Long Snapping

When I was coaching HS Football, I had a letter on my desk from Jimmy Jhnson, the then HC of the Miami Hurricanes. No to imply I was the only one to get it, but every HS in Florida probably received one. The jist of the letter was an urgent need for long snappers and if we had anyone worth developing, it was the easiest way he knew of to get a full ride for the youngster. Having run an empty gun for the last 10 years, I know first hand the absolute necessity for the correct training of your long snappers, as does any coach who employs the spread of any kind. I was asked to interview for the HC spot of a new Arena League Franchise in Florida, and one of the questions asked was,in my opinion, what were the 3 most important positions on the team? My answer was 1- QB 2- Punter 3- Place Kicker and was told that was the same exact answer that Tom Coughlin ( at that time HC of Jacksonville Jaguars) had given when he was asked to help prepare questions for the candidates. I was pleased with that, as in my opinion, the man is an excellent coach. I said, if you had given me 4 choices my 4th would have undoubtedly been LONG SNAPPER. Coach them up and receive big rewards on game night.

J.C.Easton