Usa Football Coach And Coordinator Podcast

In recent weeks, we have looked at several different approaches to wrapping up your season and moving your program, unit, or position group ahead, as well as improving yourself professionally for next season. In this episode, we look at what some coaches like to refer to as AOI, or Areas of Improvement. We sit down with four coaches to discuss how they prioritize areas for improvement and the comprehensive approaches involved when analyzing various factors. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Chris Softley, Head Coach, Lubbock Christian School Dan Carrel, Co-Defensive Coordinator, Coastal Carolina Grant Caserta, Linebackers Coach, Ferris State Brett Arkelian, Special Teams Coach, Fresno State Follow All We Are Doing: Visit CoachandCoordinator.com to listen to the entire library of episodes in The Season. Follow us on Twitter/X @CoachKGrabowski. Sign-up for our weekly newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The season wrap-up is a crucial aspect of coaching that allows coaches to reflect on the past season, gather feedback, and make plans for improvement. It provides an opportunity to assess the team's performance, identify areas of strength and weakness, and set the foundation for the next season. In this episode, three coaches share tips for an effective season wrap-up that can make a significant difference in a team's success and can serve as a valuable learning experience for both coaches and players. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Levi Nelson, Positive Coaching Alliance Pete Shinnick, Head Coach, Towson University Randy Jackson, Long-Time Texas High School Coach Show Notes: Coaching Philosophy: LEAD Get-To List for Offseason Meeting with Assistant Coaches Evaluating Assistant Coaches Taking Stock of the Season Rallying Cry for the Next Season Meeting with Outgoing and Rising Seniors Reflecting and Connecting the Dots Coaches' Autopsy and Feedback Follow All We Are Doing: Visit CoachandCo

As the season comes to a close, coaches face the critical task of evaluating the performance of their defense and deciding what to do next. This postseason evaluation is a crucial process that involves analyzing various aspects of the team's defensive performance and preparing for the upcoming season. In this episode, four coaches look at their data, determine what went well and what needs improvement, analyze personnel, and have a plan for research and development to evolve the defense. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Eric Kasperowicz, Head Coach, Mars High School (PA) Jason Bornn, Head Coach, Saugus High School (CA) John Rice, Defensive Coordinator, San Jacinto High School (CA) Dante Bartee, Analyst, University of Oregon Show Notes: Analyzing Defensive Statistics Assessing Strengths and Weaknesses Adapting to Personnel and Adjustments for the Following Year Evaluating Big Plays, Tackling, and Hustle Providing Resources for Coaches to Self-Direct Their Offseason Learning Evaluating Teaching Me

The offseason usually begins with the challenge of striking a balance between preserving successful elements of the previous season and introducing new schemes, strategies, and tactics for the next season. This delicate balance is essential for the growth and success of our teams. By staying true to the team's core beliefs and values, collaborating with defensive coaches, and being open to innovative ideas, coaches ensure continuity while fostering growth and adaptation. It's essential to prioritize elements that are truly applicable to the team and to become experts in those aspects, rather than succumbing to the temptation of wholesale scheme changes. In this episode, three coaches share their approaches to offseason study that lead to strong and resilient teams capable of adapting to the evolving landscape of our game. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Kyle Ohradzansky, Offensive Coordinator, University of Findlay Steven Ciocci, Run Game Coordinator and OL Coach, Bryant University Kyle Segler, Offensiv

In this episode from our archives, Eli Drinkwitz, head coach at the University of Missouri, shares how he implements a pro-tempo style of offense to attack opposing defenses. Coach Drinkwitz focuses on competition, trust, respect, and enjoying the journey at Missouri. The Tigers are having an outstanding season in 2023, which after listening or re-listening to this episode comes as no surprise. Show Notes: Desire to Become a Head Coach Pillars of Football at Missouri Offensive Philosophy Starting Off Fast on Offense Using a Sugar Huddle Pre-Snap Movement Weekly Game Plans Matching the Defense with Your Offense Follow Coach Drinkwitz on Twitter/X @CoachDrinkwitz. Follow All We Are Doing: Visit CoachandCoordinator.com to listen to the entire library of episodes in The Season. Follow us on Twitter/X @CoachKGrabowski. Sign-up for our weekly newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode from our archives, we delve into the topic of player self-evaluations. These essential tools for understanding and developing players provide valuable insights into their perceptions, attitudes, and goals, allowing coaches to tailor their coaching approach to individual needs. Coach Keith Grabowski shares all the questions and survey items that have benefitted his teams plus the significance of player self-evaluations and the impact they can have on a team's development. To receive and download a copy of Keith's evaluation tool, sign up for our Weekly Tips Sheet Newsletter. We will distribute the player survey in next week's issue. Show Notes: Self-Evaluation of the Player Using a 1-10 Scale Football Preparation Promoting the Program Social Behavior Attitude Passion for the Game Communication Punctuality Being a Good Teammate Dependability Rest and Sleep Diet Toughness Leadership Typical Contact Information on the Player Information on Position, Physical, Classroom, and Other

In the postseason, the pressure to perform at your best becomes even more intense. Coaches and players alike need to be mentally and physically prepared to navigate the challenges of playoff and championship weeks. In this episode, three playoff-experienced coaches teach the importance of maintaining a heightened level of consistency while preparing for these crucial moments. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Eric Marty, Offensive Coordinator, Michigan Panthers Scotty Walden, Head Coach, Austin Peay Mike Elder, Head Coach, Avon High School (OH) Show Notes: Emphasize the Urgency of the Situation Stay in the Moment Elevate the Effort Level Treat Every Opponent and Game with the Same Level of Preparation Maintain a Consistent Approach without Adding Unnecessary Pressure Focus on Meticulous Details Keep Practices Short Prevent Over-Preparation Develop Future Players Follow All We Are Doing: Visit CoachandCoordinator.com to listen to the entire library of episodes in The Season. Follow us on Twitt

In the high-stakes weeks of the playoffs or championship games, effective game planning and scouting techniques play crucial roles in determining a team's success. Doing a thorough job allows coaching staffs to understand their team's tendencies and opponent’s tendencies, as well as make adjustments as needed. This approach helps maintain clarity for their players and ensures they can perform at their best without being overwhelmed by constant changes in strategy. In this episode, our guests emphasize the importance of self-scouting and staying true to their team's identity while also being mindful of their opponent's tendencies. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Morgan Scalley, Defensive Coordinator, University of Utah Mike Judy, Head Coach, Smyrna High School (DE) Follow All We Are Doing: Visit CoachandCoordinator.com to listen to the entire library of episodes in The Season. Follow us on Twitter/X @CoachKGrabowski. Sign-up for our weekly newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.f

While wrapping up a season, evaluation and analysis play crucial roles in identifying both the strengths and weaknesses of your offense and defense. Coaches and analysts strive to gain a true picture of their team's performance, allowing them to make informed decisions for improvement. Getting a true picture of an offense’s or defense's strengths and weaknesses is a multifaceted process that involves statistical analysis, tactical evaluation, and emphasis on fundamentals. By utilizing these methods, coaches gain valuable insights into their unit's performance to make decisions for improvement. This comprehensive approach allows you to identify patterns, adjust tactics, and foster a culture of accountability. As the offseason progresses, these evaluations lay the groundwork for refining strategies, studying successful offenses or defenses, and focusing on areas that require improvement. With a well-informed evaluation process, coaches lead their units to even greater success in the seasons to come. In this epi

As coaches, we all know leading a team through the playoffs can be an exhilarating, yet demanding, experience. The pressure to perform, the increased responsibilities, and the distractions outside the game can easily derail our focus. However, by implementing effective strategies, we can ensure we stay on track and give our teams the best chance to succeed. In this episode, three coaches share what they learned from their experiences to stay focused and maximize playoff success. Learn about delegating non-game-related responsibilities, maintaining a consistent schedule, and leaving it all on the field. Remember, the playoffs are a rare opportunity, and it is essential to enjoy the journey and savor the moments of triumph. So as you lead your team through the playoffs, stay focused, stay prepared, and most importantly, enjoy the ride. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Cris Reisert, Head Coach, Tiffin University Kirk Fridrich, Head Coach, Union High School (OK) Ty Gower, Defensive Coordinator, Plano West Hi

In this episode from our archives, Coach Keith Grabowski gives us a page out his notebook on trick plays. Trick plays can be fun and valuable tools for a team. They give room for creativity on offense and confusion for opposing defenses. Listen to insight on some of the most popular trick plays and some new ones. This episode supplies coaches with a multitude of ideas that can be implemented as the end of the season approaches. Show Notes: Trick Play Article Oberlin Trick Play History of Philly Special Kevin Kelly’s Approach Skill Components Multiple Player Exchange Exchange to Pass Jump Pass Double Pass Catch and Pitch Throwbacks Specials Categories of Plays Favorite Throwback Don’t Forget the Linemen St. Johnsbury Academy (VT) Tackle Screen Tricks by Procedure How To Practice Trick Plays Circus Circuit Hook & Ladder Heidelberg’s Hook & Ladder How To Plan Trick Plays Know Your Opponent When and Where to Call Trick Plays Set Up a Play That Fits the Game Plan Follow All We Are Doing:

Exit interviews provide a valuable opportunity for coaches to gather feedback from players at the conclusion of a season. This feedback can have a profound impact on coaching methods and strategies, ultimately contributing to team development and success. This commitment to open communication and continuous improvement lays the foundation for successful future seasons and ultimately contributes to long-term growth and achievements of both the team and its players. In this episode, three coaches explore the importance of exit interviews, how they influence coaching approaches, and the benefits they bring to team dynamics and individual player development. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Jonathan Himebauch, Offensive Line Coach, Arlington Renegades Loren Johnson, Highland Springs High School (VA) Siddiq Haynes, Defensive Line Coach, UTSA Show Notes: Give Players Time to Process Their Emotions Include Feedback on Scheduling, Installation, and Daily Routine Goal Sheets and Personality Tests to Understa

Maintaining focus during postseason weeks is essential for coaches and players to perform their best and make the most of their achievements. As coaches, we understand the immense pressure that comes with postseason games. It is crucial to not only instruct players to remain focused but also equip them with practical tools to do so. In this episode, we explore effective strategies for keeping athletes focused during postseason weeks. These techniques include implementing mistake rituals, maintaining a consistent approach, and minimizing distractions. Additionally, we discuss the significance of routine in enhancing performance, the importance of over-communication with parents during critical moments, and the detrimental effects of creating unnecessary pressure. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Levi Nelson, Positive Coach Alliance Chris Kappas, Head Coach, Louisville High School (OH) Jeremy Hawkins, Run Game Coordinator and DL Coach, Eastern Kentucky Randy Jackson, Texas High School Coach Show Notes:

As we turn our focus to the postseason, we start with one of its most critical aspects – game planning. Game planning in the postseason requires a meticulous and well-rounded approach. By staying focused on main objectives, being prepared for adjustments, and utilizing clues for what the opponent is about to do, coaches develop effective strategies to counter opponents' strengths. The ability to adapt quickly and provide players with information ensures a team is well-prepared to face any challenges that arise during playoff games. In this episode, three coaches share strategies for effective game planning in the postseason. They address what an opponent does best, planning for contingencies, and finding clues to help your position players. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Todd Drury, Defensive Coordinator, Western Illinois Josh Herring, QB Coach, Lassiter High School (GA) Deonte Gibson, Defensive Line Coach, Youngstown State Show Notes: Stay Focused on the Main Thing Don't Chase Unnecessary Rabbit T

From our archives, we revisit a conversation with Rob Everett, currently an analyst at Wisconsin, formerly the TE coach of the AAF’s Memphis Express and the defensive coordinator at Bridgewater College. In this episode, Coach Everett shares his philosophies and ideas for giving your team a late-season advantage. He specifically discusses different strategies for dissecting opponent film that can give your team the edge going into the playoffs. Follow All We Are Doing: Visit CoachandCoordinator.com to listen to the entire library of episodes in The Season. Follow us on Twitter/X @CoachKGrabowski. Sign-up for our weekly newsletter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we hit the late season, we face the challenge of keeping our players motivated and focused. Whether it's competing for a championship or struggling to salvage a disappointing season, maintaining a positive atmosphere is crucial for success. In this episode, we explore strategies utilized by four coaches to keep players motivated during the late season. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Dan Carrel, Co-Defensive Coordinator and LB Coach, Coastal Carolina Jordan Hogan, Offensive Assistant, San Francisco 49ers Jonathan Himebacuh, Offensive Line Coach, Arlington Renegades Tyler Roehl, Offensive Coordinator, North Dakota State Show Notes: Emphasize Team Culture and Why Players Love the Game Maintain Motivation Through Strong Partnerships Between Coaches and Players Always Be Positive Start Meetings with Music and Casual Conversation Focus on Daily Wins Acknowledge Player Efforts Spend Time Together Outside the Practice Facility Be the Same Person Every Day Have a Growth Mindset, Discipline, Accou

As the season progresses into the late stages, teams face unique challenges in maintaining their performance levels and motivation. And coaches play pivotal roles in ensuring players remain sharp and focused on achieving their goals. In this episode, three coaches delve into their strategies for navigating the late season successfully and keeping teams performing at their best. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Morgan Scalley, Defensive Coordinator, University of Utah Chris Softley, Head Coach, Lubbock Christian School (TX) Mike Elder, Head Coach, Avon High School (OH) Show Notes: Prevent Complacency and Distractions Remind Players That Every Game Is a One-Week Season Instill Belief That Each Game Carries Equal Weight Reflect on Past Experiences Understand the Type of Team You Have Equip Players with Tools for Success Use Psychology and Positive Reinforcement Keep the Team Physically Sharp Develop Depth Follow All We Are Doing: Visit CoachandCoordinator.com to listen to the entire library of

In the late season, special teams face different challenges than in the earlier parts of the year. These considerations include personnel management, practice workload, and maintaining positive morale within the team. By carefully addressing these aspects, coaches optimize special teams performance and increase the chances of success in the late-season games. In this episode, three special teams coaches share important considerations for managing these units during the last weeks of the regular season and into the playoffs. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Charlie Coiner, Retired NFL Coach Bobby April, Two-Time NFL Special Teams Coach of the Year Brett Arkelian, Special Teams Coach, Fresno State University Show Notes: Charlie Coiner Late-Season Special Teams Considerations Building Depth and Managing Personnel Incorporating Fakes and Practice Strategies Bobby April Adjusting Practice Techniques for the Late Season Weather Conditions and Game Planning Balancing Player Workload and Starters on Sp

As the season progresses, coaches and coordinators must ensure their defensive units remain sharp and perform at their best. The late season brings unique challenges, such as maintaining fresh and game-ready players, managing injuries, and countering opponents who are familiar with our team’s tendencies. In this episode, we explore three key strategies to navigate the late season successfully and keep defenses in battle rhythm. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Todd Drury, Defensive Coordinator, Western Illinois John Mumford, Former NFL Defensive Line Coach Vince DiGaetano, Defensive Assistant, Fordham University Show Notes: Todd Drury Adjusting Practice to Stay Fresh and Healthy Focusing on Stance, Technique, and Visual Keys Defending Opponents and Tailoring Practice John Mumford Managing Player Reps and Developing Depth Reducing Heavy Contact and Practice Time Tracking Reps, Player Health, and Building Confidence Vince DiGaetano Analyzing Opponents and Self-Scouting Predicting Opponent Str

As we progress into the late season, identifying and exploiting the weaknesses of opponents often determines success. To do so requires a comprehensive self-scouting process that enables teams to understand their own tendencies and make necessary adjustments. By analyzing intricate details and nuances, teams can gain a strategic advantage on game day. In this episode, we delve into the importance of self-scouting, the value of exploiting opponent weaknesses, and practical methods for sharing this information effectively. Coaches Featured in This Episode: Scotty Walden, Head Coach, Austin Peay University Dante Bartee, Analyst, University of Oregon Jeremy Hawkins, Run Game Coordinator and DL Coach, Eastern Kentucky University Show Notes: Scotty Walden Self-Scouting and Exploiting Opponent Weaknesses Importance of Self-Scouting and Analyzing Small Details In-Depth Analysis of Alignment and Stance Indicators Varying Strategies to Keep Opponents Guessing Importance of Discipline and Pre-Snap Awareness