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Special teams production often separates good teams from great ones—and that’s exactly where Kansas State is aiming in 2025. With College Football

Playoff expectations, they’ll need all three phases to deliver, especially kickoff return.

That’s where Matt Wells’ clinic becomes essential viewing.

🧠 Teaching the Front Line: "The Hardest Block in Football"

Coach Wells doesn’t sugarcoat it: frontline kickoff return is the hardest block in college football. Players have to drop 30+ yards in space, stay square, and block defenders built to chase, not engage.

Wells breaks down his day-one install progression, using a walkthrough-style drill to teach drop angles, leverage positioning, and retrace technique. No fluff—just a clean, progressive structure you can steal for your own camp install.

“Ball, me, man—that’s how we teach leverage. I’ve got to keep my body between the returner and the threat. Stay square, stay thick, and buy time.”

The drill is taught in layers:

• Phase 1: Drop at an angle with a focus on staying square
• Phase 2: Initiate contact with thumbs-up, elbows-in strike
• Phase 3: Retrace and finish—staying connected through the rep

Wells emphasizes that these drills can be done at 50% speed, during walk-through or acclimation periods—making them perfect for early camp install or pre-practice periods when contact is limited.

“You don’t need pads every time you teach special teams. But you do need a plan.”

If you’re serious about winning field position—and flipping drives before your offense takes a snap—this clinic will show you how to build momentum from the moment the ball is kicked.

Video: Walkthrough & Frontline Drill Progression

#24 Kansas State: 2025 Outlook

The Wildcats return a dynamic QB in Avery Johnson, a deep run game, and a physical defense. But if they’re going to finish stronger than last year, hidden yardage will matter.

Strengths:

• Dual-threat QB + explosive RBs
• Veteran OL with transfer help
• Dominant linebackers
• Elite run defense
• Special teams trending up

Concerns:

• Turnovers + inconsistent passing game
• Need a breakout pass rusher
• Replacing veteran OL leaders

Other Kansas State Clinic:

QB Drills & Training - Matt Wells & Sonny Cumbie

All three phases win championships.

-Coach Grabowski & The Coaches Clinic Team