Systems and methods for applying a web material to substrates are disclosed. In one example, there is provided a single first drive that may be coupled to a feed mechanism, a vacuum roll, and a rotary knife such that the respective peripheral speed of the feed mechanism, the vacuum roll, and the rotary knife is adjustable to provide a cut web material length that is in registry with a predetermined location on the substrate. In another example, there is disclosed a method that involves detecting a substrate to which a length of web material can be applied, and initiating introduction of a web material into a feed mechanism only if the substrate is detected. Another example includes introducing a web material traveling at a predetermined speed onto a vacuum roll that is positioned near a rotary knife, and rotating the rotary knife at a peripheral speed that is substantially the same as the predetermined speed of the web material traveling on the vacuum roll.