Surprise punt
In the sport of American football, a “surprise punt” is a tactical maneuver typically carried out in unexpected circumstances. Punts are commonly called on fourth down when a team is too far away from the end zone to attempt a field goal practically and too far away from the first-down marker to try to get a first down. On the other hand, a surprise punt is executed on earlier downs, such as the first, second, or third down.
The objective of a surprise punt is to take the opposition side by surprise and catch them off guard. Because the defense typically does not anticipate a punt on these downs, it is possible that they will not have their punt return unit present on the field. This may result in a more beneficial field position for the team that is punting since the ball will be able to be kicked further into the opponent’s area with a lower probability of being returned.
This strategy is considered unsafe because it effectively allows the offense to advance the ball and score a touchdown or a first down. When properly done, however, it has the potential to substantially move the field position in favor of the side that punts.