Sinopsis
USA Football's Keith Grabowski interviews the most knowledgable head coaches, coordinators, and position coaches from professional, college, and high school football. Keith and his guests discuss the philosophy, concepts, schemes, and strategies that they have learned throughout their careers. Each show includes a specific idea that can be applied to help coaches at every level find the winning edge.
Episodios
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Culture OS – Matt Drinkall, Offensive Line Coach, Army West Point
21/02/2024 Duración: 45minIn this first episode of Culture OS hosted by Rob Pomazak, Army Offensive Line Coach Matt Drinkall shares insights drawn from his extensive coaching career and offers valuable leadership and program development lessons. Show Notes: Matt Drinkall's Personal Mission and Vision The Impact of Mentorship in Coaching Creating a Positive Environment for Coaches and Players Challenges of Being a Head Coach Learning to Let Go and Assign Leadership Roles Building Success vs. Sustaining It Follow Matt Drinkall on Twitter @DrinkallCoach. Series Episodes: Culture OS Series Kickoff Related Episodes with Matt Drinkall: Structuring Your Offense Tempo, Offensive Design, and Organization From the Archives - Matt Drinkall Running Game and Tempo Coaching Cues in the Class Room, On the Field and In Game Defeating the Tite Front Creating the Best Experience for Staff and Players Keeping the Team Focused and Motivated Mid Season Strategic Practice Management - Less is More Related Episodes with Rob Pomazak: Giving Your
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Adding Value to the Program – Jevaughn Codlin, Assistant Defensive Backs Coach, West Virginia
20/02/2024 Duración: 24minIn this episode, Jevaughn Codlin, graduate assistant/assistant defensive backs coach at West Virginia University, shares how he adds value to the program even though he is in an entry-level position. This episode has great reminders for any coach at any stage of his or her career about adding value to the program. Coach Codlin also provides valuable insight for coaches in entry-level positions looking to build their careers. Show Notes: Relationships in the Building Creating relationships with the players, building trust Not only being comfortable with your position group Everyday is an interview Recruiting Being eager to spend time with recruits when they come on campus Be proactive Try to learn the little details about recruits in case a coach asks you something about them When guys come on campus and they ask about you is a sign of doing a good job building real relationships On-Field Value Putting ego to the side No one cares what you know about scheme Watch and learn Teach when the opportu
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The Evolution of Run Fits – Kyle Cogan, Safeties Coach, Benedictine College
19/02/2024 Duración: 34minIn the ever-evolving landscape of football, the concept of run fits has undergone significant transformations to adapt to the changing dynamics of offensive strategies. We are constantly faced with the challenge of staying ahead of the curve in devising effective defensive schemes that can counter the versatility and complexity of modern offenses and vice-versa on the opposite side of the ball. One of the key drivers of this evolution in run fits has been the rise of Run-Pass Options (RPOs), which have forced defensive coaches to rethink traditional approaches to defending the run. In this episode, defensive backs and safeties coach Kyle Cogan explains the evolution in run fits that addresses the dilemma posed by RPOs, where defenders are required to make split-second decisions between defending the run and covering potential pass options. This shift in offensive strategies has led to a paradigm change in defensive philosophies, emphasizing the importance of covering receivers first and fitting the run based
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Culture OS, Episode 1: The Series Kickoff with Rob Pomazak
14/02/2024 Duración: 17minWe are excited to kickoff our new series "Culture OS" with our guest host Rob Pomazak, Head Coach at St. Charles North High School in Illinois. Coach Pomazak has been a guest on the podcast multiple times, and we always enjoy his insight into building a program by design. In this series, he will interview coaches from all levels to gain insight into how they build the operating system that runs the culture of their programs. Coach Pomazak has outlined the mission, vision, and purpose for this series: Mission: Deliver helpful content for coaches in all phases of their journey. Vision: Help as many coaches as possible to develop their program systems. Purpose: Provide service to the profession. Whether you are new to the head coaching seat, a seasoned veteran head coach, an aspiring head coach, or just an assistant looking to be the best assistant you can be, this series is full of insight into how successful coaches build their Culture OS. Thank you for supporting our partners: Learn More about Playbook C
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Clinic Series: Offseason S&C Field Work, Scott Leech, S&C Coach, University of Rhode Island
13/02/2024 Duración: 18minAs we hit mid-February and start to see a little more sun and milder weather, utilizing field work in our strength and conditioning program begins to prepare our team to get back onto the field and develop some general skills that will translate on the field. Scott Leech is the Strength & Conditioning Coach at Rhode Island. In his presentation from the 2023 Lauren’s First and Goal Clinic, he shared his philosophy and approach to utilizing field work to prepare his team. In this segment, he explains why it’s important to incorporate this type of work into your offseason program and how it works with the skill of acceleration, which he feels can only be developed in this type of work. This entire presentation is available as part of the 2023 Lauren’s First and Goal Clinic Premium Pass right now. The pass gives you your ticket to the 2024 clinic and a year of replays, plus access to all the 2023 presentations right up to the kickoff of this year's clinic on February 29. Get your pass, or bring your whole staff a
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Coaching Vocal Leadership
12/02/2024 Duración: 10minIn this episode, host Keith Grabowski gives three simple ways you can teach your team members to be vocal leaders. This focus on vocal leadership will increase energy, build trust, and push team members to be unselfish and invest in others. Be sure to attend the D3 Top 25 Virtual Clinic presented by Coach and Coordinator: https://d3football.coachesclinic.com/ Thank you for supporting our partners: Learn More about Playbook Clinics: Playbook Clinics is a new coaching clinic series, reimagined from the ground up. Playbook organizes a Convening Panel of coaches in the region, asks them what they want to talk about, and who they want to hear from. Check them out at www.playbookclinics.com, get your staff registered, and use the code “Keith” to save $50. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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The Leadership Ladder
08/02/2024 Duración: 14minFrom the archives, we revisit The Leadership Ladder, first presented at a clinic by Gregg Brandon, then the head coach at Bowling Green State University, most recently the head coach at the Colorado School of Mines. It simplifies the levels of leadership and is a helpful tool for your team in the offseason. Show Notes: Learning from Gregg Brandon A Tool to Share with Players Starting with a Coach-Driven Offseason Overview of the Five Levels Level One: Seniority Level Two: Selfish Level Three: Unselfish Level Four: Self-Sacrifice Level Five: High Investment in Others The Offseason Starts with More of an Individual Focus and More Coach-Driven Coaches Need to Model Positive Leadership Utilize the Leadership Ladder to Have Conversations with Players Positive Individuals and How to Deal with Those Who Are Not Aligned Transition to Player-Driven by Creating Opportunities Follow All We Are Doing: Follow us on Twitter/X @CoachKGrabowski. Sign-up for our weekly newsletter. Thank you for supporting ou
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Clinic Series: Are You Practicing Tackling Enough? – Vince DiGaetano, Fordham University
07/02/2024 Duración: 20minIn this clinic series episode, we Dig into the art and science of tackling. It is a skill that demands both physical prowess and strategic understanding. As the game evolves with rule changes designed for player safety, and just a better understanding overall of performance, so too must your tackling systems. This evolution is crucial in bridging the gap between practice drills and in-game performance, ensuring that players can react effectively in high-pressure situations. The tackling system, as outlined by Fordham assistant coach Vince DiGaetano, encompasses various phases designed to develop a holistic approach to tackling. He diagrams the system as a pyramid. It starts with instilling trust and psychological readiness in players, fostering a belief in the coaching methodology and an understanding of the defensive principles beyond mere technique. While Coach Dig goes deeper in this entire presentation, the rest of which is available from Lauren’s First and Goal, this segment sets a good foundation for y
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Coordinator of the Year Shares Keys to Offensive Success – Caleb Corrill, OC, Mount St. Joseph University
05/02/2024 Duración: 45minCaleb Corrill is the offensive coordinator at Mount St. Joseph University. He’s entering his seventh season as OC after serving as the Mount quarterbacks coach from 2015 to 2016. In Corrill's six seasons as the offensive coordinator, the Lions have averaged 41.45 points per game and just over 460 yards per contest. The offense has shattered the record books at the Mount. The Lions under Corrill boasted one of the nation's top offensive units in 2023. They finished third in total offense, averaging 552.5 yards per game, and second in scoring offense, averaging 55.4 points per game, both of which were new MSJ records. Offensively, they were as balanced as any team in the country, finishing ninth nationally in passing offense (324.9 ypg) and 17th in rushing offense (227.5 ypg). Under the tutelage of Corrill, MSJ quarterback Josh Taylor finished as the nation's leader in passing touchdowns (46) and was a semifinalist for the Gagliardi Trophy. Coach Corrill's unit has been a big reason for the Lions' recent run of
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More Than Football – Bill George, Retired Head Coach, US Coast Guard Academy
02/02/2024 Duración: 36minHow do you best serve the school or institution you are at? How does serving create a synergistic effect with buy-in? What can we do to create more leaders? How do we find a better balance in this profession? Those are all questions we dive into with Bill George, retired head coach of the US Coast Guard Academy. Coach George spent 21 seasons as the head football coach at the US Coast Guard Academy, where he used football as a vehicle to help build leaders. He recently wrote a book titled Home Fields: Coast Guard Academy Football Coach Recounts the Unfulfilled Lives of World War II. In this episode, Coach George digs into a number of topics from his book, the importance of understanding the people being served, and how to mold more and better leaders. Show Notes: Key to Longevity Understanding the People Being Served What Are the Goals of These People? Football Is a Vehicle Always Taking a Positive Approach Setting and Keeping the Bar High Give People More Leadership Roles Synergistic Effect on Buy-In
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Creating TFLs and Their Effect on the Offense – Cody Baethke, Defensive Coordinator, Coe College
31/01/2024 Duración: 36minAs a defensive coordinator, Cody Baethke's success at Coe College is a testament to his dedication to crafting a well-rounded and effective defensive strategy. For his efforts, he was recognized by Hansen Ratings as the #4 Defensive Coordinator of the Year for 2023, and the DCOY in his region. In this episode, Coach Baethke shares insights into his coaching philosophy and approach to building a successful defense, which includes placing value on creating TFLs. He emphasizes the importance of flexibility, adaptability, and continuous learning as key elements in his defensive strategy. Show Notes: Background and Coaching Philosophy Core Beliefs on Defense Simplifying Defensive Techniques Creating Havoc with Stand-Up Defensive Lineman Attributes of the Hybrid Defensive Player Philosophy Behind Creating Tackles for Loss Importance of Tackles for Loss on Defense Training Linebackers for Tracking and Tackling Techniques for Cloud Coverage and Inserting Safeties Follow Cody Baethke on Twitter/X @CodyBaet
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Position Culture & Pass Game Organization – Jim Chapin, OC/QB Coach, Eastern Washington
30/01/2024 Duración: 26minToday’s Clinic Series episode is a Lauren's First and Goal segment from Eastern Washington Offensive Coordinator and QB Coach Jimmy Chapin. No matter what position you coach, the model Coach Chapin provides can be applied to building your unit and position culture. Success often hinges on a team's ability to create a strong, cohesive culture. This is especially true when it comes to developing successful quarterbacks. At Eastern Washington, the coaching staff places a significant emphasis on cultivating a culture that fosters growth, resilience, and a collective mindset among their players. The quarterback position is seen as a leadership role that requires not only skill and talent but also a deep understanding of the team's culture and values. The culture at Eastern Washington is built on the foundation of collective identity and systematic group behavior. Coach Chapin emphasizes the importance of players embracing their roles within the team and understanding that individual expectations are tied to the co
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Champions Series: How to Create Program Efficiency – Keith Klestinski, Head Coach, Marquette University High School (WI)
25/01/2024 Duración: 33minKeith Klestinski is the head coach of the 2023 WIAA Division 1 state champion Marquette University High School Hilltoppers. Coach Klestinski, in his fourth season as Marquette's head coach, led the Hilltoppers to a 27-10 victory over previously undefeated Franklin in the title game at Camp Randall Stadium. The win came 54 years after Coach Klestinski's father Ron led the Roncalli Jets to victory over Chippewa Falls McDonnell in the first-ever state football championship game under WIAA. In this episode, Coach Klestinski discusses program efficiency. Marquette High School has the challenge, like many schools, of not having assistants in the building. Coach Klestinski details how they are more efficient and effective in their work as coaches by utilizing technology, virtual coaches, and quality control coaches, as well as how they create a more efficient practice. Follow Keith Klestinski on Twitter/X @CoachKlestinski. Related Resource: Watch Marquette's Force-Alley-Fold Drill mentioned by Coach Klestinski in t
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This Beautiful Profession – Joe Susan, Special Assistant to the HC, Rutgers
24/01/2024 Duración: 16minIn today's Clinic Series, we share a segment from the 3rd Annual Lauren's FIrst & Goal Clinic from Joe Susan, Special Assistant to the Head Coach at Rutgers University. Coach Susan has a wealth of experience with 45 years at multiple stops including nine as the head coach of Bucknell. This is his second stop going into year five at Rutgers and 14 years overall there. In this segment, he talks about "This Beautiful Profession" sharing what he's learned along the way that he believes makes a successful coach. The 2024 Lauren’s First and Goal Premium Access is available now for a $20 early bird savings. The benefit of purchasing this pass now is that you will receive access to all 2023 presentations right up until the 2024 clinic kicks off on February 29th, so your learning does not have to wait until the clinic starts. As always, profits from this clinic go to support Pediatric Brain Tumor Research and Cancer Services. Get your Lauren’s First and Goal 2024 Premium Access ticket now! Thank you for supporting
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Winning First Down – Montell Allen, Defensive Coordinator, University of Chicago
23/01/2024 Duración: 31minToday’s episode is about winning first down on defense, and we are joined by Montell Allen, the defensive coordinator at the University of Chicago. He joined Head Coach Todd Gilchrist, Jr.’s staff in February of 2023, and the Maroons are off to a solid start in Coach Gilchrist’s tenure. We dig into several ideas from creating a multiple system while remaining simple so layers can execute, training hybrid players, and keys to growing in the coaching profession. Be sure to stay tuned to our winning edge takeaways and ideas for implementation following the episode. Show Notes: The importance of P&10 Creating the mindset to win first down “High Five” in practice Being able to move from 3 down to 4 down Studying Jim Knowles The Rush/Leo Position Multiplicity through simplicity Terminology structure for one-word calls - weather fronts How many fronts used Bonus fit system for run fits Hang-plug-fold system Using fronts and dealing with mismatches Game planning the fronts Training the Rush LB Keys to
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Training the Whole Person – Chris Gizzi, Strength & Conditioning Coordinator, Green Bay Packers
20/01/2024 Duración: 39minIn this episode from our archives, we revisit a conversation with Chris Gizzi, the Strength & Conditioning Coordinator for the Green Bay Packers, who breaks down his career path and how to train the whole person for both physical and mental hurdles. Coach Gizzi joined the Green Bay staff in 2014 as a strength and conditioning assistant before elevating to his current role in 2019. Prior the Packers, Coach Gizzi worked on the University of North Carolina's staff after a successful playing career. Gizzi was an undrafted free agent with the Denver Broncos in 1998 before first landing in Green Bay, playing linebacker during the 2000 and 2001 seasons. Coach Gizzi played linebacker at the United States Air Force Academy. He earned back-to-back Western Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year honors in 1996 and 1997. In 2019, Gizzi was inducted into the Air Force Athletics Hall of Fame. Show Notes: First Game After 9/11 Playing Career Importance of a Father Figure Factoring in Wrestling Multi-Sport Ath
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Champions: Programming and Practice Structure of 4x State Champion – Eric Kjar, Head Coach, Corner Canyon High School (UT)
19/01/2024 Duración: 45minIn coaching and in life, how you do things is as important as what you do. In Draper, Utah, Eric Kjar has done an incredible job constructing the how and what behind his 4x state champion Corner Canyon Chargers. Corner Canyon finished the 2023 season ranked #13 nationally by MaxPreps. In seven seasons as the CCHS head coach, Eric has a record of 87-7. In this episode, Coach Kjar talks about the approach he’s taken and details behind Corner Canyon’s strength and speed programming, as well as their practice structure. Then we take a look into their high-powered offense, which averaged 47.6 points per game, including a successful screen game that alone produced 1,100 yards in 2023. Show Notes: Develop as a Coach Being Pushed by Assistants Research-Based Weight Room Programming Speed Training Recovery Time Between Sprints Curved Sprints Practice Structure Reps for Backups Screen Game Follow Eric Kjar on Twitter/X @KjarEric. Additional Champions Series Episodes: Garrett Mueller, Head Coach, Stewartvil
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Make Parents Your Biggest Allies – JP Nerbun, Coach, Consultant, Author
17/01/2024 Duración: 40minDealing with parents can often be a challenging aspect of the job. However, it's crucial to recognize the potential benefits of cultivating positive relationships with parents. By changing our mindset, investing time upfront, staying connected with parents throughout the year, and establishing healthy boundaries, coaches can create a more supportive and harmonious environment for both athletes and parents. In this episode, we discuss all of those benefits with JP Nerbun, a coach, consultant, and author of the book The Sports Parent Solution: Proven Strategies for Transforming Parents from Obstacles to Allies. Show Notes: Background and Motivation for Writing the Book Challenges with Parents in Coaching Impact of Changing Approach with Parents Shifting Mindset in Coaching Relationship with Parents Building Relationships with Parents Preseason Parent Meeting Strategies Engaging Parents in Team Experiences Establishing Parent Standards Involving Assistant Coaches in Parent Engagement Follow JP Nerbun
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Clinic Series: 4 Laws of Learning & Fab 5 of LB Play – William Inge, Co-DC, Washington
16/01/2024 Duración: 24minToday’s episode is from Lauren’s First and Goal Clinic with Wiliam Inge, Co-Defensive Coordinator and Linebackers Coach from the National Runner-Up Washington Huskies. As the game of football continues to evolve, so too must the coaching methods and techniques used to develop players, particularly in positions like linebackers. A transition from the old school to the new school requires a deep understanding of coaching transformation. Coaches must adapt to the changing mindset, training methods, and external influences on players, which are numerous at every level of the game. Embracing technology, including social media, Hudl, YouTube, and email, is crucial for capturing the attention of prospective players and ensuring effective communication and training methods. While Coach Inge goes into how to train today’s linebacker, the ideas he shares apply to coaching any position. Show Notes: Introduction to Linebacker Skills and Drills The Four Laws of Learning Importance of Repetition Phase The Fab Five for
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Nick Saban on Player Development, Discipline, and Maintaining Winning Culture
11/01/2024 Duración: 22minThese last 24 hours seem to signal the end of an era with three coaching icons – Pete Carroll, Bill Belichick, and Nick Saban – stepping away from the sidelines. All three have had a tremendous impact on the game and the coaching profession. Coach Saban stands as a towering figure in the realm of college football. He leaves an indelible impact on both the sport and the coaching profession. His unparalleled success, marked by seven national championships and a consistently high level of performance, has set a benchmark for excellence that aspiring coaches now and in the future will aim to emulate. His meticulous approach to the game, strategic brilliance, and unwavering commitment to building not just exceptional players but also well-rounded individuals has set a standard. Beyond the wins and titles, his influence extends to coaching methodologies, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, discipline, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Coach and Coordinator Podcast Host Keith Grabowski had the privileg