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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D3 Hansen Ratings Coach and Coordinators of the Week - Jeff Whitehead, Mason Tomblin, Brad Spencer
10/10/2025 Duración: 41minOn this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week, presented by Tully, hosts Logan and John highlight three standout leaders from the Division III football ranks — each representing the discipline, preparation, and culture that define championship programs. First, Jeff Whitehead, OC at Hardin-Simmons University (TX), shares how adaptability in practice structure, competitive “good-on-good” sessions, and a strong team culture drive offensive excellence. Next, Mason Tomblin, DC at the College of Wooster (OH), discusses the value of consistent, purposeful practice and the crucial role his staff and student assistants play in maintaining defensive sharpness throughout the week. Finally, Brad Spencer, HC of North Central College (IL) reflects on the foundation of his team’s success — from player retention and senior leadership to promote a brotherhood that values every individual’s contribution. Together, these conversations capture the mindset and habits that elevate Division III
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National Coach of the Week - Doug Ramsey, Elder HS (OH)
09/10/2025 Duración: 13minOn this episode of National Coach of the Week presented by Modern Football Technology. Doug Ramsey, Head Coach of Elder HS (OH), shares how nearly three decades of leadership have shaped one of Ohio’s most respected football programs. Coach Ramsey discusses the power of accountability, the balance between veteran and young coaches on his staff, and the enduring sense of brotherhood that defines the Elder community. He also takes us inside the legendary game day atmosphere at The Pit, reflecting on how legacy, preparation, and attention to detail inspire his players to embrace high-pressure moments and uphold the standards of the program. Listeners will gain insight into how consistency, culture, and connection continue to drive success for Elder Football—on and off the field. Chapters Introduction to Coach Doug Ramsey and Cincinnati Elder Football Building a Strong Coaching Staff Accountability and Team Culture Game Day Experience at The Pit Legacy and Expectations at Elder High School
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Your Call - Honoring Warriors: Structuring a Powerful Pink Night - Matt Hennesy, Pawhuska HS (OK)
08/10/2025 Duración: 14minOn this episode of Your Call, presented by the Headset App. Matt Hennesy, Head Coach at Pawhuska High School (OK), discusses his program’s powerful community tradition known as Pink Night. Coach Hennesy explains how his team honors local cancer warriors by wearing jerseys bearing their names — transforming a single game into a heartfelt movement of awareness and compassion. He shares the deeper meaning behind the initiative, how it builds stronger connections between players and the community, and the tangible impact the funds raised have on local families. Listeners will discover how Pink Night has grown beyond a single event — becoming a model for how sports can inspire purpose, create lasting memories, and unite communities. Chapters Introduction to Pink Night Initiative The Process of Honoring Cancer Warriors Fundraising and Community Engagement Memorable Experiences and Impact Final Thoughts and Best Practices Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Matt Hennesy: @Coac
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Game Planning Tips - Identity and Discipline - Ian Shoemaker, Dante Bartee, Garrett Clawson
06/10/2025 Duración: 24minThis week on the Coach and Coordinator Network Weekly Game Planning Tips Series, presented by Lauren’s First and Goal, three coaches share how discipline, structure, and identity shape winning football. Grand Valley Offensive Coordinator Ian Shoemaker breaks down how using Formation into the Boundary (FIB) stresses defenses structurally and creates matchup advantages. Oregon Analyst Dante Bartee shares his “Who We Are / Who We’re Not” concept — a film-based tool to define defensive identity beyond scheme. Michigan Analyst Garrett Clawson simplifies punt return to one goal — get the ball back — while showing how precision and awareness drive results. Since 2004, Lauren’s First and Goal has raised nearly $3 million for pediatric brain tumor research and family support services. Each March, they host their virtual coaching clinic featuring top college and professional coaches. Learn more or get involved at laurensfirstandgoal.org. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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D3 Hansen Ratings Coach and Coordinator of the Week - Matt Tschetter, Mike Sirianni, James Houck
03/10/2025 Duración: 40minOn this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week presented by Tully, hosts Logan and John bring you two powerful conversations with standout coaches across Division 3 football. We start with Wartburg defensive coordinator Matt Tschetter joins the show to share his structured approach to game planning. He discusses the importance of player involvement, the collaborative dynamic among the coaching staff, and how balancing preparation with player well-being is crucial to sustained success. Next, Washington & Jefferson head coach Mike Sirianni reflects on his recent victory, emphasizing the value of a strong coaching staff, consistent practice, and maintaining passion and intensity in every session. He offers practical insights on balancing consistency with adaptability to keep players engaged and competitive. Together, these conversations highlight the resilience, strategy, and passion that drive Division 3 football, offering lessons for coaches and players at every level. James Houc
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National Coach of the Week - Balancing Strength and Health: The Bosco Approach - Dan Sabella, HC, Don Bosco Prep (NJ)
02/10/2025 Duración: 16minOn this episode of National Coach of the Week presented by Modern Football, host Keith Grabowski talks with Dan Sabella, Head Coach at Don Bosco Prep, following a major program victory. Coach Sabella shares his approach to building toughness, maintaining player strength throughout the season, and structuring training to balance conditioning with injury prevention. The discussion covers strategies for weight training, managing injured players, and using weekly weigh-ins and analytics to track player health and performance. He also highlights the importance of staff collaboration, clear communication with trainers, and maintaining accountability across the program. Chapters Celebrating a Historic Win Building Toughness Through Off-Season Training Weekly Training Structure and Philosophy Weight Room Organization and Efficiency Managing Injuries and Keeping Players Engaged Tracking Progress and Injury Prevention Introduction to Coaching and Technology The Role of Analytics in Modern Co
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Your Call - Sacrifice and Core Values: Building a Culture of Unity - Joel Nellis, HC, Brookfield Central HS (WI)
01/10/2025 Duración: 12minOn this episode of Your Call presented by the Headset App, host Keith Grabowski is joined by Joel Nellis, Head Coach at Brookfield Central High School (WI). Coach Nellis shares his coaching philosophy, which is rooted in sacrifice, discipline, and trust. Coach Nellis emphasizes how core values shape not only team culture but also individual growth. Through personal stories and practical examples, he illustrates how promoting unity, recognizing the importance of role players, and consistently reinforcing team values can lay the foundation for long-term success. This episode is a powerful reminder that football culture goes beyond X’s and O’s. It’s about building trust, unity, and a legacy of discipline that extends far beyond the field. Chapters Building a New Culture in Football Coaching Core Values: The Foundation of Brotherhood The Importance of Sacrifice and Team Unity The Importance of Sacrifice in Team Dynamics Building a Culture of Commitment and Values Connect on X: Keith Gra
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Game Planning Tips - Discipline in the Details
29/09/2025 Duración: 24minThis week on the Coach and Coordinator Network Weekly Game Planning Tips Series, presented by Lauren’s First and Goal, three coaches share practical ways discipline drives game-day execution. Kyle Ohradzansky – Offensive Coordinator, University of Findlay Ohradzansky explains how simplifying the call sheet and sticking with your core identity can keep an offense efficient and on schedule. Ilaisa Tuiaki – Defensive Line Coach, Oregon StateTuiaki highlights the importance of building a defensive plan that adjusts to personnel and leverages situational football. Dan Beard - Special Teams Coordinator, Gettysburg College Beard focuses on eliminating hidden-yardage mistakes and creating an edge by drilling situational special teams work every week. Offense wins by staying true to its identity and avoiding unnecessary complexity. Defense thrives when adjustments fit personnel and game context. Special teams provide confidence when every scenario has been rehearsed. Since 2004, Laur
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Next Move - Breaking Into Coaching Through Credibility, Networking, and Mindset - Nate Stout, OL Coach, UT Martin
27/09/2025 Duración: 10minOn this episode of Next Move presented by Coach Portal, UT Martin offensive line coach Nate Stout shares his unique journey into the coaching profession, proving that a non-traditional path can still lead to success. He reflects on how maturity, life experience, and perseverance helped him build credibility and overcome doubts along the way. Stout highlights the importance of networking, embracing challenges, and maintaining the right mindset to grow as a coach. He emphasizes that age should never be a barrier and encourages aspiring coaches to stay present, attack responsibilities with determination, and view every obstacle as an opportunity for growth. Chapters Breaking Into Coaching: A Non-Traditional Path Building Credibility and Networking in Coaching Overcoming Doubts and Embracing Maturity The Mindset of a Coach: No Age Limit to Success Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Nate Stout: @CoachStoutUTM Get in the Coach Portal: Sign up for your free 6-month trial t
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National Coach of the Week - The Heart of Coaching: Teamwork, Perspective, and Building a Legacy - Joel Bradford, HC, McCallie High School (TN)
25/09/2025 Duración: 18minOn this episode of National Coach of the Week, presented by Modern Football Technology. Keith Grabowski sits down with Joel Bradford, Head Coach at McCallie High School (TN), to recognize him as the National Coach of the Week. Coach Bradford shares his philosophy on leadership and the importance of teamwork, perspective, and resilience in high school football. He emphasizes focusing on the process rather than just outcomes, showing how discipline, gratitude, and mentorship shape both athletes and coaches. Throughout the conversation, Bradford reflects on creating lasting memories through sports, responding positively to challenges, and the ripple effect coaching can have on players and the broader community. His insights remind us that true success in football is measured not only by wins and losses, but by the growth, gratitude, and life lessons gained through competition. Chapters Celebrating Coaching Excellence Perspective in Coaching Learning from Wins and Losses The Ripple Effect of Co
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Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week - JB Wells, Daniel Fields, & Chad Braun
25/09/2025 Duración: 43minOn this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week presented by Tully, hosts Logan and John highlight three coaches shaping their programs with creativity, resilience, and leadership. First, JB Wells, Offensive Coordinator at the Coast Guard Academy (CT), shares how his team navigates the challenges of a military academy. He stresses tempo as their offensive identity, the value of maximizing limited practice time, and how scout team strategies and technology boost efficiency. Next, Daniel Fields, Defensive Coordinator at Lewis & Clark (OR), discusses guiding a young staff and building defensive principles rooted in mental management. He explains how mindset, preparation, and solution-focused coaching help players gain confidence and perform at a high level. Finally, Chad Braun, Head Coach at Monmouth College (IL), reflects on toughness, teamwork, and balancing competition with player safety. He emphasizes protecting teammates, pursuing continuous improvement, and the work ethic needed
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Your Call - Harnessing Parental Passion: Coaching Strategies and Healthy Boundaries - Darrick Ware, HC, Grapevine Faith Christian School (TX)
24/09/2025 Duración: 16minOn this episode of Your Call, presented by the Headset App, Darrick Ware, Head Coach at Grapevine Faith Christian School (TX), shares valuable insights on managing and engaging parental involvement in youth sports. Drawing on 18 years of coaching experience, Ware explains how to channel parental passion while setting healthy boundaries that protect team culture. He introduces the Dunning–Kruger effect as a framework to help parents understand the complexities of coaching and why collaboration—not interference—is essential to success. Throughout the conversation, Ware highlights the power of storytelling to educate and inspire, offering practical ways parents can support their child’s program through encouragement, time, and resources. His approach shows that when coaches and parents work together within clear boundaries, the result is a stronger culture, better experiences for athletes, and a thriving football community. Chapters Introduction to Coaching Philosophy Harnessing Parental Passion
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Sprint-Based Football - Fresh, Not Fried: A New Era of High School Coaching - Jesse Chinchar, HC, St. Petersburg Catholic HS
23/09/2025 Duración: 55minOn this episode of Sprint Based Football, presented by Titan Sports, Tony Holler welcomes Coach Jesse Chinchar, Head Coach at St. Petersburg Catholic HS (FL), to discuss his innovative approach to coaching. Jesse reflects on his journey from apart of building Clearwater Academy International into a program from scratch to now leading the St. Petersburg Catholic. He explains how injury prevention, creative practice design, and strong team culture form the core of his coaching philosophy. The conversation explores his use of drone technology for practice analysis, data-driven performance strategies, and methods for keeping players energized instead of overworked. Jesse also challenges traditional coaching norms, emphasizing execution and prioritizing player well-being both on and off the field. This episode delivers valuable insights for coaches at every level, showing how innovation, culture, and science can work together to create lasting success. Chapters Journey to Coaching & Embracing Change
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Game Planning Tips - First Down, Building Defensive Fronts & Drilling Special Teams
22/09/2025 Duración: 21minIn this episode of the Game Planning Tips Series, Keith Grabowski highlights insights from three respected coaches—covering offense, defense, and special teams—to help you refine your weekly prep. Jordan Neal (Offense – McMurry University Head Coach) Why first down efficiency and “P & 10” study are vital to offensive success, and how disciplined play calling keeps your offense in rhythm. Chris Lorenti (Defense – Rhode Island Defensive Coordinator) A step-by-step approach to building the weekly defensive game plan, from run game fits on Sunday to odd/even front decisions that shape the entire structure. John Mack (Special Teams – Retired HS & College Coach) Championship-tested special teams fundamentals: eliminating self-inflicted mistakes, drilling situational punting, and practicing scoop-and-score after blocked kicks. Game planning is only half the battle—execution on game day depends on fast, clear decision making. With Modern Football Technology, you can turn live data into instant insights fo
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Next Move - Coaching with Vision: Moving Timing and Having a Career Plan - JB Brown, Assoc. HC & DC, Black Hills State
20/09/2025 Duración: 19minOn this episode of Next Move, presented by Coach Portal, Keith Grabowski sits down with JB Brown, Defensive Coordinator at Black Hills State, to discuss the power of long-term planning in coaching. JB explains how developing a clear three-to-five-year vision can drive meaningful career growth, help avoid short-term traps, and align opportunities with personal purpose. Drawing from personal stories and real-world coaching decisions, JB emphasizes the role of self-awareness, mentorship, and strategic evaluation in navigating career moves. Whether you're climbing the ranks or leading a struggling program, this conversation shows how clarity and preparation can lead to lasting impact in the coaching profession. Chapters The Importance of a Long-Term Vision in Coaching JB Brown's Coaching Journey and Career Path Setting a Three to Five Year Plan The Mindset Shift: From Short-Term to Long-Term Thinking The Value of Development and Relationships in Coaching Real-Life Examples of Career Decisio
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Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week - Junior Collins, OC, Mount Union (OH), Ryan Cortez, DC, Whitewater (WI), Pat Ruley, HC, Rowan (NJ)
19/09/2025 Duración: 41minOn this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week presented by Tully, hosts Logan Hansen and John Snell spotlight three outstanding coaches, each offering a unique perspective on football strategy, philosophy, and team development. First, Junior Collins, Offensive Coordinator at Mount Union, emphasizes the critical importance of red zone execution. He reflects on lessons learned from his mentor, Hall of Fame Head Coach Larry Kehres, shares insights on practice design, and highlights how collaboration within the staff drives offensive success. Next, Ryan Cortez, Defensive Coordinator at Wisconsin Whitewater, uses the analogy of mastering a fastball to illustrate the value of strong fundamentals before fine-tuning technique. His approach underscores the importance of simplicity, repetition, and clarity in teaching athletes. Finally, Pat Ruley, Head Coach at Rowan University, explores practice efficiency. He introduces the idea of an “alignment period” to maximize training impact w
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National Coach of the Week - Mastering Situational Football: Practice, Preparation, and Game Success - Matt Logan, HC, Centennial HS (CA)
18/09/2025 Duración: 20minOn this episode of National Coach of the Week presented by Modern Football, Keith Grabowski sits down with Matt Logan, HC of Centennial HS (CA), to unpack their recent victory over Former #1 Mater Dei (CA)and the critical role situational football plays in coaching. Coach Logan shares practical strategies for building game-ready teams, from weekly two-minute drills to designing realistic practice environments that prepare players for every scenario. He emphasizes teaching players the mechanics of the game, maintaining attention to detail, and adapting to the unexpected. Listeners will gain valuable insights into effective practice design, communication with referees, and ways coaches can instill resilience and awareness in their athletes. This episode is packed with lessons for coaches at every level looking to strengthen their teams’ preparation and execution when the game is on the line. Chapters Celebrating Success: Centennial High's Big Win Mastering Situational Football: Key Strategies Cre
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Your Call - Empowering Young Athletes with Creativity and Ownership - Kevin Swift, Former State Champion Head Coach (OR)
17/09/2025 Duración: 10minOn this episode of Your Call presented by the Headset App, Coach Kevin Swift shares his extensive high school coaching experience, emphasizing player empowerment and creativity. He explains how innovative special teams strategies can boost discipline and performance while bringing excitement and fun back to the game. Coach Swift emphasizes the importance of giving players ownership and freedom to share ideas, fostering deeper engagement and surprising successes. Through practical examples and thoughtful insights, he shows how trust, structured practices, and creative play-calling combine to develop stronger athletes and better team dynamics. Listeners will gain actionable strategies to empower their teams, balance discipline with creativity, and prepare genuine player-driven ownership. Chapters Empowering Young Athletes: A Coaching Journey Innovative Strategies in Special Teams Empowering Players Through Creativity Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Kevin Swift: @kdawgswi
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Game Planning Tips - Offensive Multiplicity, Defensive Red Zone Keys & Return Prep
16/09/2025 Duración: 20minWe’re two into the season, and by now, tendencies are showing—but so are the adjustments. In this episode of The Sunday Scouting Report, Keith Grabowski shares insights from three coaches across offense, defense, and special teams to help you sharpen your Week 3 game plan. This Week’s Insights: Offense – Noah Riley, Analyst, Baltimore Ravens How to create elegant simplicity: keep schemes teachable while multiplying looks through personnel, formations, and tempo. Learn how to force defenses out of their comfort zone and dictate matchups. Defense – Matt Powledge, Defensive Coordinator, Baylor Why the red zone is its own game—and how QB runs, new concepts, and a simple weekly checklist can help you prepare for the details that matter most inside the 20. Special Teams – Andy Merfeld, Special Teams Coordinator A proven workflow for kickoff return prep: from data breakdown and depth chart management to scripting the entire week early so players get the reps and study time they need. Key Quote
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Sprint-Based Football - Fueling Performance: Nutrition for Young Athletes - Wendi Irlbeck, MS, RDN, LD, CISSN
15/09/2025 Duración: 51minOn this episode of Sprint Based Football, presented by Titan Sports, host Tony Holler sits down with sports dietitian Wendi Irlbeck MS, RDN, LD, CISSN, to explore how nutrition drives athletic development and performance. Wendi explains how proper fueling enhances strength, recovery, and focus, while offering practical tips on meal prep, hydration, and safe supplement use. She stresses the responsibility of coaches and parents in guiding athletes’ nutrition and warns of the risks of energy drinks. The discussion highlights the benefits of creatine, the importance of gut health, and why prioritizing nutrition is just as critical as training for long-term success. Chapters Introduction to Nutrition in Sports Nutrition Fundamentals for Young Athletes The Role of Parents in Athlete Nutrition Protein Goals and Quality Sources for Athletes Optimizing Body Composition Through Nutrition The Risks of Fad Diets for Young Athletes Understanding Gut Health and Its Impact on Performance C