For the kick to be successful, the holder needs to do more than just place the ball on the ground. Before the snap, the kicker will approach and will mark a certain spot. He will then take his steps backwards to prepare for the kick. When the ball is snapped, the holder is responsible for making sure that the ball is place directly on that spot, the laces of the football are facing outward to produce better contact with the football, and that it is leaning in the direction that the kicker has specified.