- Human Missile: A high-risk, high-reward special teams role focused on blocking punts.
- Best targets: Return specialists setting up too deep or punters with slow operation times.
- Key mechanic: Timing the leap to avoid roughing penalties while maximizing block chances.
- Critical tip: Aim for the punter's kicking foot side to disrupt the spiral.
- Top choice: Use against teams with poor offensive line communication or long snapping issues.
Identifying the Best Targets
Selecting the right target is crucial for the Human Missile strategy. Not every punt formation is vulnerable to a direct rush. You must analyze the alignment of the personal protector (PP) and the speed of the punter's operation.
Video Highlights:
- Tim Dwight demonstrates aggressive pursuit angles.
- The importance of closing the "six feet" gap immediately.
- Why giving the return specialist "room" leads to big plays.
The most effective targets are often punters who hold the ball too long or formations where the shield wall is weak. If the opposition's PP is focused solely on the return team's exterior rushers, the A-gap (the space between the center and guard) becomes a prime entry point for a Human Missile.
Avoid leaping if the punter has already released the ball. Targeting the punter after the kick is a guaranteed penalty and negates any momentum gained from the block attempt.
Target Analysis Table
Understanding which specific units on the field are vulnerable allows for strategic deployment. Below is a breakdown of potential targets and their vulnerability levels.
| Target Role | Vulnerability | Risk Level | Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Punter | High | High | Focus on the operation time. If they take >1.2 seconds, attack. |
| Personal Protector | Medium | Medium | If they are looking at the gunners, they aren't looking at you. |
| Long Snapper | Low | Very High | Hard to hit cleanly; often results in a penalty if missed. |
| Gunners | Low | Low | Ignore them unless they are blocking your path to the punter. |
| Upback | Medium | Low | Check if they are "leaking" out to receive a fake. |
Watch the Personal Protector's helmet. If they turn their head to track a wide receiver, the interior gap is exposed. This is the "Green Light" moment.
Optimal Pursuit Angles
The path you take determines your success rate. A straight line is rarely the most effective route due to the blocking "shield" formed by the offense.
The A-Gap Rush
- Highest Reward
- Direct path to punter
- Requires precise timing
The B-Gap Loop
- Safer Approach
- Avoids the center
- Forces the PP to choose
The Wide Speed Rush
- Distraction Focus
- Bends the edge
- Opens gaps for teammates
When targeting the best punts, look for the "shield" to break down. If the blockers engage too early with your teammates, they leave lanes open. As seen in the footage, aggressive players like Tim Dwight don't wait for blocks to develop; they attack the space before the offensive line can set.
Execution Strategy
Executing the perfect Human Missile play requires a sequence of movements. You must generate speed without losing control.
The Pre-Snap Read
Identify the weak link in the protection. Is the PP offset? Is a guard slow off the ball?
The Launch
At the snap, explode forward. Do not hesitate. Your goal is to reach the punter as he catches the snap.
The Evasion
Use a subtle swim move or rip move to shed the first blocker. Do not get locked up in a block; your momentum is your weapon.
The Leap
If you are close but blocked, leap vertically with hands up. This deflects the punt without hitting the punter late.
The Finish
If unblocked, wrap up the punter cleanly. A sack here results in a massive momentum swing and potential safety.
A successful Human Missile play doesn't always mean a block. Even a near-miss forces a shanked punt, improving field position for your offense.
Goals and Checklist
To master the Human Missile role, focus on these objectives during games and practice sessions.
Session Goals:
- Identify the PP alignment before every snap
- Time the snap count perfectly (zero offside penalties)
- Execute one blocked punt or deflected kick per game
- Maintain outside leverage when rushing from the edge
- Avoid roughing the kicker penalties
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the 'Human Missile' role in special teams?
The Human Missile refers to a dedicated punt rusher, often a fast and agile player, who sacrifices coverage responsibilities to aggressively attack the punter and block kicks.
Q: Who are the best targets for this strategy?
The best targets are punters with slow operation times (over 1.3 seconds) and formations where the personal protector is distracted or the offensive line has weak interior gaps.
Q: How do I avoid roughing the kicker penalties?
Focus on the ball. If the ball is gone, pull up or attempt to deflect the kick with a vertical leap rather than hitting the punter. Initiate contact while the ball is still in the punter's possession.
Q: Is this strategy effective against all teams?
No. Teams with quick-kicking punters and strong interior offensive lines are less vulnerable. It is most effective against teams that hold the ball longer or have complex protection schemes that confuse the blockers.