West Virginia Football Coach Jeff Koonz Focused on Improving Kickoff Coverage
MORGANTOWN — West Virginia football fans may still be haunted by the last-second Hail Mary pass that cost the Mountaineers a victory against Houston last season, but it was the breakdown in kickoff coverage that led to some of the most challenging moments of the year.
In a recent interview session, inside linebacker coach and special teams coordinator Jeff Koonz highlighted the team’s emphasis on improving kickoff coverage this spring. Koonz acknowledged the struggles the team faced last season, particularly in allowing 463 kickoff return yards in just two games.
Koonz emphasized the importance of technique in special teams play, noting that the team has been working on specific movements and techniques to tighten up their coverage. He explained that the focus this spring is not just on identifying the right personnel but on getting a pool of players competent enough to execute the necessary skills.
The coaching staff is working on teaching better techniques to allow players to play faster and more effectively. Koonz stressed the importance of reacting quickly and making split-second decisions on special teams, noting that overloading players with information can lead to slower reactions on the field.
As the team continues to work on improving kickoff coverage, Koonz remains focused on getting the players up to speed and implementing coverage schemes that will help the team succeed in the upcoming season. With a renewed emphasis on technique and execution, the Mountaineers are hoping to see significant improvements in their special teams play moving forward.