On this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week, presented by Tully, hosts Logan and John spotlight four outstanding Division III coaches who share how preparation, mindset, and strategy drive consistent performance on and off the field. First, Carnegie Mellon HC Ryan Larsen and OC Andy Helms discuss how practice efficiency, game simulation, and structured communication elevate their program’s offensive execution. They also detail how balancing academics with athletics keeps players focused and disciplined throughout the season. Next, Susquehanna DC Tim Kologrivov breaks down his philosophy of setting high expectations for players every day. He explains how treating each play as its own opportunity builds resilience and accountability — and how strategic thinking can elevate performance beyond physical ability. Finally, UW River Falls HC Matt Walker offers insights into game-day decision-making, exploring the connection between team dynamics, player psychology, and sports science. He reflects on how confidence and versatility influence strategy, and how success often depends on clear communication and trust within the team. Chapters Trends in D3 Football Carnegie Mellon’s Offensive Strategy and Practice Efficiency Balancing Academics and Athletic Preparation Tim Kologrivov on Defensive Mindset and Daily Expectations Developing Strategic Thinking Beyond Physical Talent Matt Walker on Game-Day Strategy and Team Dynamics Sports Science and Player Confidence in Decision Making Adapting Coaching Philosophy for Sustained Success Closing Reflections on Collaboration and Preparation Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski John Snell: @jsnellbwfb Logan Hansen: @LogHanRatings Ryan Larsen: @CoachRyanLarsen Andy Helms: @CoachAndyHelms Tim Kologrivov: @CoachKolo Matt Walker: @CoachWalkerRF Tully: @TullyTracking Presented by Tully — the perfect tool for high school and Division III programs. Tully helps coaches track readiness, performance, and player development so teams can stay strong and confident deep into the season. Learn more at tully.app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of National Coach of the Week, presented by Modern Football, Keith Grabowski sits down with Chris Greisen, head coach at West De Pere High School, to discuss how he’s built a football program defined by culture, accountability, and innovation. Coach Greisen shares how his team lives by the acronym GRIT — Grind, Responsibility, Intensity, and Trust — and how that mindset drives both player development and strong team chemistry. He also breaks down his approach to simplifying complex offensive concepts, teaching players to “flip the switch” with urgency, and promoting a staff culture built on shared ownership and leadership. Chapters Introduction and Coach Recognition Building a Unified Coaching Staff Defining GRIT: The Four Pillars of Culture Simplifying Offense for Player Success Innovative Play Calling and Team Execution Developing Leadership and Accountability Closing Reflections on Growth and Future Goals Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Chris Greisen: @CGQBAcademy Modern Football Technology: @modernFB Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Tune into Kegan Wirtz's Modern Football story mentioned in the podcast here: Kegan Wirtz Story Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of National Coach of the Week presented by Modern Football Technology, Head Coach Marvin Rushing of Cass Tech HS (MI) shares how he develops not just great players, but great people. He outlines a coaching philosophy built on accountability, structure, and trust — showing how empowering both coaches and athletes drives lasting success. Coach Rushing also discusses balancing discipline and freedom in practice, the role of mentorship and leadership training, and why preparing players for life beyond football is his ultimate goal. His insights remind us that true coaching goes beyond the game — it’s about building character, confidence, and community. Chapters Introduction to Coach Marvin Rushing Coaching Philosophy and Game Day Approach Balancing Structure and Flexibility in Practice Life Lessons Beyond Football Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Marvin Rushing: @CoachRush_CTFB Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Champions Series, presented by Signature Championship Rings, we sit down with Wayne Alofipo, HC, Crimson Cliffs HS (UT), Ty Harper, HC, Chautauqua Lake HS (NY), and Dwight Lundeen, HC, Becker HS (MN). The group explores what truly builds a team destined for greatness. The conversation covers everything from personal coaching journeys and philosophies to the vital role of offseason training — especially weightlifting — in athlete development. The coaches highlight the importance of teaching fundamentals, developing collaboration among staff, and adapting to new technologies in sports. More than strategy, they share powerful reflections on coaching their staff as well as their players, mentorship, team culture, and the life lessons that football imparts to young athletes. This episode offers valuable insight into what it takes to lead, inspire, and sustain excellence both on and off the field. Chapters Introduction to the Coaches Coaching Backgrounds and Achievements Offseason Strategies and Team Development Weight Training and Physical Preparation Coaching Philosophy and Staff Development Engaging Players and Building Team Culture Collaborative Coaching and Cultural Development The Importance of Culture in Coaching Embracing Technology in Coaching Creating a Positive Practice Environment Teaching vs. Reteaching: The Importance of Fundamentals The Evolution of Coaching Through Generations Impact Beyond the Game Final Thoughts on Culture and Life Lessons   Learn More about Signature Championship Rings: Signature Championship Rings is a leading designer and supplier of championship rings, serving over 10,000 teams and organizations. With a focus on quality craftsmanship, easy team ordering processes, and affordability, Signature Champions celebrate every champion and their achievements, making their moment last a lifetime. For more information, visit www.signaturechampions.com/podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Joining host Keith Grabowski on today’s podcast is Chicago Bears Running back Coach David Walker. Having been a prolific college running back at Syracuse, Walker went back to his roots for his first college coaching career where he served as the Orange RB coach from 1995-03. After his time at Syracuse, he went on to Pittsburgh where he coached from 2004-10. Walker then coached the running backs for the Indianapolis Colts from 2011-14 and from 2016-18. Walker is considered one of the premiere runningback coaches in football. He joins the podcast today to talk about Coaching RB reads. Show Notes: 1:23 How Walker determined he wanted to Coach 3:15 What Walker believes makes a successful coach 5:43 Walkers platform for helping coaches grow 9:21 Developing the every down back 11:15 Owing the offensive line as a runningback 14:02 The responsibility of the coach to teach an elite runningback 16:34 What Walker teaches in his gap scheme 25:23 Outside zone 29:30 Walker's role in developing the game plan 35:36 Winning Edge 36:53 Connecting with Coach Walker’s CoachTube Course: https://coachtube.com/course/football/developing-the-complete-running-back/13031370 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s Coach and Coordinator Podcast, host Keith Grabowski is joined by John Hart, Head Football Coach at Brownsburg High School in Brownsburg Indiana. Hart has been a head coach for over 30 years in multiple different programs and got his first head coaching job at just 22 years old. Coach has multiple State Championship Titles and is known for his ability to turn programs around. Hart speaks with Grabowski today about the challenges of building a program from the ground up and how he managed those challenges. Show Notes: 1:07 Hart explains the process of becoming an HC at age 22 2:17 Biggest challenges he faced when he became a HC 4:01 How is program actually “outworks” their opponents 5:47 How organization helps maximize the offseason 8:12 Developing athletes in the offseason 9:35 Balancing cutting edge systems with what has worked for you in the past 12:31 Clubs Coach set up in his training program 18:10 What he looks for when figuring out what needs to change when taking over a program 23:44 How to create realistic expectations and execute them 26:45 Importance of being in a strong conference to increase your level of competition 29:45 Scheduling impact 31:26 What Coach will detail in his talk at the IHSFCA 34:38 Winning Edge 35:28 Connect with coach Illinois Coaches Clinic: http://ihsfca.coachesclinic.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Coach and Coordinator Podcast, we continue with our “Game Plan for Your Next Job” series. Host, Keith Grabowski is joined by Brian Rzeppa, author of “You’re Hired: A Guide to Working in Sports.” Rzeppa is an expert in every aspect of the job search process. He joins Grabowski today to talk about the best practices when getting an interview and how to make the most of those opportunities. Show Notes: 1:01 Rzeppa’s background and journey 2:31 How his tools and background relate to football 3:36 Advice for landing an interview 5:42 Determining what value you can bring to an organization 7:31 Value of building connections 9:06 Prepping for an interview 11:10 Finding the right fit for you 13:21 Advice for adapting to an interview and the process during the pandemic 15:34 Most common failures in interviews 17:23 How you approach a job after you’ve accepted it 20:10 Dealing with unexpected Challenges that arise after you’ve accepting a job 22:22 Key takeaways to pass along to coaches 25:04 How he came up with his coaching philosophy template 27:06 Connecting with Rzeppa Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s podcast, host Keith Grabowski is joined by 4-Time State Champion Head Coach, Steve Steele. Despite losing high profile seniors to graduation as well as dealing with the struggles of Covid-19, Steele guided a young Pierre Riggs High School team to a 4th State Championship. Steele joins Grabowski today to talk about how his team overcame adversity on the way to their 4th title. Show Notes: 1:32 How his team dealt with replacing players from previous years especially at the QB position 3:31 Role of analytics in Coach’s program 4:45 Which numbers they look at to determine who should get more touches 6:21 Their process for logging and recording data 8:26 Their approach to keeping the offense rolling despite massive player turnover 10:16 Keeping focus this year with Covid and other adversity 13:05 What they learned and would pass on to coach’s who have young teams after championship seasons 15:11 Their approach going into 2021 season 16:55 What his staff is looking forward to learning during clinic season 19:18 Adding TE’s and FB’s into his scheme despite the “spread craze” 20:50 Winning Edge 22:20 Connect with Coach Related Podcasts: https://soundcloud.com/user-804678956/pierre-tf-riggs-high-school-south-dakota-coach-steve-steele-talks-analytics-and-team-culture https://soundcloud.com/user-804678956/steve-steele-head-coach-riggs-hs-pierre-south-dakota Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s podcast, Host Keith Grabowski is joined by current Maryland Senior Analyst Ron Zook. Coach has been in football for over 40 years including stints in the NFL with the Steelers (96-98), Chiefs (99), Saints (00-01) and Packers (14-18). Zook was also the Big Ten Coach of the Year in 2007 for his work as Head Coach at Illinois. Zook joins Grabowski today to talk about how his experiences across football have helped him in today’s game. Show Notes: 1:26 Coach’s journey 6:07 Coach’s mentors and who he took his biggest lessons from 15:52 How big special teams was to Coach’s career 19:14 Coach’s approach to offense as a ST/Defensive Coordinator background 22:06 What he looked for philosophically in an offensive coordinator 25:02 The importance of analytics 27:38 Winning Edge 28:40 What Coach will talk about at Illinois clinic Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Quickcast, University of Buffalo Offensive Coordinator Andy Kotelnicki shares his insight on defeating the Tite Front. -Using a perimeter play to stress an off the ball contain player -Staying with your inside runs -The need for a multifaceted approach -Game planning and prep or the Tite Front Get Coach Kotelnicki's clinic on Developing a Game Plan: https://coachtube.com/course/football/developing-an-offensive-game-plan-andy-kotelnicki/11825990?ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa Get our FREE digital magazine Coach and Coordinator Monthly: http://coachandcoordinator.com/magazine/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s podcast, Coach Brad Dal Bon joins host Keith Grabowski to talk about the concept of virtual coaching. Dal Bon is the Outside Linebackers Coach at Homer High School in Homer, Alaska but lives and coaches from California. In today’s covid climate, working virtually has become a way of life and Dal Bon has been on the front lines of bringing that concept to coaching football. The first virtual coach in the country, Dal Bon speaks with Grabowski about his experience so far. Show Notes: 1:28 How his virtual coach role came about 5:08 What his head coach thought about it initially 9:04 Coach’s main obstacles 11:56 How it changed his coaching method 17:00 Concept of mental reps 20:14 How they operated with no meeting time and how the Alaska environment has its own set of challenges 22:44 How to build a relationship with kids virtually 28:07 How they operated on gameday 36:09 Practice vs gameday 38:02 Coach’s biggest takeaways from coaching virtually and what he would tell other coaches 43:17 How to get in touch with coach if you have questions about his setup Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s Coach and Coordinator Podcast, host Keith Grabowski is joined by Bryan McKenzie. Bryan was a former NFL player before he started bounding around the coaching ranks at a variety of levels across the country. McKenzie currently works with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes as well as 3D Coaching. He joins the podcast today to talk about the Heart of Coaching and how to develop the heart of the team. Show Notes: 1:04 Coach’s Journey 2:21 Coach’s current role 4:20 3 Dimensions of coaching 6:52 Practical side of the 2nd and 3rd dimensions 9:51 Talking to coaches about fitting in the drill into practice time and finding out how it’ll best work for each program 14:41 Importance of just knowing all your teammates names 16:00 Helping coaches reach the heart of their players 20:45 Coaching the heart of players with teams 24:10 How coaches can get more involved with his program 28:33 What coach will talk about in his upcoming talk 29:15 The Winning Edge Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s podcast, host Keith Grabowski is joined by two members of the Alcorn State University offensive coaching staff. Offensive Coordinator and Offensive Line Coach, Elliott Wratten, and Wide Receivers Coach, Jason Phillips, have helped revolutionize the RPO game by developing their own system. In this podcast, they speak with Grabowski about what makes their system unique, how they teach it and new innovations in the RPO game. Show Notes 1:07 How is their RPO system unique from others 3:05 Personnel grouping and basic understanding for the QB 5:06 How their RPO’s help their run game and how numbers dictate what they run 8:20 Understanding the defense 12:04 Teaching the RPO blocking scheme 17:35 Avoiding too many men downfield situations 20:42 Creating a comfort level for QB decisions 22:30 Training the receiver on the single side 27:48 Training the receivers on the twins side 38:45 Efficient practicing 42:45 Implementing the pistol and how it can benefit the offense 44:55 What kind of in game adjustments they make 46:27 Recommendations for coaches starting this system Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode, host Keith Grabowski is joined by Chris Fore, former High School Football Coach and Athletic Director and currently a Principal at Palmdale Space Academy. Chris is an expert in the field of resumes, cover letters and references. Fore has even authored his own book titled “An Insider’s Guide to Scoring Your Next Coaching Job.” Grabowski and Fore talk about how the environment we are living in today has affected the interview process and how to best tackle those interviews. Show Notes: 1:20 Fore’s transition from AD to Principal 2:45 Operating in today’s culture 4:50 Virtual interviews and how Covid has changed the interview process 9:50 How an initial virtual interview can be more beneficial than in person 11:23 Keys to interviewing on zoom 13:50 Virtual Backgrounds 15:10 Importance of being on time to zoom interviews 16:55 Making sure your tech is up 19:11 Getting your personality to come through via video 21:22 Keeping you attention span 23:12 Sending emails before and after the meeting 28:17 Recording yourself 30:55 Sharing your screen in an interview 33:10 Fore’s resources that are available to you An Insider's Guide To Resume Building https://coachtube.com/course/coach-development/an-insiders-guide-to-resume-building/11845302?ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa 29 Resume Mistakes Every Coach Makes and How To Avoid Them https://coachtube.com/course/coach-development/29-resume-mistakes-every-coach-makes-and-how-to-avoid-them/2014920?ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa Cover Letter Templates https://coachtube.com/course/coach-development/cover-letter-templates/2499194?ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa An Insider’s Guide to Scoring Your Next Job https://coachtube.com/course/coach-development/an-insiders-guide-to-scoring-your-next-coaching-job/2499254?ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa An Insider’s Guide to Writing a Champion’s Cover Letter https://coachtube.com/course/coach-development/an-insiders-guide-to-writing-a-champions-cover-letter/2135131?ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa Resume Templates https://coachtube.com/course/coach-development/resume-templates/2499196?ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa Outside the Lines Coaching Manual https://coachtube.com/course/coach-development/outside-the-lines-coaching-manual/2499287ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa Build a Better Resume and Cover Letter Bundle https://coachtube.com/bundles/build-a-better-resume-cover-letter-bundle?ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Sprint-Based Football presented by Titans Sports, host Tony Holler and Thad Wells dive deep into the philosophy behind sprint-based football and how coaching success is often found in simplicity, balance, and personal growth. Thad shares his evolution from an ambitious young coach to a thoughtful leader shaped by reading, reflection, and hard lessons learned. Together, they discuss the mental and emotional realities of coaching — from navigating identity crises and burnout to building systems that value efficiency over exhaustion. With powerful concepts like "Rock Top vs. Rock Bottom" and “Don’t bring me problems — bring me solutions,” this episode challenges conventional coaching wisdom and advocates for a smarter, more intentional approach to leadership, practice, and life. Chapters Introduction to Coaching Philosophy Thad Wells’ Coaching Journey The Importance of Diverse Reading & Book Recommendations Learning from Mistakes & Building Identity Rock Top vs. Rock Bottom: Embracing the Journey Bringing Solutions, Not Problems Balancing Work, Family & Boundaries The Myth of the Overworked Coach & The Discipline of Less Effective Practice & Courageous Decision-Making Communication, Feedback & Coaching Personas Job Security, Coaching Philosophy & Living with No Regrets Learn More About Our Partner: Titan Sports Founded and based in Texas, the Titan GPS is your key to sprint-based football success. Designed specifically for high school football, Titan tracks the metrics that matter, like top speed, explosive acceleration, and even the powerful 'truck stick'—speed times weight for the ultimate performance insight.  Whether it’s optimizing practice, spotlighting players with 3D highlights, or giving recruiters verified in-game stats, Titan delivers. And with no minimums to get started, Titan walks you through every step. Message them on X @titansensor to learn more. Titan GPS—performance measured, potential unlocked. https://www.titansensor.com/⁠⁠     Connect on X: Tony Holler ⁠⁠@pntrack⁠⁠ Thad Wells @ThadWells Sprint-Based Football Resources on CoachTube: ⁠⁠Sprint-Based Football Bundle⁠⁠ ⁠⁠Feed the Cats Football Bundle⁠⁠ ⁠⁠TFC Sprint-Based Football⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s podcast, host Keith Grabowski is joined by former FBS Offensive Coordinator Jeff Mullen. Most recently at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, Mullen served as the offensive coordinator from 2011-2017. Prior to that, Mullen was offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at West Virginia from 2008-2010. Mullen joins the podcast to talk about how to gameplan Field Zones. Show Notes: 1:46 Different Field Zones 3:09 How the field chart breaks down 7:43 Personnel groups and strategy when you’re in the “black group” 14:39 Situational identity in practice 22:22 Gold Zone Goals 25:27 Brown Zone 28:51 4-Verts and other courses Mullin has on Coach Tube 31:00 Connect with Coach Illinois Coaches Clinic: ihsfca.coachesclinic.com Coach’s Coach Tube Courses Defensive ID: The Triangle https://coachtube.com/course/football/big-o-defensive-i-d-the-triangle-attacking-a-defense/12748136?ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa Situational Identity: Coming Out and Going In https://coachtube.com/course/football/big-o-situational-identity-coming-out-and-going-in/12779046?ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa QB Pre Snap Anticipation. Coaching and Reading 4 Vertical https://coachtube.com/course/football/qb-pre-snap-anticipation-coaching-and-reading-4-verticals/12809076?ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s Coach and Coordinator Podcast, Host Keith Grabowski is joined by Illinois State Head Coach Brock Spack. Coach Spack took over in 2009 for the Redbirds and has amassed a record of 83-50 since then including 2 Missouri Valley Football Conference titles. Prior to taking over as Head Coach, Spack was the defensive coordinator at Purdue from 1997-2008. Spack joins the podcast today to talk about his switch from an even front to an odd front. Show Notes: 1:16 Qualities that drive Spacks program 2:55 When he decided he wanted to Coach 7:11 The Coach who had the most impact on Spack 11:13 Fundamentals that his defenses believe in 20:26 What caused him to switch his defense from and even front to an odd front 27:30 Advantage of going from odd to even based on the down 31:35 How coach feels in the 3-4 going against run heavy teams 34:42 Winning Edge Illinois Clinic Link: IHSFCA.coachesclinic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Coach and Coordinator Podcast welcomes Tim Racki, Head Coach at Nazareth Academy in Illinois, onto the show today. Racki is a 7 time State Champion in Illinois and is known for his ability to turn programs around and take them from failure to success. Racki joins host, Keith Grabowski, to talk about how he raises the bar at programs and the key factors in doing so. Show Notes 1:45 Coach’s ability to turn things around at different programs 3:11 Empowering his assistants 4:13 Trusting your assistant coaches 6:17 Giving up play calling duties 8:44 Making the bigger picture decisions during the game 10:31 Game management 12:26 Knowing who you’re coaching and building relationships 16:43 Kids having different experiences growing up now as opposed to what you had as a coach and how that affects your style 19:40 Getting players and coaches to buy in and be vulnerable 22:42 Having your assistants adopt your philosophy 23:42 Topic coach will cover in his talk at the Illinois High School Football Association Clinic 29:17 Winning Edge 30:40 Connect with Coach Illinois Clinic Link: IHSFCA.coachesclinic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of The Coach and Coordinator Podcast, host Keith Grabowski is joined by Head Football Coach at Eastern Illinois, Adam Cushing. Cushing will be going into his second year as head coach of the Panthers when their season resumes this spring. Prior to Eastern Illinois, Cushing coached at Northwestern since 2004, where he held roles of Tight Ends Coach, Superbacks coach and since 2009, offensive line coach. During his time at Northwestern, the team appeared in 10 bowl games including a win over Utah in the Holiday Bowl in his last game. Coach joins the podcast today to talk about simplifying culture. Show Notes: 1:17 When Cushing decided he wanted to be a coach 4:05 Key takeaways from the Coaches he learned from 7:52 The foundation of Cushings culture 10:14 Special things Coach’s teams do in the community, even during Covid 13:13 Value of a football program in the big picture of the world 14:55 Empowering his assistant coaches 18:31 Simplifying his message to his players 23:21 Doing accountability the right way 26:42 How Coach took time to make his message concise 29:22 How to adjust if players aren’t getting the message 31:36 Overview of what Cushing will be talking about at the IHFCA 33:46 Winning Edge 35:45 Connect with Coach Illinois Clinic Link: IHSFCA.coachesclinic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on Coach and Coordinator, Lou Tepper joins Host Keith Grabowski to talk about his 3-3 scheme and the best characteristics for Linebackers. Tepper has coached numerous linebackers to the Butkus award, which is awarded to the best linebacker in the country. While he’s most well known for his time at Illinois, he also spent time at LSU, Edinboro, IUP, Buffalo and various other schools. Coach is widely regarded as one of the best Linebacker Coaches in the country. Show Notes 2:35 Tepper’s great staff and background at Illinois 4:11 When Tepper made the decision to become a coach 7:06 Coach’s philosophy and the influence they have on kids 11:02 How he landed on the 3-4 defense 16:12 Adjustments to 12 and 21 personnel 19:38 3-3 vs 12 personnel 30:12 Playing vs teams that try and unstack the stack 32:51 Studying of offensive line splits 37:37 Finding people to gather important information for you 39:22 Key attributes Tepper looks for in a Linebacker 53:14 Intangibles Tepper looks for in his LB’s 56:29 Winning Edge Illinois Clinic Link: IHSFCA.coachesclinic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode of Coach and Coordinator, host Keith Grabowski is joined by former NFL Offensive Coordinator Ron Turner. Turner has served as OC of the Chicago Bears two different times as well as being a QB Coach for the Indianapolis Colts and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In 2001, as head coach at Illinois, he was named Big Ten Coach of the Year. Turner joined the show today to share what he learned on his journey. Show Notes :57 What the games meant to Coach 2:12 Watching his sons coaching journey 3:22 Advice he gave his sons on how to deal with the unique challenges this season 4:38 Be Yourself 6:17 What Coach picked up from his mentors 10:15 Narrowing your offseason approach to help fit your beliefs, system and program 13:00 Advice to young coaches on how to be a better teacher of the game 14:34 Importance of run/pass balance in your offense and what creates it 20:05 Balancing what you do vs gameplan 21:30 Intentionally setting up tendencies based off self scout 22:29 Biggest factors in determining whether or not your QB is ready 25:41 What current coaches are struggling with while Coach is watching games 28:09 Winning Edge Illinois Clinic Link: IHSFCA.coachesclinic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today's podcast, Sam Parker, offensive line coach at Ferris State shares a unique way in which he coaches his players to get mental reps. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Leadership Journey - Week 2, Changing the Culture Brian Kight and Keith Grabowski team up for this special Leadership Journey edition of the Coach and Coordinator podcast. This podcast will occur weekly throughout the season, focusing on issues that teams face during the season. Kight discusses changing culture in today’s podcast. 01:20 Alonzo Highsmith’s observation on Hard Knocks 01:58 Patience and discipline in changing a culture 03:00 Culture matters to winning and the quality of the experience 04:10 Culture is not the objective; it must have a function and relevance 05:53 What are you changing the culture for? 06:10 Contribute to the environment you are in 08:29 Urgency plus patience with discipline 09:23 Not urgent enough in pressing people now 10:20 Don’t rush when you see the pay off 11:50 Be urgent in the day and patient over two years 12:58 What does urgency done correctly look like? 13:55 Three things: maniacal commitment, intolerant of anything but the standard, do it with a ton of love 17:00 A unique combination 21:54 Being maniacal and intolerant is not an excuse to mistreat people 25:30 Urgency - don’t let empathy stop you from being urgent 26:27 Discipline is required 28:00 The intent of discipline 29:20 Doing things out of compliance, obedience, or discipline 29:48 Weakness of compliance and limitations of obedience 31:38 What can we learn from the opportunities of game day? 32:20 Culture is measured in years 33:00 Look for language change and behavior change 34:00 Look for micro ways to adjust in-season 34:24 Incremental changes begin to build up 35:46 Make significant major changes in the off season 38:35 The outcomes are going to come the we are good enough to earn them Leadership Journey Playlists: https://soundcloud.com/user-804678956/sets/the-leadership-journey-with https://soundcloud.com/user-804678956/sets/the-leadership-journey-season https://soundcloud.com/user-804678956/sets/the-leadership-journey-with-1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Game Plan with Coach Charlie Coiner and guest John Shoop Guest host Charlie Coiner joins Keith Grabowski this season for “The Game Plan” series. Coiner is a retired coach and the founder of First Down Playbook. Coiner has worked as an assistant coach in the NFL with the Chicago Bears and Buffalo Bills and ash the college level with a number of teams, most notably, Vanderbilt, LSU, Louisville, North Carolina, and Tennessee. John Shoop has coached at every level. Currently the QB coach at AC Reynolds High School, Shoop spent the majority of his career in the NFL as a quarterbacks for the Panthers, and added offensive coordinator duties with the Bears, Buccaneers, and Raiders. He then went on to be the offensive coordinator at the University of North Carolina and then Purdue. 00:44 John Shoop bio 02:09 Change in the focal point of offense 02:47 Continue developing QB mechanics in season 04:20 The value of the QB coach 04:50 Constant feedback is necessary 05:17 Calibration and timing 06:14 Coaching “that guy” and protecting him in practice 07:09 Working with the second quarterback 08:31 Grading players on their proficiency of the playbook 09:37 Continuing to prepare for contingency plans 10:58 John Shoop joins the show 11:39 Challenge of honing the decision while improving mechanics 12:09 The best coaches think of an entire practice as an individual period 12:50 Always coach techniques 13:50 Working waist up and waist down 14:49 Two things upper: arm speed and a tight circle (Tom Brady, Dan Marino and Aaron Rodgers) 17:28 Lower body: wide base and throw with a small step 18:30 Harder to correct the upper body 19:51 Training the lower body 21:14 “The eye of the hurricane” 21:46 Coaching up fundamentals outside of individual 22:17 The value of 7 on 7 in QB development 24:33 Working with the youth league and 7 on 7 coaches 25:27 Offense today and how they stimulate enthusiasm 29:38 Number one goal in the NFL for a quarterback – start 16 games 30:35 Be intentional about durability 31:05 Dick Jauron – cumulative effects of hits 32:32 A play that can work at all three levels – “Razor” 36:59 The upper body – Peyton Manning 38:36 7 on 7 in practice tips to get a more game like feel 42:00 Getting more out of the drill for number two QB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s guest on the Coach and Coordinator podcast is Joe Ashfield, who enters his first season as offensive line coach at Rice University. Prior to Rice, Ashfield spent five seasons as an offensive assistant at Stanford, where he prepared opponent scouting reports and statistical analysis. Other coaching stops include New Mexico Military Institute, Loras College and Delta State. He also coached the North Harbour Pride in New Zealand and the New Zealand National Team. After playing college football at Saint John’s University, where he graduated in 2000, Ashfield played professionally as a quarterback in the German Football League On today’s show, Ashfield and host Keith Grabowski talk about his experience playing and coaching overseas and developing as an offensive line coach. Show Notes 2:15 Going from football player to coach 7:18 Practice style of his college head coach, John Gagliardi 10:52 Playing football abroad 12:33 Putting players in the best situations to succeed 14:34 Coaching football overseas 17:14 Developing schemes later in coaching career 18:24 Transition from playing quarterback to coaching offensive line 21:49 Building the offensive line at Rice 25:43 Giving control to the players 29:02 Players modifying the scheme to their advantage 32:32 Implementing successful and safe technique 35:09 Using strongest part of the body in blocking 38:21 Best drill to unlock the player’s hips into the block 40:47 Ashfield’s go-to play to call 42:19 Why he uses the wing on the gap scheme 43:45 The Winning Edge Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Art of Practice presented by GoRout, Keith Grabowski sits down with Rob Stover, defensive coordinator at Sycamore HS (IL), to unpack the strategic art of seven-on-seven football practice. They explore how communication serves as the foundation of defensive cohesion, and how technologies like Go Route are transforming efficiency on the field. Coach Stover shares actionable insights on structuring purposeful walkthroughs, adjusting practice as the season unfolds, and preparing players to respond quickly to opponent tempo. The conversation highlights the importance of preparation, delegation, and well-designed drills to create a competitive and organized practice environment. Chapters Using Go Route to Make Periods More Productive Maximizing Communication in Seven on Seven Integrating Technology for Efficiency Effective Walkthroughs and Practice Planning Adjusting Practice as the Season Progresses Understanding Opponent Tempo and Communication Simplifying Calls for Fast Play Advice on Implementing GoRoute Technology Learn More About Our Partner - GoRout GoRout helps coaches eliminate huddles, increase reps, and maximize efficiency with their game-changing technology. Sign up using code “coordinator” for up to 50% off setup fees at gorout.com/podcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode is a Quickcast with Matt Rhule special thanks to Texas High School Coaches Association Convention and CoachTube. This is from prior to the 2019. The entire talk which includes a section on leadership and branding as well as Coach Rhule’s clinic on Winning in the Red zone are available on CoachTube. A link is in the shownotes. Shownotes can be found in your app in the episode description or on our new home for the podcast, coachandcoordinator.com -What is your job as the head coach -The first question to ask -Why are you here? -Coach Rhule’s why -Mission statement - why and how Follow me on twitter @coachkgrabowski and check out our Instagram for football coaches footballcoaching_com Link to Matt Rhule - Building the Brand (and Winning in the Red Zone): https://coachtube.com/course/football/matt-rhule-building-the-brand/1066764?ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today's episode is from our Quickcast series, a short podcast on a single topic. Today we focus on success in the red zone with John Pennington. John Pennington enters his fourth year as the Head Coach at West Virginia State University in 2020. Pennington was named head coach in the Spring of 2017 and promptly proceeded to lead the program to its first winning season in a decade. In his first season as head coach, the Yellow Jackets hit statistical milestones that were unheard of prior to his arrival. They earned a No. 1 ranking in all of NCAA Division II in red zone offense by scoring 47 times out of 48 attempts. Additionally, his team ranked first in the Mountain East Conference (MEC) in completion percentage, third down conversions, and passing yards per game. They placed second in the MEC in total offense, first downs, and scoring per game. 6 Keys: 1. Everyone understands the plan 2. Goal 5 points avg. per Red Zone attempt 3. Game plan menu 4. Practice Plan 5. Visualize the calls 6. Go with your gut Check out the first clinic of the offseason: ihsfca.coachesclinic.com Twitter: @CoachKGrabowski John Pennington RPO Course https://coachtube.com/course/football/john-pennington-rpo-offense/11751906?ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Kappas is the new defensive coordinator at Austin Peay. He spent eight years in two stints on the Mount Union coaching staff, five as defensive coordinator. In the five years as a defensive coordinator, his unit hwas in the top 10 in at least three national defensive categories in each season. In 2015, Kappas earned National Coordinator of the Year honors as his defense topped all of college football allowing 197.6 yards per game. Mount Union also led the nation that year in third down defense (21.4-percent), rushing defense (55.2 yds/game), scoring defense (9.3 ppg), sacks (4.53 per game) helping leading the team to its 12th national championship. He spent two years as the Raiders offensive coordinator and led a group that was among nation's top scoring teams. On this Coach and Coordinator Quickcast, Kappas discusses creating big plays and turnovers on defense. -Defensive philosophy -Creating an emphasis on turnovers -Strip tackle technique and practice -Game planning and looking for opportunities for big plays Check out all of our episodes on coachandcoordinator.com Don't miss the first big clinic of the off season December 8-12 Register and check-out the line-up at ihsfca.coachesclinic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s podcast, host Keith Grabowski continues our “Training Camp” series with Craig Stutzmann, offensive coordinator at Washington State. Coach Stutzmann was formerly the passing game coordinator at Hawaii and helped lead the Rainbow Warriors to 310.3 pass yards per game in 2018, good enough for ninth in the nation. During his time at Emory & Henry College (Va.) as offensive coordinator, his offense was dubbed “Spread-and-Shred” for their unique style of play. Stutzmann joins the podcast today to talk about his offense as well as how he implements it in the QB room during camp. Show Notes: 2:44 Coach’s journey 7:18 Transition from high school to GA to assistant 12:58 How different systems shaped his Run and Shoot offense 15:40 Evolution of the passing game both offensively and defensively 18:58 First QB meeting during camp 25:15 Communicating with players during camp both for positives and negatives 29:36 Developing fundamentals early in camp and during the season 37:35 Teaching decision making in the classroom 42:49 Evaluation process 47:55 Winning edge Connect with Coach: @CoachStutzman Related Content: User-804678956 – Training-camp-up-tempo-offensive-line-install-with-cody-kennedy-offensive-line-coach-tulane User-804678956 – Training-camp-developing-tight-ends-with-nick-sheridan-tight-ends-coach-indiana-university User-804678956 – Training-camp-qb-installation-with-will-hall-offensive-coordinator-tulane Link For Illinois Clinic: ihsfca.coachesclinic.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arizona State Offensive Coordinator Rob Likens joins Keith Grabowski to discuss the job of an offensive coordinator. Grabowski and Likens discuss highlights of his 3 hour presentation at Tony Franklin's OC Magic. Recorded at OC Magic in San Marcos, TX 5/11/19. Show Notes: 00:00 - Intro 00:32 - What the game means to you 03:11 - Benefits of the event 04:59 - Communication 07:18 - Working and communicating with assistant coaches (Breaking walls) 09:27 - Communicating with your quarterback 10:59 - Setting expectations 12:28 - Simplicity under pressure 14:27 - Championship effort 15:24 - Human element 17:10 - Simplistic advantageous system 18:44 - Analytics (Attack 3rd Down) 20:18 - Putting together a game-plan (Information sheets) 21:44 - Game week 25:21 - Winning Edge 26:28 - Goodbyes/Outro Link For Illinois Clinic: https://ihsfca.coachesclinic.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today’s episode is presented by CoachTube with special thanks to Texas High School Coaches Association. From our Quickcast Series, our guest is Ed Orgeron, Head Coach, LSU sharing his insight on coaching style. What is a Quickcast? You already know the Coach and Coordinator Podcast for interviews that touch the many areas of the skillset and mindset that makes a successful coach. In our Quickcast we focus on a coach’s most powerful insight on a single topic. We pull out the most useful, interesting and helpful ideas into an episode you can consume in 15 minutes or less. It’s our uptempo version of the podcast. With a library of over 1,000 episodes, we have plenty of these nuggets to share with you to help improve your own mindset and skill set as a coach. Enjoy! Shownotes: How did Ed Orgeron make the move to being the head coach of the LSU Tigers having never been a coordinator? He takes about exactly that today and shares his insight on what it takes to be a head coach. 1:30 Coaching style - be yourself 2:57 Having a positive attitude towards work 3:30 Become an expert at your position 4:17 Treatment of your players 7:17 Be highly organized as a coach 8:05 Have a teaching progression 8:29 Organizing drills 13:04 Importance of having a drill list Get this entire presentation from Coach Orgeron on CoachTube. https://bit.ly/2TKPe30 Our new home for the podcast: coachandcoordinator.com Twitter: @CoachKGrabowski Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the Archives On today’s podcast, host Keith Grabowski welcomes Nick Sheridan, tight ends coach at Indiana University, to the latest episode of our “Training Camp” series. Coach Sheridan also coached the Hoosier quarterbacks in 2017 and 2018. In 2017, Sheridan was named one of the nations Top 30 coaches under 30 years of age by 247Sports.com. Prior to Indiana, Sheridan worked as an offensive grad assistant at the University of Tennessee from 2014-16. Sheridan joins the podcast today to talk about how he advances the play of the tight end position throughout training camp. Show Notes: 1:47 Coach’s journey 3:35 How Coach’s exposure to different coaches growing up and playing shaped him 5:40 Learning in two different systems 8:57 Different aspects of coaching tight ends 11:32 Installation 16:28 Positional walk throughs 19:02 Pillars of his TE group 22:27 Highlighting the positives during camp 25:12 Individual period time distribution 30:40 Using as many different players as possible 34:05 Evaluation process 39:53 Winning edge Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the Archives: This week in the Game Plan series, Keith Grabowski and co-host Charlie Coiner talk with coach Ron Case about press-man coverage. Coach Case emphasizes using man coverage to get off the field on 3rd down and how it can help stop the Run Pass Option (RPO). Coach Case breaks down how he learned and taught the technique and what made it successful. He closes out telling the hosts what got him into coaching football. Show Notes: 01:30 Ron Case bio 03:20 Coach Case’s start with press man 05:00 Robert Davis at Vanderbilt 06:15 Learning from players 07:00 Teaching press man at LSU 09:30 Moving it to North Carolina 10:20 Difference in technique 12:10 Being on the same page 12:30 Defending in different eras 14:00 Matchups and playing off 15:40 Keeping the technique refined 16:25 Difficulty coaching up different coverage 17:20 Recruit the skill and coach it up 19:30 How good are you up front? 21:05 Press man on 3rd down to get off the field 21:40 Coach Case’s technique breakdown 23:05 Stab technique cover 1 or 0 24:25 Disrupt the timing 25:30 Working the hips 26:40 Off the ball coach patience 28:30 Finding the ball 31:22 Coaching technique in 1-on-1 33:40 Man defending RPO 35:05 Western Alamance High School 36:30 How Coach Case got into football 38:30 Playing in the Marine Corp 39:40 Coaching in the Marine Corp 41:35 Carson Newman College 45:30 Giving the defensive line credit 47:40 Football changing Coach Case’s life 48:30 How Case learned it 49:00 Keith’s similar learning experience 50:10 Coach Case’s military mixing with football Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the Archives: Today’s guest on the Coordinator podcast is John Loose, safeties coach at Army. Loose has been coaching for 31 years and is in his 13th season at Army. Last season, Loose helped guide the Army secondary to finish 14th in the nation against the pass. Coach Loose, with the help of his wife, started the Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation, which provides financial support for brain tumor research and cancer services. Lauren’s First and Goal has raised more than $2 million toward its mission and holds a one-day football camp with over 1,500 participants and over 300 college coaches from around the country. Show Notes 1:34 Loose’s coaching background 2:45 Lessons Loose has learned throughout his career 8:02 Building relationships with players 10:51 Defending the option 13:41 Adjustments made in practice to stop the pass 15:10 What coach is looking for in a player 18:28 Defending the RPO 22:06 Loose’s favorite RPO from the offensive perspective 25:03 Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation 33:28 Making a difference through Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation John Loose - Tackling and Defensive Fundamentals course on CoachTube https://bit.ly/3jCjO9i Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation: www.laurensfirstandgoal.org/ Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation Twitter: @LFGFootballCamp Lauren’s First and Goal Highlights: www.youtube.com/watch?v=E4UuQ6hBR…&feature=youtu.be Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the sport’s most widely respected running backs coaches, Tim Horton, sits down with Keith in this week’s episode of the Coach and Coordinator podcast. Horton, who currently serves as running backs coach at Auburn, has coached a host of future NFL players, including Darren McFadden, Felix Jones, Peyton Hillis and Knile Davis. He gives Keith the inside scoop on what he focuses on when instructing running backs, why so many talented running backs are deficient in pass protection and why coaches need to take their time in evaluating players. SHOW NOTES 1:09 Coaching in his blood 2:16 Lessons learned as a young coach 3:46 Building relationships with players 5:51 Keys to coaching the running back position 7:46 How Horton makes the most of his individual sessions with running backs 11:16 Coaching points for winning the block in pass protection 13:28 Approach to coaching running backs in the classroom setting and the value of active learning 15:06 Making the grind fun for players 16:50 Favorite run play 18:05 Teaching points for RBs in Power play 21:32 Why good outfielders make good punt returners 23:47 Key traits Horton looks for on recruiting trail 26:05 Why coaches should not pass judgment too quickly on players 27:15 Best coaching advice received 27:51 Book recommendation 29:59 Learning RPO 31:01 Favorite piece of coaching technology 33:06 Concerns for future of the game 34:39 Advice to a young coach 36:10 Two-minute drill 37:55 The winning edge Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Art of Practice presented by GoRout, Keith Grabowski is joined by Dean Pauley, Defensive Assistant at the College of DuPage, for a deep dive into coaching strategies that drive practice efficiency—especially when working with a small staff. They explore how flexibility, clear communication, and collaborative planning are essential to building a high-performing football program. Dean shares practical insights on optimizing practice planning, using technology to increase reps, and developing drills with clear objectives. The conversation also highlights the importance of situational football, game-like preparation, and empowering players—particularly defensive backs—to take ownership of their development and communication. Whether you're refining your coaching methods or leading a team with limited resources, this discussion offers valuable tools to enhance player performance and maximize every minute on the field.   Chapters Maximizing Practice with a Small Coaching Staff Setting Expectations for Practice Optimizing Practice Time and Drills Learning from Other Programs Collaborative Practice Planning Group Work and Efficiency Promoting Player Ownership and Communication Training Communication in Defensive Backs Utilizing Technology for Efficiency Practicing Situational Football About Our Partner - GoRout GoRout helps coaches eliminate huddles, increase reps, and maximize efficiency with their game-changing technology. Sign up using code “coordinator” for up to 50% off setup fees at gorout.com/podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What is a Quickcast? You already know the Coach and Coordinator Podcast for interviews that touch the many areas of the skillset and mindset that makes a successful coach. In our quickcast we focus on a coach’s most powerful insight on a single topic. We pull out the most useful, interesting and helpful ideas into an episode you can consume in 15 minutes or less. It’s our uptempo version of the podcast. With a library of over 1,000 episodes, we have plenty of these nuggets to share with you to help improve your own mindset and skill set as a coach. Enjoy! Jason Mangone Head Coach of D3 Suny Brockport. He was named the 2017 AFCA D-III Coach of the Year after guiding the Golden Eagles to a 13-1 record, the best in school history, and a berth in the national semifinals. The Golden Eagles are consistently at the top of D3 offensive rankings. Today Mangone shares his insight on Simplicity. Simplicity - Having less is more powerful over time and allows you to coach better and your players to execute more effectively. Coach Mangone shares how selecting an offensive menu is much like managing what’s in your closet. An enemy of simplicity is overage…having calls in the game plan that you never actually use. Coach Mangone explains the importance of maximizing your repetitions in practice by simplifying your game plan. The result is player confidence. Mangone shares his approach to adding wrinkles and how to keep it the same for the guys upfront. He discusses his rule on when final additions can be made into the game plan so that they can have everything ready for game day. We all get intrigued by the success of others offense, The reality of putting new plays into the offense and actually getting the play the confidence that you need as the play caller can be at odds. Coach Mangone explains the danger in doing this and how it affects practice. How new plays affect the practice plan and a way to add wrinkles into what you already do rather than re-creating the wheel. Simplicity allows you to better find the answers and adjustments you need to be able to stay ahead of the defense. Mangone points out that it’s the difference of being a guy who calls plays and coordinator. Thanks to Coach Mangone for sharing his thoughts on why keeping it simple can help your offense have success and for you to be most effective as an offensive coordinator. Check out our show notes for links to resources that will help you develop as a coach and coordinator at coachandcoordinator.com and follow me on twitter @CoachKGrabowski Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the Archives: Let them Score? Coaching analytics and in-game strategy. Rob Ash - Championship Analytics, Inc. In this strange 2020 season, the things we talk about but usually don’t happen are happening. Case in point - Penn State vs. Indiana. It’s the end of the game and up 1 all Penn State has to do is get a first down and run out the clock. It’s actually not to their advantage to score. The only thing Indiana can do to have a chance is to let them score. The intricacies involved in coaching this up on either side of it come down to preparation. Former college head coach Rob Ash and I discussed this on the Coach and Coordinator Podcast. Simply stated, it’s something that needs to be practiced and there should be a mechanism in both the defense to let the offense score, and for the offense to know not to score. It could be a code word for the offense that gets tagged into the call. The defense obviously has to have a call for this as well, and the best coaches know all of it must be practiced. Rule of thumb: Never do something in a game that hasn’t been practiced! Penn State mistakenly scored and it came down to a controversial two-point play in overtime to end it and give the Hoosier the upset. Today's Coach and Coordinator podcast guest is Rob Ash, director of coaching development at Championship Analytics, Inc., which helps coaches strategize through analytics. Ash spent 36 years as a head coach at the FCS and NCAA Division III levels before working as an offensive analyst at Arkansas. His coaching stops included Montana State (2007-15), Drake (1989-2006) and Juniata College (1980-88). In the podcast, Ash and host Keith Grabowski discuss his coaching career and the ever-evolving world of football analytics. Show Notes 1:38 What got Ash into coaching 3:26 Learning to be a head coach at a young age 5:01 Creating a successful program at Drake 8:21 Building culture at the FCS level 10:52 Changes in recruiting and student-athlete development 13:00 Transition from head coach to offensive analyst 15:57 Future of analytics in football 21:20 Using Championship Analytics in an up-tempo offense 23:36 Analytics as part of the pre-game game plan 29:16 Using analytics on the defensive side of the ball 34:50 Practicing in-game situations within analytics coaching 39:25 The ever-changing two-point chart 42:25 Small college and high school use for CAI 43:51 Recommendations of how high school coaches can use basic analytics Free Course The Analytics of Two-Point Conversions (You Might Be Surprised) https://coachtube.com/course/football/the-analytics-of-two-point-conversions-you-might-be-surprised/11992909?ambassador=325306f59bb543b6883ff4baa Unstoppable Two-Point Plays by Kevin Kelley https://coachtube.com/course/football/unstoppable-coach-kelleys-2pt-plays/11357177 Two-Point Play Strategy by Tim Delaney https://coachtube.com/course/football/two-point-plays-tim-delaney/12364939?ambassador=1560d03a565346bda70428fa4 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the Archives: Today’s guest on the Coach and Coordinator podcast is Matt Drinkall, head coach at Kansas Wesleyan University, an NAIA school in Salina, Kansas. Drinkall was selected to be a participant in the 2018 American Football Coaches Association 35 under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute. This program is designed to identify and develop premier, future leaders in the football coaching profession. On today’s episode, Drinkall talks about tempo and the evolution of the run game. Show Notes 2:30 Evolution of the run game 6:33 Shifting and motioning 13:58 Importance of changing personnel 18:25 Keeping the tempo up 19:53 Game planning tempo 20:32 Changes Drinkall has made to his practice routine 28:41 Looking at data from practice 30:12 Motioning from the backfield Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the Archives- Today’s Coach and Coordinator podcast features University of Toledo head coach Jason Candle. Candle enters his third full season as the Rockets’ coach, and he’s been with the program since 2009. He started as a receivers coach in his first years at Toledo, moving to offensive coordinator and associate head coach during the 2014-15 seasons. Last year, Candle led the Rockets to their first Mid-American Conference Championship in 13 years with an 11-3 record. Prior to Toledo, Candle coached at his alma mater Mount Union, an NCAA Division III football power in Alliance, Ohio. Candle worked with the receivers from 2002-06, then was the offensive coordinator from 2007-08. Mount Union won three national championships while Candle was on the staff and accumulated an 83-4 record over the six years Candle was there. Candle was able to play for and coach alongside head coach Larry Kehres, an 11-time national champion-winning coach at Mount Union. Throughout his coaching career, Candle has coached several current NFL players, including wide receivers Pierre Garcon and Cecil Shorts at Mount Union, along with Kansas City running back Kareem Hunt while at Toledo. In the podcast, Candle talks with host Keith Grabowski about his experience at Mount Union with Coach Kehres, as well as Candle’s coaching philosophy and style. Show Notes 1:13 Transition from being a player to a coach at the same school 3:59 Influence from Coach Kehres into Candle’s philosophy 6:31 Impact of former Toledo coach Matt Campbell from playing to coaching 8:27 Creating the culture of the Toledo coaching staff 10:19 Expectations of Candle’s staff at Toledo 12:14 Keys to having success with recruiting 14:51 Tips to promoting football at the high school level 17:42 How Candle built a culture leading to a MAC championship 20:50 What differentiates Candle’s coaching style from others. 23:18 Developing a dynamic offense at Toledo 25:53 Balancing a coach’s scheme and the players 27:10 Focusing on the student-athletes 27:51 The Winning Edge Related Links: https://soundcloud.com/user-804678956/growth-as-a-coach-building-a-program-utilizing-talent-jason-candle-head-coach-u-of-toledo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the Archives- Game Plan week 3: Bobby April – Special Teams Keith and guest host former NFL coach Charlie Coiner had the opportunity to interview Coach Bobby April. April is known in the coaching world as a special teams guru, coaching on all levels from NFL, college and high school. The coaches talk about the importance of special teams and how it impacts the game. April harped on the importance of communication for the coaches and for everyone to be moving in the same direction and how that process should be involved heavily throughout the week, so it can translate to the game. Coach April emphasized how important a head coach’s involvement with special teams can be for a team on all levels. 00:40 Bobby April intro 03:45 Bobby April bio 06:35 Gameday organization 07:30 Giving guys responsibility 09:00 Working the dots system 11:42 Special teams transition 14:50 Everybody moving in the same direction 17:22 Head coach special teams relationship 21:25 Being on the same ship 22:30 Communication 27:50 Playing starters on special teams 28:40 Coach April’s formula 30:30 Discussing with the head coach 31:35 Coming back to communication 34:15 Head Coach and special teams synonymous 35:20 Practicing special teams transition 37:30 Providing resources Related Content: https://soundcloud.com/user-804678956/the-game-plan-bobby-april-special-teams-guru Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From The Archives: The guest on today’s Coach and Coordinator podcast is Middle Tennessee State University offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Tony Franklin. Franklin is in his third season with the Blue Raiders and has led their offense to become one of the best in the nation. In 2016, Middle Tennessee was ranked eighth in FBS in total offense and set single-season records for yards per game, points scored, touchdowns and several other statistical categories. Franklin’s coaching career has taken him across the country, including stops at colleges such as California, Louisiana Tech, Auburn, Troy and Kentucky. At every coaching stop, he has created a high-powered offense and mostly specialized with mentoring the team’s quarterbacks. Notable players who played under Franklin were quarterbacks Tim Couch at UK and Jared Goff at Cal, both being No.1 overall picks in the NFL Draft. Along with coaching, Franklin has run a seminar for teaching football coaches named “The Tony Franklin System.” He has toured across the nation delivering seminars and providing written works of his teachings. Several college and high school coaches use the practices taught in Franklin’s seminars in their everyday coaching. In the podcast, Franklin and host Keith Grabowski discuss The Tony Franklin System, how that has affected his coaching style today, and what he brings to coaching Middle Tennessee. Show Notes 1:15 Upcoming season for Middle Tennessee 2:30 Adapting formation and trying to not lose the game 6:12 Balancing offense, defense and special teams at a program 9:10 Creating and changing schemes based on personnel 13:20 The history of the Tony Franklin System 18:15 Importance of designing a solid practice, the Perfect Drill 22:58 Tips in building an effective practice, Manning-Goff Feet 29:25 Instructing coaches to pay attention to detail within practice 32:03 Using Peyton Manning’s fundamentals and footwork 37:05 Teaching quarterbacks the RPO 43:42 Routes on air, getting the most out of receiver drills 45:44 The Winning Edge Related Podcasts: https://soundcloud.com/user-804678956/teaching-the-details-perfect-practice-rpo-and-more-tony-franklin-oc-middle-tennessee https://soundcloud.com/user-804678956/developing-as-an-offensive-coordinator-w-oc-magic-tony-franklin Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the Archives: Today’s Coach and Coordinator podcast begins a new series called “Home Team.” This series features guest host Joel Nellis, head coach at Brookfield Central High School (Wisconsin). He was on the Coach and Coordinator podcast as a guest July 2. Jim Leonhard is in his third season on the coaching staff at Wisconsin. He started by coaching the defensive backs his first season, then moved to defensive coordinator in his second season on the staff. As a defensive coordinator in 2017, Leonhard was a finalist for the Broyles Award for the nation’s top assistant. Before coaching, Leonhard spent 10 seasons in the NFL as a player with the Buffalo Bills, Baltimore Ravens, New York Jets, Denver Broncos, New Orleans Saints and Cleveland Browns. Prior to playing professionally, Leonhard was an all-American defensive back at Wisconsin. On today’s podcast, Leonhard talks about how he integrates his family with his work and the importance of time management with balancing football and home life. Show Notes 1:10 Leonhard on how he met his wife 2:04 How his wife helps make work-life balance easier 3:23 What makes his sons unique 5:06 Transitioning from playing to coaching with his family 7:06 Early career decisions made with his wife 8:54 Making time for family while in season 10:36 Having a kid-friendly environment at work 12:39 Diving into coaching without serving as a graduate assistant first 14:19 Using coaches’ knowledge and teaching skills 16:24 Game planning without looking too far ahead 18:57 Preparing the best ways to win the game 21:47 Coaching players to understanding and executing 24:33 Getting players to buy in to the game plan 27:11 Learning from other programs while focusing inward 30:19 Being fully prepared and still losing the game 34:18 Knowing when to sacrifice time and when not to 36:13 Making an importance on seeing the big picture 37:54 His kids putting things in perspective after a loss 39:32 Legacy for his family through coaching Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the Archives: RPO innovator Joe Osovet is the guest on this episode of the Coach and Coordinator podcast. The head coach at ASA College in Brooklyn, New York, Osovet sits down with Keith Grabowski to discuss their practice philosophy and success in the red zone. Show notes 1:08 Osovet’s process for putting together the game plan 5:10 Attacking third down 6:25 Breaking down the practice week 9:18 Finding success in the red zone 10:56 Adjusting to spread offense 12:22 Adding a wrinkle late in the season 14:30 The winning edge Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the Archives: Today’s guest on this “NCAA Leaders” edition of the Coach and Coordinator podcast is Craig Yeast, the offensive coordinator at Franklin (Indiana) College. In the 2017 season, with the help of Coach Yeast, Franklin College led the nation in passing offense and total offense. On today’s episode, Coach Yeast and Keith Grabowski talk about offensive schemes and how Franklin College prepares for game day. Show Notes 1:10 Coach Yeast reflects on the 2017 season 2:15 What the coaching staff looks at prior to game day 4:05 How to determine which matchups to exploit 6:10 Developing a game plan 8:10 Coach Yeast talks about different packages they use 13:10 How Franklin College’s quarterbacks prepare for game day 17:10 Coach Yeast talks about their practice organization and drills 22:50 Coach’s best concept 26:45 How much RPO plays a part in the offense 27:45 RPO does not change play calling mentality 30:55 Coach Yeast looks ahead to the 2018 season Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kevin Kelley is the head football coach and athletic director at Pulaski Academy in Little Rock, Ark. Coach Kelley is best known as the first coach to adopt a game strategy free of punting. Since taking the head coaching position in 2003, Kelley has led the Bruins to an unprecedented seven state championships. Coach Kelley joined the podcast today to share some of his thoughts on culture as well as how analytics help drive his coaching strategy. Show Notes: 1:07 Rationale for more than just two guys touching the football on scoring plays 3:12 How defenses react 4:40 How analytics help his defense 6:18 What stats Coach focuses on more than other teams 9:25 Why they don’t use goal boards 11:22 How his staff evaluates the players 14:04 The culture of competition 17:12 Making every kid important 20:43 Overview of Coach’s five unstoppable plays 23:44 Coach’s work with Rick Jones 25:30 Questions from Coach’s video 26:55 Coach’s contact Info http://coachandcoordinator.com/ Connect with Coach: Twitter: @CoachKelley1 @CoachKGrabowski Related Content: https://soundcloud.com/user-804678956/outside-the-box-with-kevin-kelley-88-success-rate-penalties-self-scout-traveling https://soundcloud.com/user-804678956/rick-jones-greenwood-arkansas-high-school-coach?in=user-804678956/sets/state-champion-coaches https://soundcloud.com/user-804678956/kevin-kelley-final?in=user-804678956/sets/state-champion-coaches https://soundcloud.com/user-804678956/lessons-from-2018-rick-jones-greenwood-high-school-ak https://soundcloud.com/user-804678956/continuing-learning-growth-at-the-fbs-level-rick-jones-senior-assistant-at-the-univ-of-missouri Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Culture OS presented by Story of the Season, Mount Carmel (IL) head coach Jordan Lynch shares the foundational principles behind the sustained success of their football program. Drawing on his experience as both a player and coach, Lynch discusses the vital roles of accountability, leadership, and culture-building in shaping young athletes. He emphasizes the importance of rigorous off-season training, mental toughness, and the privilege of managing pressure at a high level. Beyond the field, he reflects on the challenges of balancing coaching with family life and the necessity of continuous learning and adaptability in coaching strategies. Through honest reflection, Lynch highlights the importance of mentorship, trust, and daily growth, providing a compelling insight into how a strong team culture, effective communication, and dependable leadership foster long-term success. Chapters Introduction to Jordan Lynch Transitioning from Player to Coach Leadership and Coaching Philosophy Mission and Vision at Mount Carmel Building a Strong Foundation Aligning Diverse Backgrounds Coaching Standards and Expectations Building a Culture of Accountability The Foundation of Toughness Managing Success and Pressure Maintaining Mental Endurance The Balance of Coaching and Family Sustaining Success in a Competitive Environment Get the highlights of Season 1 of CultureOS in our free ebook, and learn more about our partner Story of the Season and what they do to help bring your culture to life for your entire community. Get it here: ⁠⁠https://coachandcoordinatornetwork.com/cultureos Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former U.S. Navy Commander Mike Abrashoff attracted worldwide attention for his success in turnng around a struggling ship, the USS Benfold, which became the subject of his first book It's Your Ship. Since that instant leadership classic hit the bestseller lists he's been a fixture on the lecture circuit, spreading the empowering message that any organization can be turned around with hard work and a compassionate firm leader. Abrashoff graduated from the US. Naval Academy and served as an officer in the U.S. Navy for nearly twenty years. He was a military assistant to former secretary of defense William J. Perry. In this interview Abrashoff translates the success he had on the Benfold to how coaches can use his strategies and ideas to create excellence in their programs. This is a simple yet powerful approach to leadership. In the interview, Abrashoff said that Bill Belichick has mentioned It's Your Ship among his favorite books. Mike also points out how Western Michigan head coach PJ Fleck sat in his audience and filled a notebook during Abrashoff's talk. Abrashoff also mentions he is intrigued by Fleck's leadership style in the interview. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From the Archives: On today's Coach and Coordinator podcast, ten-time state champion and 47-year coach Herb Brogan of Lumen Christi Catholic School (Jackson, Michigan) joins host Keith Grabowski. Brogan discusses what's kept him at one place for so long, how he dealt with the toughest of circumstances and his keys to sustained success. Show notes 0:55: What got Brogan into education and coaching 1:40: Things Brogan realized he needed to succeed 4:08: Spending nearly a half-century at one school 6:55: Creating an environment that keeps assistant coaches long-term 8:35: Difficult circumstances in how Brogan took over the program 11:06: Offseason dedication 14:35: The program’s explosive running offense 17:25: Spending time on younger kids, non-skill positions 21:28: Pushing players to excel in today's society 25:10: The future of the game 30:10: The winning edge Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices