SECTION III

CINCINNATI BENGALS
KICKOFF RETURN

-- - .- -

37
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURJ~
Important Rules

I. IMPORTANT RULES

1. Any kick which travels more than 10 yards is a live ball. The kicking
team may recover the kick, but only the receiving team may advance it
unless the receiver fumbles after he has been declared in possession.

2. The kick must travel 10 yards to be a legal kick unless the receiving team
touches it within that first 10 yards, then it becomes a live ball. Either
team may recover the kick, but only the receiving team may advance it,
unless the receiver fumbles after he has had possession.

3. A kickoff which goes out-of-bounds without being touched by the

receiving team causes a penalty against the kicking team. The receiving
team has the option of taking possession at the out-of-bounds spot or 30
yards from the spot of the kick. If the receiving team touches the ball prior
to the ball going out-of-bounds, it is their ball at the point in which the ball
traveled out-of-bounds.

4. The fair catch rule is in effect for kickoffs. Once the receiving team has
fair caught the ball, they can put the ball into play with a free kick if they
so choose.

5. The member of a kicking team may use their hands or arms to push, pull,
or ward -off a blocker in an attempt to recover the ball except in the first 10
yards unless it is first touched by the receiving team.

6. Neither team may block below the waist (15 yard penalty).

7. A free-kick after a safety has the same exact rules as the kickoff except.
that the restraining line for kicking teams is the 20 yard line. The kicking
team may also choose to punt the ball.

8. If the momentum of the kicked ball takes it into the endzone, even ifit is
touched by the receiving team, it can be downed in the endzone by the
receiving team:

9. A kickoff recovered by the kicking team in the endzone is a touchdown.

10. If a kicking team is offside, the receiving team has the option of taking
the play or ma1<ing the kicking 1~am. re-.kick with a 5 yard penalty.

38
CINCINNATI BEN GALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Important Rules - Continued:

11. Onside kicks:

a. On an onside kick that goes out-of-bounds without being touched
by the receiving team, it is a 5 yard penalty and a re-kick. (If
touched by the receiving team prior to going out, it is their ball at
the spot in which the ball travels out-of-bounds).

b. If onside is illegally touched by the kicking team prior to 10 yards,

the receiving team has an option offorcing a re-kick with a 5 yard
penalty.

c. After 2 or more consecutive out-of-bound of short free kicks, the

receiving team has the option of taking the ball at the dead ball
spot. ,.

12. The time clock:

a. The clock will start when the ball is kicked except during the last 2
minutes of either half. The clock will then start when the ball is
legally touched.

b. A kickoff return is considered a change of possession and the clock

will stop after the play. (Don't waste a timeout).

39
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Success On Kickoff Returns

II. SUCCESS ON KICKOFF RETURNS

1. BE SECURE. We must make good decisions in fielding the ball and

taking care of it. No giveaways.

2. NO MENTAL ERRORS. Everyone knows their assignment. Be

prepared at all times for the surprise kick. No whiffs or ME's on your
blocking assignments.

3. GET POSITIVE FIELD POSITION. We want to average getting the

ball at least to the -26 yard line. No starts inside the -20. Returners must
run hard and tough. "

4. NO PENAL TIES. Penalties on K.O. returns can negate a positive play

for us and put our offense in poor field position.

5. MAKE THE BIG PLAY. Good returns will occur because we are
consistently doing all of the above in combination with GREAT
EFFORT & EXECUTION.

** B E CON SIS TEN T **

40
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
General Information

III. GENERAL INFORMATION

1. FRONT 5 - You will align with your back foot on the 45-yard line facing
into the ball. The center will offset slightly away from the kicker 14
yards off the ball.

2. ENDS - You will aligri on the numbers straddling the 30 yard line.

3. WEDGES - You will align on the hashes on the 20 yard line.

4. RETUMTERS - will align 2 yards outside the hashes at a depth prescribed

by the scouting report. A general rule of thumb is not to run the ball out of
the endzone if a kick is deeper than 4 yards into the endzone.

5. We must always be alert for the onside kick. Keep your eyes on the ball
and never tum and run without seeing the ball being kicked.

6. Remember that we can "fair catch" a short high kick.

7. Convert all short kicks and flat kicks fielded by the ends into straight
wedge returns (May-Day Return). Field the ball and get positive yardage.
WEDGES DO NOT FIELD THE BALL.

8. Know your assignment and get into position to execute it.

9. Timing is essential. Deep high kicks force you to run further to get the
proper relationship.

10. The returner receiving the ball is responsible for a "GO" call to the
wedgemen.

11. The wedgemen come together 15 yards in front of the ball. Get within
arms distance of each other and start forward on the "GO" call.

12. The right returner will be responsible for declaring who fields the ball
between the hashes.

13. Everyone must know the direction and depth of the kick. Don't run
blindly as we must adjust the blocking angles according to the type of kick
we receive.

41
 CINCINNATI BEN GALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Personnel, Alignment, and Numbering System

IV. PERSONNEL, ALIGNMENT, AND NUMBERING SYSTEM

L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 K R5 R4 R3 R2 R 1
30 :
=
~

'- :
t:: :
'- T # G # :
'- G G T
40 t:: :
~ " :
'- -
~ :
f-- -
50 ~
I-
:
-
I- -
:
t::- :
- , :
40 -'-- -
:
;::: , -
'- :
~
I- LE RE -
30 :: :.
--
= ,
:
t::
'-
'- # LW RW # -
-
20 I=- :
'-
- , :
t:: :
'- :
'-
10 t: -
:LR RR :.
~ -
~ :.
G
: - :.
- -
--'ENDZONE '

42
"
 CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Kickoff Return Guidelines

v. KICKOFF RETURN GUIDELINES

1. Know your assignment

a. On Right and Left returns, be alert for possible May-Day
adjustments.
b. Know your rule.s vs. crosses and sprinters.

2. Keep your eyes on the ball.

a. Be alert for possible onside kicks or line drive, flat type kicks.
b. Know the depth and direction of the kick as we must adjust our
depth and blocking angles accordingly.

3. Key the kickers approach. Most kickers will give us a cue as to where the
ball is going to be kicked. Know these cues as it will allow us to adjust
our blocking angles.

4. Every K.O. return is potentially a big play for us. More importantly,
however, we must be secure and consistent with our returns.

c 5. Our Right Returner will be our "call man" and field every ball he can get
to.
a. Ends be alert for possible fair catch type kicks.

6. No Penalties! Sprint and hustle to get proper positioning on blocks.

Negative penalties always force our offense to start with terrible field
position.

7. Timing is the essence ofK.O. Returns. We must work to get an

understanding of when and where to execute our blocks.

8. Be persistent and tenacious in executing blocking assignments. Stay after

your man even ifhe runs away from you. Our returner has a chance even
if the defender takes away your angle, as long as you stay with your block.

u
43
CINCINNATI BEN GALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Returner Responsibilities

VI. RETURNER RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Communication is essential between the LR and the RR. We must make

good decisions in fielding and returning kicks. No indecision.

2. Timing is critical on K,o. returns. Field the ball cleanly and yell "go"
once you start upfield.

3. Set up blocks for you teammates by using proper I Back, Near Back, or
Far Back running lanes..

4. Read your lead blockers.path and their blocks. We are normally trying to
kick out defenders, but you may have to bounce outside if the defenders
are sealed inside.

5. Stay with your return unless you cannot get to the normal running lane due
to the defenders shutting it down. Then get positive yards and protect the
balJ.

6. When running left and right returns, remember if you cut back inside, try
to get back outside because you are going back into pursuit as our
blocking angles are pushing people inside.

7. The off returner not catching the ball is an important part of our blocking
schemes. You are either a lead blocker or personal protector. On left and
right returns, the off returner must be prepared to block the backside if
there is a threat from the backside.

8. Study the kicker. His alignment and approach will tell you where he is
trying to kick the ball. Know his tendencies, his average distance, and'
hang time.

9. Be conscious of wind conditions and line up appropriately.

10. Know the game situation and if a certain type of K. O. strategy may be
employed by the opponent.

11. Remember, you do not have to bring every ball out of the endzone, but
you do have to catch or cover every kick in the end zone.

'12. A
Important rule:' Imiffed kick-In tlie field of play that goes into the
endzone must be covered by us, but we can still down it in the endzone.

44
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN· Continued:
Kickoff Returns
Bengal Right· Double R4 Responsibilities

VII. KICKOFF RETURNS

A. BENGAL RIGHT· DOUBLE R4 RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Right Tackle
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the #'s.
Assignment - Double R4
Technique· Drive off the LOS. Attack #4 outside-in.
2. Right Guard
Alignment· 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the hash.
Assignment - Double R4.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Get on top ofR4.
3. Center "
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Split the difference between
the hashes.
Assignment - Block L5.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Block L5 inside-out and away
from the returner. Soften the coverage.
4. Left Guard
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the hash.
Assignment - Block L4.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Block L4 inside· out and away
from the returner. Soften the coverage.
5. Left Tackle
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the #'s.
Assignment - Block L3.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Block L3 inside-out and away
from the returner. Soften the coverage.
6. Right End
Alignment - 30 yard line. Align on the #'s.
Assignment - Trap R5.
Technique - Use a Stalkffrap technique.
7. Left End
Alignment - 30 yard line. Align on the #' s.
Assignment - Block the Most Dangerous Man (MDM).
Technique - Take a 45 degree angled drop to the middle of the
field (5'5 location). Block the MDM. Be alert to help on the
backside.
8. Right Wedge
Alignment - 20 yard line. Align on the right hash.
Assi~eni - Brock Riinside-6ut. ..
Technique - Running drive/stalk block on R2.

45
CINCINNATI BEN GALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Kickoff Returns - Continued: .
Bengal Right - Double R4 Responsibilities - Continued:

9. Left Wedge
Alignment - 20.yard line. Align on the left hash.
Assignment - Block R3.
Technique - Running drive/stalk block on R3.
10. Left Returner
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the hash.
Assignment - See the ball secured. Block Rl and "Help Alert."
Technique - Varies. Mostly controlled explosive block.
11. Right Returner .
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the hash.
Assignment - M¥e all the calls. Field the ball.
Technique - Vertical push, sell, and then burst to the wedge.

46
 CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURi"l- Continued:
Kickoff Returns - Continued:
Bengal Right Double R4 Diagram

B. BENGAL RIGHT DOUBLE R4 DIAGRAM

L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 K R5 R4 R3 R2 R 1
30

T # G c
40

50 I
I
I

I
I
40 R5 I
I

LE RE I
30 MOM

R2
# LW RW
20

10
LR
.RR
G
ENDZONE
47
"
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Kickoff Returns - Continued:
Bengal Left - Double L4 Responsibilities

C. BENGAL LEFT - DOUBLE L4 RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Right Tackle
Alignment - 14'yards from the ball. Five yards outside the #'s.
Assignment - Block R3.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Block R3 inside-out and away
from the returner. Soften the coverage.
2. Right Guard
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the hash.
Assignment - Block R4.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Block R4 inside-out and away
from the returner. Soften the coverage.
3. Center C

Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Split the difference between

the hashes.
Assignment - Block RS.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Block RS inside-out and away
from the returner. Soften the coverage.
4. Left Guard
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the hash.
Assignment - Double L4.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Get on top ofL4.
5. Left Tackle
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the #'s.
Assignment - Block L4.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Attack L4 outside-in.
6. Right End
Alignment - 30 yard line. Align on the #' s.
Assignment - Block the Most Dangerous Man (MDM).
Technique - Take a 45 degree angled drop to the middle of the
field (5' 5 location). Block the MDM. Be alert to help on the
backside.
7. Left End
Alignment - 30 yard line. Align on the #' s.
Assignment - Trap L5.
Technique - Use a Stalk!Trap technique.
8. Right Wedge
Alignment - 20 yard line. Align on the right hash.
Assignment - Block L3 inside-out.
T~chnique- Running drive/stalk block on L3.
- '- . " ---- -......... '

48
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Kickoff Returns - Continued:
Bengal Right - Double L4 Responsibilities - Continued:

9. Left Wedge
Alignment - 20 yard line. Align on the left hash.
Assignment - Block L2.
Technique - Running drive/stalk block on L2.
10. Left Returner
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the hash.
Assignment - See the ball secured. Block Rl and "Help Alert."
Technique - Varies. Mostly controlled explosive block.
11. Right Returner .
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the hash.
Assignment - Make all the calls. Field the ball.
Technique - Vertical push, sell, and then burst to the wedge.

-- -

49
CINCINNATI BEN GALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Kickoff Returns - Continued:
Bengal Left - Double L4 Diagram

D. BENGAL LEFT - DOUBLE L4 DIAGRAM

L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 K R5 R4 R3 R2 R1
30

T # G c G # T
40

50
.,
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Kickoff Returns - Continued:
Bengal Right - Double R3 Responsibilities

E. BENGAL RIGHT - DOUBLE R3 RESPONSIBILITIES

l. Right Tackle
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the #' s.
Assignment - Double R3
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Attack #3 outside-in.
2. Right Guard
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the hash.
Assignment - Double R3.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Get on top ofR3.
3. Center
Alignment - 14 y;rrds from the ball. Split the difference between
the hashes. Slightly off-set.
Assignment - Block R5.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Get over the top ofR5.
4. Left Guard
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the hash.
Assignment - Block L5.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Get over the top ofL5.
5. Left Tackle
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the #' s.
Assignment - Block L4.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Get over the top ofL4.
6. Right End
Alignment - 30 yard line. Align on the #' s.
Assignment - Trap R4.
Technique - Use a StalkJTrap technique.
7. Left End
Alignment - 30 yard line. Align on the #' s.
Assignment - Block the Most Dangerous Man (MDM).
Technique - Take a 45 degree angled drop to the middle of the
field (5' 5 location). Block the MDM. Be alert to help on the
backside.
* Remember that you have backsicle help from the left returner. If
the backside does not pose a threat, use two hands to push off the
biggest threat and continue on to the next level.
8. Right Wedge
Alignment - 20 yard line. Align on the right hash.
Assignment - Block RI inside-out.
Teyhnigue- R~g drjye/s..talk bloc!): on RI.

51
CINCINNATI BEN GALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Kickoff Returns - Continued:
Bengal Right - Double R3 Responsibilities - Continued:

9. Left Wedge
Alignment - 20 yard line. Align on the left hash.
Assignment - Block R2.
Technique - Running drive/stalk block on R2.
10. Left Returner
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the left hash.
Assignment - See the ball secured. Block Most Dangerous Man
(MDM) on the backside.
Technique - Seethe ball secured. Push vertical and get to the
middle of the field (5'5 location). Block the backside inside-
out and be alert t<;> the unblocked 3, 2, 1 combination.
11. Right Returner
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the right hash.
Assignment - Make all the calls. Field the ball.
Technique - Vertical push, sell, and then burst to the wedge.

52
 CINCINNATI BEN GALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Kickoff Returns - Continued:
Bengal Right - Double R3 Diagram

F. BENGAL RIGHT - DOUBLE R3 DIAGRAM

L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 K R5 R4 R3 R2 R 1
30 ~- :
-
- -
- :
=
- T # G ,C G # T :
40 r:: Ii :
= ~
(

\ , "\ .- :
~
'-
- \ \ ) ,: I :
-
-
50 ~
~
~ bL 8.L LJ!' , I
:
:
'-
~
l- I
I :
:
40 ~

I:l- R4~ I :
-
I -
I: I ~ I :
RE iI --
~ LE
30 i
I:
I: "-- MDM'
T
I \R2
:
-
-
~
20
I: # LW RW J/ R1 :
:

~/ ~
-
t:::
I: M~ . :
-
t:::
.10 I:
~
\ .\
.... "1:""' ....

.
:
:
:
I:I- LR RR --
~ :
t::: :
G .. -_.- .'
. -- -. --..... . .
ENDZONE
53
.-
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Kickoff Returns - Continued:
Bengal Left - Double L3 Responsibilities:

G. BENGAL LEFT - DOUBLE L3 RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Right Tackle .
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the #'s.
Assignment - Block R4.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Get over the top ofR4.
2. Right Guard .
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the hash.
Assignment - Block R5.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Get over the top ofR5.
3. Center
Alignment - 14 y,ards from the ball. Split the difference between
the hashes. Slightly off-set.
Assignment - Block L5.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Get over the top ofL5.
4. Left Guard
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the hash.
Assignment - Double L3.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Get over the top ofL3.
5. Left Tackle
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the #' s.
Assignment - Double L3.
Technique - Drive off the LOS. Attack #3 outside-in.
6. Right End
Alignment - 30 yard line. Align on the #'s.
Assignment - Block the Most Dangerous Man (MDM).
Technique - Take a 45 degree angled drop to the middle of the
field (5'5 location). Block the MDM. Be alert to help on the
backside.
* Remember that you have backside help from the left returner: If
the backside does not pose a threat, use two hands to push off the
biggest threat and continue on to the next level.
7. Left End
Alignment - 30 yard line. Align on the #'s.
Assignment - Trap L4.
Technique - Use a Stalkffrap technique.
S. RightVVedge
Alignment - 20 yard line. Align on the right hash.
Assignment - Block L2 inside-out.
Te.chnique ..- Running drive/stalk block on L2 .
. -' . . -
' -~... ~

54
 CINCINNATI BEN GALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Kickoff Returns - Continued:
Bengal left - Double L3 Responsibilities - Continued:

9. Left Wedge
Alignment - 20" yard line. Align on the left hash.
Assignment - Block Ll.
Technique - Running drive/stalk block on L1.
10. Left Returner '
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the left hash.
Assignment - See the ball secured. Block Most Dangerous Man
(MDM) on the backside.
Technique - See the ball secured. Push vertical and get to the
middle of the field (5'5 location). Block the backside inside-
out and be alert (0 the unblocked 3, 2, 1 combination.
11. Right Returner
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the right hash.
Assignment - Make all the calls. Field the ball.
Technique - Vertical push, sell, and then burst to the wedge.

C/'
55
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Kickoff Returns - Continued:
Bengal Left - Double L3 Diagram

H. BENGAL LEFT - DOUBLE L3 DIAGRAM

L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 K R5 R4 R3 R2 R 1
30

T # G c G # T
40

50 R4

10
LR RR

G
ENDZONE
56
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Kickoff Returns - Continued:
Bengal Middle Responsibilities:

I. BENGAL MIDDLE RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Right Tackle ,
Alignment - 14 yards from the balL Five yards outside the #'s,
Assignment - Block RJ,
Technique - Drive off the LOS, Eye and disguise getting on top of
R 4 then attack R.3 inside-out..
2, Right Guard
Alignment - 14 yards from the balL Five yards outside the hash,
Assignment - Block R4,
Technique - Drive off the LOS, Eye and disguise getting on top of
R5 then attack R:} inside-out
3, Center
Alignment - 14 yards from the balL Split the difference between
the hashes, Slightly off-set
Assignment - Block R5
Technique - Drive off the LOS, Attack R5 inside-out Set up
double team with the RW,
4, Left Guard
Alignment - 14 yards from the ball. Five yards outside the hash.
Assignment - Block L4,
Technique - Drive off the LOS, Eye and disguise getting on top of
R5 then attack R4 inside-out
5, Left Tackle
Alignment - 14 yards from the balL Five yards outside the #'s,
Assignment - Block L3,
Technique - Drive off the LOS, Eye and disguise getting on top of
L4 then attack L3 inside-out
6, Right End
Alignment - 30 yard line, Align on the #'s,
Assignment - Block the R2,3,4 combination, You are responsible
forR2,
Technique - Take a 45 degree angled drop to the middle of the
field (5'5 location), Block the 2,3,4 combination, You are
responsible for R2,
7, Left End
Alignment - 30 yard line, Align on the #'s,
Assignment - Block the L2,3,4 combination, You are responsible
forL2,
Technique-.Tak.e a 45 degrt;e angled drop to the middle of the
field (5'5 location). Block the 2,3,4 combination, You are
responsible for L2,

57

,i"
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Kickoff Returns - Continued:
Bengal Middle Responsibilities - Continued:

8. Right Wedge
Alignment - 20· yard line. Align on the right hash.
Assignment - Double R5 ..
Technique - Running drive/stalk block on R5. Work the double
tearn with the center.
9. Left Wedge
Alignment - 20 yard line. Align on the left hash.
Assignment - Double L5.
Technique - Ruiming drive/stalk block on L5. Work the double
team \vith the LR.
10. Left Returner
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the left hash.
Assignment - See the ball secured. Double L5.
Technique - See the ball secured. Running drive/stalk block on L5.
Work the double tearn with the LW.
11. Right Returner
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the right hash.
Assignment - Make all the calls. Field the ball.
Technique - Vertical push, sell, aod then burst to the wedge. This
is a vision return. Hit it where you see daylight.

***** WE WILL RUN THIS RETURN AT THE END OF A HALF OR GAME

AS TO PROVIDE A CHANGE - UP. WE WILL ALSO RUN THIS
RETURN IN ANTICIPATION OF BAD WEATHER OR BLOOP KICKS.

58
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Kickoff Returns - Continued:
Bengal Middle Diagram

J. BENGAL MIDDLE DIAGRAM

L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 K R5 R4 R3 R2 R 1
30

40
=-
=-
-
=-
f- T # G
• I
I
.C
,

G # T
.-;
:::;
-
:-
-
~ "\ ~ -=-
~ I -
~f- L4 'i
IL R4 r R3 --=-
f- L3 I 1 ,! r l

50
~ V V --
I=-
f-
f-
-
~5.,.. ~
i \R"cLV -r
=-
f- =-
~ , I , =-
40 f- I
I --=-
r=
f- I

-=- L2~ i ~R2 :-

- ~E ! ~E :-
30 -=-
c-
--- \ i
!
{
------- :-
=-
I
~
~ # U/ I
I FJW # =--
20 f-
f-
\ l!j'
'\ I =-
r= \ . =-
f-
~
I- /
,,
\. =-
=-
10 f-
~- -L~ 'RR -=-
-
=- =-
=- =-
G - -- . - -. - . -

ENDZONE
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
May Day Returns - Continued:

VII. MAY DAY RETURNS

The May Day return is designed to counter bloop and squib kicks. It is an

automatic return called by the Right Returner. It is an "Attack" return and

is designed to hit quickly. A May Day return is designed to counter bloop

and squib kicks.

60
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
May Day Returns - Continued:
May Day Middle With Bengal Right - Double R4 Responsibilities:

A. MAY DAY MIDDLE WITH BENGAL RIGHT - DOUBLE R4

RESPONSmILITIE~
1. Front Line
May Day does not pertain to you. Your blocking assignments stay
the same regardless of which return we are runrung.
2. Left End
Alignment - 30 yard line. Align on the #'s.
Assignment - Block the Most Dangerous Man (MDM) down the
middle of the field.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the middle ofth~. field, attack the middle of the field and block the
MDM with a drive/stalk block.
3. Left Wedge
Alignment - 20 yard line. Align on the left hash.
Assignment - Block the Most Dangerous Man (MDM) down the
middle of the field.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the middle of the field, attack the middle of the field and block the
MDM with a drive/stalk block.
4. Right Wedge
Alignment - 20 yard line. Align on the right hash.
Assignment - Block the Most Dangerous Man (MDM) down the
middle of the field.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the middle of the field, attack the middle of the field and block the
MDM with a drive/stalk block.
5. Right End
Alignment - 30 yard line. Align on the #'s.
Assignment - Block the Most Dangerous Man (MDM) down the
middle of the field.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the middle of the field, attack the middle of the field and block the
MDM with a drive/stalk block.
6. Left Returner
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the left hash.
Assignment - See the ball secured. Block Most Dangerous Man
(MDM) down the middle of the field.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the middle of the field, attacj( the middle of the field and block the
MDM with a drive/stalk block.

61
CINCINNATI BEN GALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
May Day Returns - Continued:
May Day Middle With Bengal Right - Double R4 Responsibilities -
Continued:

7. Right Returner
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the right hash.
Assignment - Make all the calls. Field the ball.
Technique - Make a "May Day" call when the ball is blooped or
squibbed. Field the ball and Attack the coverage. Run to daylight.

62
 CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
May Day Returns - Continued:
May Day Middle With Bengal Right - Double R4 Diagram:

B.. MAY DAY MIDDLE WITH BENGAL RIGHT - DOUBLE R4

DIAGRAM

L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 K R5 R4 R3 R2 R1
30 f: =
=
-
! :
-
I .
=
- T # G Ie G # T
:
-

40 =
= ~ "\ ;'\ ,
(
=
=
= \ \ =
-
50 =
-
I
,~
J -
-

-
- l-L hL
..
, 5
LT' -
-
:
~ MOM =
f--
f--
MOM M~lA M~M
'''T'' MOM
~
.~r".
=
40 f--
\ =
~
f-- / \ -
-

= -
-
LE~ \ "-RE =
=
30 = -
-
--
: =
-
=-- # LW \ RW #
-
=
20 = 'j -
-
- ' -
- /, -
'-L -

10
~
f--
f--
-
.
,./
) \ :
-
f= :
LR RR :
~
f--
f: =
Ie- - .•.' ... " .- -. - . .
=
G
ENDZONE
_ 63
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN- Continued:
May Day Returns - Continued:
May Day Right With Bengal Right - Double R4 Responsibilities:

C. MAY DAY RIGHT WITH BENGAL RIGHT - DOUBLE R4

RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Front Line
May Day does not pertain to you. Your blocking assignments stay
the same regardless of which return we are running.
2. Left End
Alignment - 30 yard line. Align on the #' s.
Assignment - Block R4.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the right side of the field, attack the R4 with a drive/stalk block.
3. Left Wedge c
Alignment - 20 yard line. Align on the left hash.
Assignment - Block R3.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the right side of the field, attack the R4 with a drive/stalk block.
4. Right Wedge
Alignment - 20 yard line. Align on the right hash.
Assignment - Block R2.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the right side of the field, attack the R2 with a drive/stalk block.
5. Right End
Alignment - 30 yard line. Align on the #'s.
Assignment - Block Rl.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the right side of the field, attack the RI with a drive/stalk block.
6. Left Returner
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the left hash.
Assignment - See the ball secured. Block Most Dangerous Man
(MDM) down the right side of the field.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the right side of the field, attack the MDM with a drive/stalk block.
7. Right Returner
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the right hash.
Assignment ~ Make all the calls. Field the ball.
Technique - Make a "May Day" call when the ball is blooped or
squibbed. Field the ball and Attack the coverage. Run to daylight.

64
 CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
May Day Returns - Continued:
May Day Right With Bengal Right - Double R4 Diagram:

D. "MAY DAY RIGHT WITH BENGAL RIGHT - DOUBLE R4

DIAGRAM

L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 K R5 R4 R3 R2 R 1
30

T # G c G # T
40

50

40

LE
30

#
20

/
10
LR

G
ENDZONE
 CINCINNATI BEN GALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
May Day Returns - Continued:
May Day Left With Bengal Right - Double R4 Responsibilities:

E. MAY DAY LEFT WITH BENGAL RIGHT - DOUBLE R4

RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Front Line
May Day does not pertain to you. Your blocking assignments stay
the same reganjless of which return we are running.
2. Left End
Alignment - 30 yard line. Align on the #'s.
Assignment - Block L1.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the left side of the field, attack the L1 with a drive/stalk block.
3. Left Wedge
Alignment - 20 yard line. Align on the left hash.
Assignment - Block L2.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the left side of the field, attack the L2 with a drive/stalk block.
4. Right Wedge

-
Alignment - 20 yard line. Align on the right hash.
Assignment - Block 13.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the left side of the field, attack the 13 with a drive/stalk block.
5. Right End
Alignment - 30 yard line. Align on the #'s.
Assignment - Block L4.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the left side of the field, attack the L4 with a drive/stalk block.
6. Left Returner
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the left hash.
Assignment - See the ball secured. Block Most Dangerous Man
(MDM) down the left side of the field.
Technique - When "May Day" is heard and the ball is kicked down
the left side of the field, attack the MDM with a drive/stalk block.
7. Right Returner
Alignment - 5 yard line. Two yards outside the right hash.
Assigruilent - Make all the calls. Field the ball.
Technique - Make a "May Day" call when the ball is blooped or
squibbed. Field the ball and Attack the coverage. Run to daylight.

66

'"
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
May Day Returns - Continued:
May Day Left With Bengal Right - Double R4 Diagram:

F. MAY DAY LEFT WITH BENGAL RIGHT - DOUBLE R4

DIAGRAM

L1 L2 L3 L4 .LS K RS R4 R3 R2 R 1
30

T # G c G # T
40

50

40

RE
30

# #
20

10 ...
LR - RR

G I -----------=-~--~~--~~~~----~----~
- r-

ENDZONE
-67
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Onside Kickoff Return
Base Onside Kickoff Return General Rules

VIII. ONSIDE KICKOFF RETURN

A. BASE ONSIDE KICKOFF RETURN GENERAL RULES

1. Get in a good 2 point stance, bent at knees. Keep your butt do\VIl
and head up. Keep your hands in a ready position (like fielding a
baseball). KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE BALL.

2. If the ball is kicked to you, secure it with your hands and drop to
the ground wrapping your body around the ball. Get in a fetal
position.
,
3. If the ball is kicked to the man beside you, turn in and "Cover"
your 0\VIl man to ensure ball security.

4. If you are on the 2nd level, be ready to adjust your alignment in the
"Window" if the front line is forced to slide & adjust.

68
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Onside Kickoff Return - Continued:
Onside Kickoff Return Responsibilities:

B. ON SIDE KICKOFF RETURt'l RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Right Tackle .
Alignment - Align 3 yards from the boundary and 11 yards from
the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside kick.
2. Right Guard
Alignment - Align 5 yards outside the right hash and 11 yards from
the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside kick.
3. Center
Alignment - Offset 2 yards from the position of the ball and 11
yards from the ball.
Assignment - Alert for ansi de "Bunt" kick.
4. Left Guard
Alignment - Align 5 yards outside the left hash and 11 yards from
the ball.
Assignment - Alert for ansi de kick.
5. Left Tackle
Alignment - Align 3 yards from the boundary and 11 yards from
the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside kick.
6. Right End
Alignment - Align in the "Window" on the #'s and 16 yards from
the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside kickJpooch. Use a fair catch if
necessary.
7. Left End
Alignment - Align in the "Window on the #' s and 16 yards from
the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside kickJpooch. Use a fair catch if
necessary.
8. Right Wedge
Alignment - Align on the right hash and 16 yards from the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside "Bunt" kick.
9. Left Wedge
Alignment - Align on the left hash and 16 yards from the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside "Bunt" kick.

69
" ..
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Onside Kickoff Return - Continued:
Onside Kickoff Return Responsibilities - Continued:

10. Left Returner

Alignment - Align on the left hash on the 25 yard line.
Assignment - Alert for a "Texas Leaguer."
11. Right Returner
Alignment - Align on the right hash on the 15 yard line.
Assignment - Alert for a deep kick.

70
 CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Onside Kickoff Return - Continued:
Onside Kickoff Return Diagram

C. ONSIDE KICKOFF RETURN DIAGRAM

L1 L2 L3 L4 L5 K R5 R4 R3 R2 R 1
30 t= 3 yds from
I- 5 yds
outside offset kicker
5 yds
outside
-
3 yds from ::.
f- boundarY hash 11
, yards , hash boundary -

t=r
I-
G C G r ::-
I- # #
40 t= LE LW RW RE ::.
t= 16 yds 16 yds 16 yds 16 yds ::.
I- fit window Til wlnaow 'Ill WlllUUW ntWlndOW -
t=f- ::.
, -
50 ::. ::.
::. ::.
t= ::.
~
-
, -
40 f=I- ::.
-
I-
,
-
~ ::.
I::: , ::.
30 I- -
::.
i=
I- 10 -
'- 25 yd line -
f= # left hash # ::.
I- -
20 I- -
::.
i=
f- DD
.
-
r- '1~'ya line
::.
I- right hash -
- - -
10 ::. ::.
-
- ::.
::. ::.
::. --
G . - - ." . ., -A
-- -
ENDZONE
-71
CINCIl'i'NATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Onside Kickoff Return - Continued:
Onside Kickoff Return Vs. An Overload Formation Responsibilities

D. ONSIDE KICKOFF RETURN VS. AN OVERLOAD FORMATION

RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Right Tackle
Alignment - Align 3 yards from the boundary and 11 yards from
the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside kick.
2. Right Guard
Alignment - Align 4 yards outside the right hash and 11 yards from
the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside kick.
3. Center "
Alignment - Offset 4 yards from the position of the ball and 11
yards from the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside "Bunt" kick.
4. Left Guard
Alignment - Align on the left hash and 11 yards from
the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside kick.
S. Left Tackle
Alignment - Align 3 yards from the boundary and 11 yards from
the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside kick.
6. Right End
Alignment - Align in the "Window" on the right #' s and 16 yards
from the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside kick/pooch. Use a fair catch if
necessary.
7. Left End
Alignment - Align in the "Window on the left #' s and 16 yards
from the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside kick/pooch. Use a fair catch if
necessary.
8. Right Wedge
Alignment - Align on the right hash and 16 yards from the ball.
Assignment - Alert for onside "Bunt" kick.
9. Left Wedge
Alignment - Align on the left hash and 16 yards from the ball. DO
NOT LINE UP directly in front of the ball.
Assigl)!Jlent ,- ~lert for Ql).si<!,e "Bunt" kick.

72
CINCINNATI BENGALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Onside Kickoff Return - Continued:
Onside Kickoff Return Responsibilities - Continued:

10, Left Returner

Alignment - Align on the left hash on the 25 yard line.
Assignment - Alert for a "Texas Leaguer."
11. Right Returner
Alignment - Ali.gn on the right hash on the 15 yard line.
Assignment - Alert for a deep kick.

73
 CINCINNATI BEN GALS KICKOFF RETURN - Continued:
Onside Kickoff Return - Continued:
Onside Kickoff Return Vs. An Overload Formation Diagram

E. ONSIDE KICKOFF RETURN VS. AN OVERLOAD FORMATION

DIAGRAM

L1 L2 L3 L4 K L5 R5 R4 R3 R2 R1
30 f--
t:: 3 yds from left 4 yds
' 4 yes
outside 3 yds from:
-
f-- boundarv hash' offset kicker hash boundary -
I-
t::f-- T G C G T :
# , # :
40 t:: LE
"
LW RW RE
-
:
t:: 16 yds 16 yds 16 yds 16 yds -
I- 'firwlndow 'TIt WindOW nt WInOOW !it wlnoow -
t:: :
I-
,
-
50 t::
I-
:
-
t=-, -
l::
I-
:
l- :
40 t::
I-
:
I- , :
f-- -
I-
t:::
:
-
30 ~

t::f--
:
10 :
I- 25 yd line :
t::
l- # left hash # :
20 t:: :
1= ' --
DD
~~'ya line
t:: right hash
:
-
1= -
10 l:: :
I-
I- , :
1= -
-
I-
I- - . ',',
- . :
'G
' , ,

ENDZONE
-74
" .