strategies used for kicking and punting. As the game became more dynamic and efficient with the introduction of the forward pass, kicking and punting became even more important for field position and scoring opportunities. This shift in emphasis led to the development of specialized techniques and strategies, such as the soccer-style kick and the rugby-style punt.
Soccer-style kicking, which involves approaching the ball from an angle and making contact with the instep of the foot, became popular in the 1960s and 1970s. It was initially adopted by soccer players who transitioned to football, and its popularity grew as it allowed for greater accuracy and distance on field goals and kickoffs. The rugby-style punt, on the other hand, involves running to the side before kicking the ball, allowing for more hang time and directional control.
Modern football strategy relies heavily on field position, and kickers and punters play a critical role in achieving this. Teams may use their kickers and punters to pin opponents deep in their own territory, or to attempt field goals from long distances. The use of trick plays, such as fake punts and onside kicks, can also be effective in securing a game-changing advantage. Additionally, kickers may be relied upon to manage the clock in critical situations, such as attempting a last-second field goal to win the game.
The evolution of football has led to significant changes in the techniques and strategies used for kicking and punting. Today, kicking and punting remain essential components of modern football strategy, with coaches and teams using a variety of approaches to take advantage of field position, scoring opportunities, and clock management. Kickers and punters are critical players on the field, and their contributions can often be the difference between winning and losing.
The kicking and punting greats
Throughout the history of the sport, there have been many notable kickers and punters who have left their mark on the game. Some of the most famous include Lou Groza, Jan Stenerud, Ray Guy, and Tom Dempsey for their iconic talents. These players are remembered for their skill, accuracy, and consistency, and they continue to inspire and influence kickers and punters today.
In conclusion, the history of kicking and punting in football is a fascinating and important part of the sport’s evolution. From its humble beginnings as a way to advance the ball down the field, kicking and punting have become a vital part of modern football strategy. The techniques and strategies involved in kicking and punting continue to evolve and improve, and they remain a critical aspect of the game.
If you haven’t already, check out the art of kicking ebook as I discuss a lot more kicking material in depth! Also, please consider subscribing to my newsletter to get exclusive tips and tricks not discussed anywhere else!
