Playbooks
The Nfl Kick Return set is the standard return package within the Kick Return formation, and it is built for field position rather than route concepts. Instead of receivers and route combos, it deploys a front line of blockers, a second level of lead blockers, and deep returners in the landing zone. Every play in the set is a blocking scheme that sets up a lane for your returner: Return Middle Match Up, Return Left Lead, and Return Right Lead.
What separates this set from alternative looks like hands team packages is its intent. The Nfl Kick Return set assumes a deep kick and commits all eleven players to blocking and ball security in the return game. Return Middle Match Up assigns blockers man on man against the coverage unit and tries to create a vertical crease up the middle. Return Left Lead and Return Right Lead flow the blocking toward one sideline and pull lead blockers in front of the returner to seal the edge and wall off pursuit.
The matchup advantage comes from direction and personnel. By choosing a side and stacking lead blockers there, you isolate the coverage player the kicking team is using as its contain defender and outnumber the coverage lanes on that side of the field. Pair that with an elite speed and acceleration returner in your depth chart, and a single sealed block can turn a routine return into a short field or a house call.
Use Return Middle Match Up as your default when you cannot read the kicker's tendency, since it gives you a playable lane regardless of where the ball lands between the hashes.
Track which side the opponent's user-controlled coverage player lines up on and call Return Left Lead or Return Right Lead away from him to force the AI to make the contain play.
If the ball is caught deep and your blocking has not formed, take the touchback rather than forcing a return into an unblocked coverage wave, especially late in close games.
Set your fastest, most elusive player as the primary kick returner in the depth chart and avoid sprinting immediately; let the lead blockers engage, then accelerate through the crease.
When trailing late and expecting an onside kick, switch out of the Nfl Kick Return set to a hands team look, and only return to it once the opponent shows a consistent deep kick.