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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Passing Lab - Finding the Open Window: Intertwining Choice, Air Raid and Tempo - Herbert Davis, HC, Madison Ridgeland Academy (MS)
06/08/2025 Duración: 40minOn this episode of The Passing Lab, presented by Modern Football Technology, Herbert Davis, HC, MRA (MS) breaks down the evolution of his passing game and the strategy behind implementing the Baylor offense. With decades of experience, Davis shares insights on building quarterback consistency, using tempo to apply pressure, and structuring an offense around player strengths. He also emphasizes the importance of having a flexible coaching staff capable of adapting schemes to fit personnel. Davis dives into choice routes, spacing concepts, and the creative tweaks needed to counter modern defenses like drop-eight coverage. From Y-cross variations to in-game checkdowns, he offers practical ideas that coaches can apply right away. Whether you're building a new system or refining an established one, this episode delivers valuable takeaways on scoring more points, staying adaptable, and leading with purpose. Chapters: Introduction and Coach Herbert Davis’s coaching journey Adopting and adapting the Baylor
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Student of the Game - Value In Experience: Learning and Developing IQ From Both Sides of the Ball - Nick Davis, Head Coach, Ottawa University
05/08/2025 Duración: 01h01minOn this episode of Student of the Game, host Caleb Corrill sits down with Nick Davis, Head Coach at Ottawa University, to explore what it truly means to lead, teach, and grow as a defensive-minded coach in today’s game. Coach Davis shares his journey through the coaching ranks and offers valuable insights into defensive strategy, adaptability, and the ongoing commitment to learning. He breaks down how to simplify complex concepts without losing their impact, why collaboration during installation matters, and how to prepare players to think, react, and lead on the field. Whether you're a new or veteran coach, this episode is a blueprint for growth, experimentation, and building winning habits through efficient coaching and a team-first philosophy. Chapters Introduction and Background of Coaches Nick Davis's Coaching Journey Philosophy of Knowledge Acquisition Defensive Strategy and Chaos Creation Simplifying Complex Concepts Defensive Philosophy and Multiplicity Installation Process
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Champions - What Wins in Week One: Identity, Prep, and Install - Rich Alercio, Head Coach, St. Johnsbury Academy (VT)
04/08/2025 Duración: 22minOn this episode of Champions, presented by Signature Championship Rings, St. Johnsbury Academy (VT) Head Coach Rich Alercio shares his blueprint for a successful start to the football season, emphasizing the critical importance of Week One preparation. He breaks down how a strong team identity, thoughtful player evaluation, and evidence-based coaching decisions lay the foundation for long-term success. Coach Alercio explores the balance between keeping playbooks simple and maintaining effective schemes—especially at the high school level. He offers practical strategies for pacing installations, running controlled scrimmages, and sustaining team energy as game day approaches. With a focus on fundamentals, readiness, and leadership, this episode delivers a clear game plan for any coach looking to start the season strong. Whether you're preparing for Week One or shaping a season-long identity, this conversation offers timely insights for coaches at every level. Chapters Introduction to Coach Rich Alerci
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Your Call - The Selfless Team Wins Together - Tod Creneti, Former HS & College Coach
03/08/2025 Duración: 11minOn this episode of Your Call, presented by The Headset App, Coach Tod Creneti explores what it truly means to lead a selfless team — both on and off the football field. Drawing from years of coaching experience, Coach Creneti shares how relationship-building, accountability, and putting others first can create not just better athletes, but better people. Through personal stories and practical insights, he unpacks how team culture thrives when egos take a backseat — and how coaches play a crucial role in shaping that environment. This conversation isn’t just about X’s and O’s; it’s about character, connection, and leading with intention. For coaches, mentors, and anyone passionate about personal growth through sports, this episode offers a powerful reminder: you don’t win with just one or two guys — you win by lifting each other up. Chapters The Journey of a Coach Fostering Selflessness in Football Building a Winning Culture Lessons Beyond the Field Building a Culture of Selflessness Th
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Next Move - Scouting Your Way Into College Football - Darrius Sims, Director of Scouting, MTSU
02/08/2025 Duración: 10minOn this episode of Next Move, presented by Coach Portal, Keith Grabowski sits down with Darrius Sims, Director of Scouting at Middle Tennessee State University, for an honest and insightful conversation about breaking into the competitive world of college football scouting and personnel. Sims shares his personal journey, offering real-world advice on finding job opportunities, building authentic relationships, and gaining the hands-on experience needed to thrive in the field. Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of what it takes to succeed as a scout—confidence in player evaluation, effective communication with coaches, and a relentless drive for professional growth. Whether you're a young coach, an aspiring director of player personnel, or a sports management student looking to get your foot in the door, this episode delivers practical guidance to help you take the next step in your scouting career. Chapters Navigating the College Football Personnel Landscape Building Relationship
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Culture Stories - Chemistry Is the Culture: Building Connection and Community - Richie Rode, Bishop Verot HS (FL)
01/08/2025 Duración: 24minOn this episode of Culture Stories, presented by Story of the Season, Richie Rode, Head Coach of Bishop Verot High School (FL), shares his insights on what it takes to build a lasting program culture—one rooted in trust, accountability, and connection. From navigating player transfers to deepening parent involvement, Coach Rode explores how today’s sports landscape demands more than just strategy—it requires intentional leadership. He discusses the importance of shared experiences, community storytelling, and using platforms like Story of the Season to enhance fundraising and legacy-building efforts. Most importantly, he reminds us that great coaching isn’t just about winning—it’s about creating memories that matter. Whether you're a coach, mentor, or parent in the game, this episode offers a blueprint for leading with heart, clarity, and purpose. Chapters Building a Strong Program Culture Navigating Change in High School Football The Role of Community and Connection Leveraging Technology for
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Champions - Adapting to the Game: Offensive Creativity & Tactics to Beat Adjustments - Maas (OK), Reinhart (TX), Christensen (UT),and Medrano (CA)
31/07/2025 Duración: 47minOn this episode of Champions presented by Signature Championship Rings, we dive into a high-level conversation on offensive innovation in football. This roundtable discussion—featuring William Maas, Assistant Coach, Bixby HS (OK), Eli Reinhart, Head Coach, Hutto HS (TX), Barkley Christensen, Head Coach, San Juan HS (UT), and Adrian Medrano, Head Coach, El Rancho HS (CA) —unpacks how coaches are creatively adapting their playbooks to counter evolving defensive trends. From incorporating play-action and RPOs to attacking tite fronts, to leveraging personnel for matchup advantages, the episode explores what it takes to stay ahead. The coaches share firsthand insights on designing simple yet effective schemes, maximizing run-game efficiency, and using formations to create strategic mismatches. Whether you're game-planning for Friday night or building a long-term system, this episode delivers actionable ideas to help your offense thrive under pressure. Chapters Introduction and Overview of the Round Table
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Student of the Game - Growth of a Coach: Steps, Collaboration and Film Study - John Perin, Head Coach, Georgetown College
30/07/2025 Duración: 01h06minOn this episode of Student of the Game, host Caleb Corrill is joined by Georgetown College Head Coach John Perin to explore the core of leadership in football. From building strong relationships to mastering the installation process, Coach Perin shares what it takes to grow—not just as a coach, but as a person. They dive into the value of continuous learning, collaboration across coaching staffs, and why walkthroughs must remain dynamic to be effective. Coach Perin also reflects on his transition to head coach and the mindset shifts required to lead a program. Whether you're a seasoned coach or just starting out, this episode offers valuable insight into building a winning culture rooted in people, preparation, and perspective. Chapters: Coaching Dynamics & Setting the Stage John Perin’s Journey to Head Coach The Student of the Game Mindset Continuous Growth & Coaching Development Lessons from Past Installations Core Concepts in Early Installations Defensive Mentality & Walkthrough A
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Sprint Based Football - Speed, Science, and Breaking Barriers: Coaching the Modern Athlete - Cici Murray, NFL Combine Trainer
29/07/2025 Duración: 58minOn this episode of Sprint Based Football, presented by Titan Sports, Tony Holler sits down with Cici Murray — a rising force in football training and speed development — to discuss the evolving landscape of athletic performance and the growing influence of women in shaping it. Cici shares her journey from physical therapy to elite football coaching, diving into topics like the science of speed, the importance of athlete health, and how tools like speed labs and force-velocity profiling are transforming the game. The conversation also explores the mental side of performance, including journaling, manifestation, and building trust with athletes. From cutting-edge tech to innovative training methods, this episode delivers insight and inspiration for coaches, athletes, and anyone passionate about pushing the boundaries of football performance. Chapters Introduction and Cici Murray’s Coaching Journey Mentorship, Influences, and Career Evolution Building a Coaching Network and Speed Training Communi
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The Passing Lab - Layered Offense: Deep Routes, Smart Calls, and QB Play - Josh Thacker, Former HS Coach & Founder of 1 QB Academy
28/07/2025 Duración: 43minOn this episode of The Passing Lab, presented by Modern Football Technology, we sit down with Josh Thacker—veteran coach, offensive consultant, and founder of 1 QB Academy—to break down the details behind elite quarterback development and pass game design. Coach Thacker shares insights from his coaching journey and dives into offensive philosophy, including the Air Raid quick game, RPO concepts, and the strategic use of deep choice routes. He emphasizes the importance of layering play calls and tailoring schemes to fit player strengths to maximize offensive success. The conversation also covers key mechanics and coaching points, including rotational movement, common throwing issues among young quarterbacks, and the value of gap scheme runs—particularly through the A-gap—as a foundational piece of his system. Whether you’re a quarterback coach or offensive coordinator, this episode delivers practical frameworks and teaching tools to help refine your approach and elevate your offense. Chapters Introduc
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Your Call - Reset, Refocus, Respond: Mental Framework for Defenses to Excel in Key Moments - Shawn Jezek, DC/S&C Coordinator, Stratford HS (TX)
27/07/2025 Duración: 18minOn this episode of Your Call, presented by The Headset App, Shawn Jezek—Defensive and Strength & Conditioning Coordinator at Stratford HS (TX)—breaks down the philosophy behind “Next Play Speed,” a mental and strategic framework designed to train players to reset, refocus, and attack each down with purpose. Coach Jezek explains how emotional regulation, effective communication, and down-and-distance awareness come together to elevate defensive performance. He also highlights the often-overlooked value of special teams and the importance of full staff buy-in for lasting success. From managing high-pressure moments to implementing game-changing strategies, this episode delivers practical tools for coaches looking to build tougher, smarter, and more composed teams. Chapters Introduction to Next Play Speed Philosophy of Winning the Down Implementation and Communication Strategies Defensive Strategies and Game Situations Real-World Applications and Success Stories Coaching Buy-In and Conc
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Next Move - The Climb: From Quality Control to Coaching Credibility - Matt Clark, Former D1 QC & WR Coach
26/07/2025 Duración: 10minOn this episode of Next Move, presented by Coach Portal, Keith Grabowski is joined by former Division I Assistant Coach Matt Clark to explore how quality control roles can be a vital launchpad for aspiring football coaches. Together, they break down how attention to detail, effective communication, and special teams experience can accelerate professional growth and build lasting trust within a coaching staff. Matt shares lessons from his journey, offering practical advice on maximizing learning opportunities, staying organized, and embracing every aspect of the game. Whether you’re just starting or ready to take the next step, this episode serves as a playbook for building credibility, fostering relationships, and growing your career with intention. Chapters The Foundation of Coaching Careers Building Connections and Trust in Coaching Maximizing Learning Opportunities Earning Trust and Responsibility Connect on X: Keith Grabowski - @CoachKGrabowski Matt Clark - @classicmclark Get
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Student of the Game - Never Stop Being Curious: Building Smarter Offenses - Mason Espinosa, OC, DePauw University
25/07/2025 Duración: 53minOn this episode of Student of the Game, host Caleb Corrill sits down with Mason Espinosa, the rising Offensive Coordinator at DePauw University, to unpack the mindset and methods behind his coaching success. From confidence-building walkthroughs to collaborative quarterback development, Mason highlights how curiosity and simplicity drive both learning and performance. They take a deep dive into his offensive philosophy—getting the ball to the best players, reading defenses, and staying adaptable. Mason also reflects on his growth as a coordinator, offering insight into evaluating quarterback traits and building an identity-driven offense that responds to the moment. For coaches at any level, this episode offers a thoughtful blueprint for evolving with the game. Chapters Introduction to Mason Espinosa Mason's Journey in Football Building Offensive Knowledge Offensive Philosophy and Strategy Player Development and Execution Concept Evaluation and Adaptation Installation Process and Met
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The Passing Lab - Mastering the Modern Pass Game: Elevating the QB Room From Top to Bottom - Jimmy Robertson, PGC/QB Coach, Monmouth University
24/07/2025 Duración: 52minOn this episode of The Passing Lab, presented by Modern Football Technology, host Josh Herring is joined by Jimmy Robertson, pass game coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Monmouth University, to break down the intricacies of their high-powered offense. From collaborating with his brother on staff to refining communication in the quarterback room, Coach Robertson offers a comprehensive look at the principles driving their success. He dives into Monmouth’s use of RPOs, the strategic application of four verticals, and how his calm coaching style empowers quarterbacks to lead with confidence. Whether he’s teaching decisiveness or adjusting game plans week to week, this episode delivers a masterclass in building an elite passing attack—one rooted in trust, teaching, and explosive execution. Chapters Introduction to Monmouth Football and Coach Robertson Coach Robertson's Journey: From Player to Coach Coaching Family Dynamics: Working with His Brother The Success of Monmouth's Offense: Key Factors
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Your Call - Back to Basics: Coaching with Clarity and Purpose - Chris Fisher, OL Coach, Ridge Point HS (TX)
20/07/2025 Duración: 11minOn this episode of Your Call, presented by the Headset App, OL Coach Chris Fisher of Ridge Point HS (TX) shares how a return to fundamentals transformed his unit. Confronted with miscommunication and underperformance, Coach Fisher and his staff made a bold move: they stripped down their approach, simplified the game plan, and focused on foundational drills and clear communication. The result? A more confident group, noticeable player development, and a stronger, more cohesive team dynamic. This episode offers a candid look at the realities of high school coaching and demonstrates how getting back to basics can unlock untapped potential—especially in younger or less experienced athletes. Perfect for coaches looking for practical insights into development, leadership, and adapting strategies to fit their team’s needs. Chapters Introduction to Coaching Challenges Identifying Miscommunication and Simplifying Strategies Rebuilding Foundations and Player Development Lessons Learned and Future Impl
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Next Move - Earn the Whistle: Becoming a Trusted Coach – Greg Holsworth, Head Coach, Henderson State University
19/07/2025 Duración: 10minOn this episode of Next Move, presented by Coach Portal, Coach Keith Grabowski sits down with Henderson State Head Coach Greg Holsworth to explore what truly sets successful coaches and coordinators apart—both on the field and in the hiring process. They dive into how leadership, trust, communication, and cultural alignment shape a coordinator’s role beyond just calling plays. This insightful conversation offers valuable guidance for aspiring coordinators, covering how to build trust, motivate players, and align with a head coach’s vision. Whether you're climbing the coaching ladder or mentoring future leaders, this episode delivers practical takeaways on how to grow, lead, and succeed in today’s coaching landscape. Chapters The Role of Coordinators Beyond Play Calling Leadership and Character in Coaching & Hiring Teaching Skills and Adaptability Communication and Trust in Coaching Advice for Aspiring Coordinators Connect on X: Keith Grabowski - @CoachKGrabowski Greg Holsworth - @C
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Student of the Game - Building Offenses and Coaching Minds - Bob Davies, OC/QB Coach, Gustavus Adolphus College
18/07/2025 Duración: 01h01minOn this episode of Student of the Game, host Caleb Corrill is joined by Bob Davies, Offensive Coordinator and QB Coach at Gustavus Adolphus College, for an insightful conversation on coaching, offensive philosophy, and the power of teaching. Corrill and Davies explore the inner workings of building an effective offense—from implementing a new system and embracing experimentation to creating adaptability and encouraging player buy-in through thoughtful questioning. Davies highlights how surrounding yourself with a strong, supportive environment accelerates growth, and he emphasizes the importance of clarity and confidence when pitching your vision. Throughout the episode, Davies offers actionable insights for both up‑and‑coming coordinators and veteran coaches: how to mentor athletes through mistakes, spark innovation by trying new things, and solve problems creatively on the fly. Packed with real‑world examples, this conversation offers practical wisdom for anyone dedicated to developing players, refining p
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Your Call - Adapting to Your Personnel: Innovating with Empty Sets Through Roster Challenges - Aaron Chantler, Head Coach, Auburn HS (WA)
17/07/2025 Duración: 17minOn this episode of Your Call, presented by The Headset App, Coach Aaron Chantler of Auburn High School (WA) shares the evolution of his offensive strategy, spotlighting a bold transition to the spread offense and the creative use of empty formations. Faced with a thin running back room and undersized linemen, Chantler and his staff embraced adaptability, designing a mismatch-driven scheme that maximizes space and flexibility. By leveraging motion and smart personnel usage, Auburn has continued to run power and counter concepts effectively—even without traditional setups—earning a reputation as one of the top offenses in their league. Whether you're coaching high school football or diving into scheme study, this episode delivers practical, experience-tested insights on thriving through innovation. Chapters Introduction to Offensive Philosophy Transitioning to a Spread Offense Adapting to Challenges with Empty Sets Success with Undersized Linemen Final Thoughts on Offensive Strategy Off
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The Passing Lab - Shot Packages & Concepts and Protections Derived From Understanding the Defense – Tracy Malone, OC/QB Coach, Sewanee
14/07/2025 Duración: 46minOn this episode of The Passing Lab, presented by Modern Football Technology, we dive into the offensive mind of Coach Tracy Malone, the current Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach at Division III program Sewanee. Coach Malone walks us through his coaching journey—from the high school sidelines of Alabama, Georgia, and Tennessee to the college ranks—highlighting how relationships have consistently opened doors throughout his career. This conversation is a must-listen for any coach aiming to sharpen their offensive philosophy. We break down the nuances of route running, protection schemes, quarterback progressions, and his highly effective “shot package.” Coach Malone also shares valuable insights on play-action design, the importance of spacing, and how to manipulate defensive looks through tempo and alignment. This episode blends coaching strategy with personality, making it as entertaining as it is informative. Chapters From High School to College Coaching Dreams The Importance of Relatio
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Sprint-Based Football - Building Faster, Stronger Athletes – Nick Micetich, Strength & Conditioning Coach, Minooka, IL
13/07/2025 Duración: 01h03minOn this episode of Sprint-Based Football, Tony Holler sits down with Nick Micetich, the dynamic strength and conditioning coach at Minooka High School. At just 27, Nick has already redefined what high school athletic development looks like—blending science, sprint-based philosophy, and hands-on coaching into a results-driven system. The conversation dives deep into the integration of Reflexive Performance Reset (RPR), data-driven training, and injury prevention strategies that have helped drastically reduce athlete injuries. Nick shares how Minooka's strength program evolved into a school-wide curriculum and why multi-sport participation remains a key to long-term athletic success. From innovative tools like the Shredmill and the Goat Drill to insights on building buy-in, fostering culture, and leveraging social media, this episode is a must-listen for coaches aiming to future-proof their programs. Discover how Nick and his team are not just producing faster athletes—they’re shaping smarter, more resilient