Dartmouth’s Revamped Special Teams Prove Instrumental in 2024 Success

It was late October in Manhattan when Dartmouth College’s football team demonstrated the power of their special teams, holding Columbia scoreless in the first half and causing a pivotal three-and-out at the start of the third quarter. This success was a testament to the significant changes under the guidance of new special teams coordinator Joe Castellitto.

Columbia’s punter, William Hughes, faced confusion on the field, as Dartmouth’s punt rush unit executed intricate plays. These tactics forced Columbia to adjust its punt protection not once, but three times, culminating in a penalty as the play clock expired, resulting in a five-yard gain for Dartmouth.

Much of Dartmouth’s special teams’ prowess can be attributed to the strategic vision introduced by Joe Castellitto, who joined the team as the special teams coordinator prior to the 2024 season. Castellitto, who previously coached the nickelbacks, was tasked with overseeing the punt rush and field goal block units. His approach centered on maintaining a high-energy environment and keeping opponents guessing. «(It’s) a culture of controlled and smart insanity,» remarked senior linebacker Braden Mullen regarding the new mentality.

Dartmouth’s head coach, Sammy McCorkle, played a key role in this transformation. Renowned for his passion for special teams, McCorkle anticipated the positive impact of Castellitto’s energetic coaching style. He entrusted Castellitto with full control, knowing his approach would reinvigorate the team.

The changes were evident immediately; according to sophomore kicker Matisse Weaver, what used to be mundane meetings were now filled with excitement. Owen Zalc, a standout kicker for Dartmouth, noted, «You brought the energy (because) you’re excited to be on special teams. It’s not just the extra phase … you get the chance to be on special teams here.»

Castellitto’s impact extended to senior punter Davis Golick, who adapted to innovative strategies such as rugby punting. Golick’s career-best performance this season, averaging 41.2 yards per punt, highlighted the effectiveness of these tactics. His efforts were pivotal in Dartmouth’s significant victory over Princeton, where key punts led to scoring opportunities for the team.

For Mullen, the performance of Dartmouth’s special teams has showcased how pivotal the unit can be, turning seemingly minor plays into game-changers. «Even though it’s less plays per game, the ball moves so much on special teams,» Mullen said, emphasizing the strategic focus on positioning the ball to benefit offensive and defensive plays.

The culmination of these efforts has led Dartmouth to eye a potential Ivy League title, contingent on their performance against Brown and a Yale victory over Harvard. As Castellitto prepares his unit for their senior day and regular-season finale, he reflects on the tangible successes achieved this season. «I love when special teams have success, but I love when Dartmouth football has success,» Castellitto said.