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By Michael V. Hannigan

It's become a common sight. Athens kicker Agustin Rodriguez sprinting downfield after his kickoff, outrunning his own coverage team and dropping a surprised ball carrier inside the 30 yard line.

Welcome to Hornet Special Teams 2024.

"I'm not sure I've ever seen a high school football team at our level play with the effort that ours is playing with," Head Coach Zac Harrell said. "Those guys are screaming down the field."

The numbers tell the story. Zero punt return yards allowed all season. Multiple game-changing plays against Center, including forcing a bad snap on a punt and a bobbled extra point attempt, plus a fumble recovery on another punt.

But it's the intensity that stands out.

Under Special Teams Coordinator Coach Curtis Viola, the unit has transformed from solid to spectacular. Players fly downfield, turning each kick into a big play opportunity.

Rodriguez embodies this aggressive mindset. The kicker-turned-tackler has recorded a tackle in nearly every game this season. His high, hanging punts give the coverage team time to eliminate any return threat.

"You can't overlook his impact on this team," Coach Harrell said. "By the time the ball gets there, our guys are there."

The preparation extends beyond just effort. Athens dedicates practice time each week to specific situations, including two-point conversions. They went 2-for-2 on such plays last week.

"We work two-point plays every week," Coach Harrell said. "We have plays we know will be successful if we execute."

That combination of preparation and intensity has created a special teams unit that does more than just transition between offense and defense. They change games.

What is just routine for some teams has become Athens' secret weapon.

(Photo of Agustin Rodriguez (17) via Athens Athletic Booster Club Facebook page.)\