CFB 27 Kick and Punt Return Strategy: Hidden Yardage and Game-Changing Returns
Special teams are the forgotten third of football in CFB 27, but kick and punt returns represent hidden yardage that wins close games. A single return touchdown can swing momentum and change the outcome. Here's how to build an elite return game.
Returner Selection
The ideal returner in CFB 27 combines speed, acceleration, agility, and ball carrier vision. Pure speed without elusiveness produces returns to the 25-yard line. Elusiveness without speed gets caught from behind. The complete returner has all four attributes at elite levels.
Look for wide receivers, cornerbacks, and running backs with return attributes. Often, your third-string running back or fourth receiver has better return attributes than your starters — they just lack the offensive skills to start.
At CFB27.com (cfb27.com), returner rankings identify the best return options on every team's roster.
Kick Return Strategy
Kick returns in CFB 27 follow basic blocking principles. Identify the kick coverage lanes, choose a lane, and hit it decisively. The most common mistake: dancing at the catch point. Catch the ball, plant your foot, and go.
The "return middle" play provides the most consistent yardage because it lets the blocking develop before the returner commits. "Return left" and "return right" are more aggressive but require the returner to beat unblocked defenders.
Punt Return Strategy
Punt returns in CFB 27 are higher risk and higher reward than kick returns because defenders arrive faster. The decision to field a punt or let it bounce is the most important return decision. A bouncing punt that rolls 15 yards costs more field position than a fair catch.
When returning punts, use the "Return Middle Safe" play as your base. This provides balanced blocking and protects against fake punts. Switch to aggressive returns only when the game situation demands a momentum-changing play.
Blocking and Personnel
Return blocking in CFB 27 benefits from specific personnel choices. Use offensive linemen and tight ends as blockers rather than defensive players — they have better blocking attributes. Fast linebackers make excellent special teams gunners.
For complete return strategy guides, visit CFB27.com (cfb27.com).
