Playbooks
Landingzone Heavy Return Right is a kick return play that stacks extra blockers to the right side of the field, forming a heavy wedge to spring the returner toward the right sideline and up the numbers. This is a run-based special teams play, not a pass concept, so the primary read progression starts with identifying the first wave of blockers setting the wedge, then locating the alley created by the second level blockers before cutting downhill. The return man should key the coverage lane developing on the right hash before committing to the outside crease.
Identify the gunners closing fastest off the kick, they dictate how quickly your right side alley closes. Read the coverage team's leverage on the right hash, if they crash inside early, bounce your path further outside the numbers. Watch for a contain defender staying home on the right sideline, this is the primary threat that can blow up the heavy return lane. Key the second level defenders filling downhill, if they overrun the play you should cut back against the grain. If the coverage unit consistently wins outside contain on this look, switch to Landingzone Return Middle Trap to attack the seam instead.
Take control of your returner immediately at the catch point and survey the wedge before making any lateral movement.
Watch how the kicking team sets its lanes pre-snap, if they overload the left side, this right heavy return exploits the vacated right edge.
Use manual juke or spin moves only after your blockers engage, patience through the first five yards is critical to let the wedge form.
Pair this play with Landingzone Return Left in your return sequence so opponents cannot key on a single direction and adjust their kickoff lane setup.
Best used against kicking teams that consistently kick short or squib, since the heavy blocking numbers on the right can seal off contain defenders before they close the gap.