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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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
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Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week - Building Success from All Sides: Offensive, Defensive, and Head Coaching Insights - Justin Clark(OC), Dan Bauder (DC), Joe Palka (HC)
12/09/2025 Duración: 47minOn this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week presented by Tully, hosts Logan Hansen and John Snell sit down with three standout coaches to explore the philosophies and strategies shaping their programs. First, Justin Clark, OC at North Carolina Wesleyan, shares how simplicity and adaptability drive his offensive approach. From emphasizing a run-first philosophy to balancing the run-pass ratio, Clark highlights the importance of communication, selfless teamwork, and tailoring game plans to personnel. Next, Dan Bauder, DC at Wisconsin–Platteville, breaks down his “same as teaching” philosophy—helping players retain strategies through consistent language and teaching methods. He explains how adapting to different learning styles, organizing walkthroughs, and creating “organized chaos” on defense fuel his team’s success. Finally, Joe Palka, HC at Adrian College, offers his perspective on practice structure and team culture. Palka emphasizes continuous player development, compet
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National Coach of the Week - Fast, Precise and Fun: Building Blanco Football - Kent Walker, HC, Blanco HS (TX)
11/09/2025 Duración: 20minOn this episode of National Coach of the Week presented by Modern Football Technology, Kent Walker, HC, Blanco HS shares his philosophy on building a strong football program centered around discipline, speed, and collaboration. Walker highlights the team’s growth from their first game to the second, emphasizing the Slot-T offense and the precision required to run it effectively. He explains how tempo and speed drive their offensive strategy, while carefully structured practice procedures keep players safe and engaged. Throughout the conversation, Coach Walker highlights the importance of staff buy-in, attention to detail, and community support in shaping a positive football culture. His approach blends fun, precision, and purpose, making Blanco’s program a model for how high school football can be both competitive and deeply rewarding. Chapters Introduction to Coach Kent Walker Offensive Growth and Team Development Practice Philosophy and Safety Measures Fast-Paced Offensive Procedures At
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Next move - From the Ground Up: Building from the Bottom Up and Breaking into the College Level - Marcus Perkins, Corners Coach, Texas College
10/09/2025 Duración: 09minOn this episode of Next Move, presented by Coach Portal, host Keith Grabowski sits down with Marcus Perkins Jr., Corners Coach at Texas College, to explore the rewarding journey from youth coaching to the college level. Through real stories and honest insights, Perkins highlights the importance of patience, relationship-building, and embracing the coaching process. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring coaches at the beginning of their journey, offering a clear look at the path, challenges, and mindset needed to grow from the ground up. Perkins delivers both encouragement and practical advice for those ready to do the work and build a lasting career in the game. Chapters From Youth Fields to College Coaching Building Relationships in Coaching The Importance of Patience and Process Advice for Aspiring Coaches Connect on X: Keith Grabowski - @CoachKGrabowski Marcus Perkins Jr. - @CoachPerkinsM Get in the Coach Portal: Sign up for your free 6-month trial today with the code CCPOD
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Your Call - Unlocking Potential: Coaching with a Big Toolbox - Keith Riggs, Former HC, Jenks HS (OK)
09/09/2025 Duración: 10minOn this episode of Your Call presented by The Headset App, host Keith Grabowski is joined by Keith Riggs, Former HC at Jenks HS (OK), to discuss his coaching philosophy and approach to athlete development. Riggs emphasizes the importance of having a “big toolbox” of strategies on both offense and defense, and how selecting the right tool at the right moment can influence the outcome of a game. He explains how simplifying complex concepts and presenting them in a relatable way helps athletes better understand the game and perform at a higher level. From zone blitz strategies to building core concepts athletes can consistently apply, Riggs illustrates how intentional teaching can maximize player potential and drive team success. This conversation highlights the balance between strategy, teaching, and athlete development, offering coaches practical insights for building smarter, more adaptable teams. Chapters The Toolbox Concept in Coaching Teaching Strategies for Success Simplifying Comple
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Game Planning Tips: Anticipating Calls, Tendencies & Timing - Keith Grabowski
08/09/2025 Duración: 12minIn this episode, Keith Grabowski shares insights from his Sunday newsletter, featuring Joe Loth, Head Coach at Southern Connecticut State, who discusses effective play selection and game planning. Wes Goodwin, LB Coach at Oklahoma, outlines structured game week preparation focused on efficiency in the defensive game plan, while Jeff Simmons, Special Teams Coordinator at Carnegie Mellon highlights the importance of film prep for special teams, specifically blocking kicks. Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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Your Call - Reviving St. Francis Football: Building Belief, Culture, and Leadership - Josh Lindke, Head Coach, Toledo St. Francis (OH)
05/09/2025 Duración: 15minOn this episode of Your Call presented by the Headset App, Josh Lindke, Head Coach at Toledo St. Francis, shares his inspiring journey of leadership and resilience. Taking over a program that had six head coaches in just five years, Lindke faced the daunting challenge of reviving a struggling football team. He discusses the “trial by fire” of stepping into the role, the importance of culture and belief in transforming a program, and why fit matters more than anything in coaching. Lindke reflects on his transition from a successful tenure at Otsego to leading St. Francis, and how persistence, leadership, and a positive daily outlook have breathed new life into the program. Chapters Introduction to Coaching Journey Transitioning from Assistant to Head Coach Challenges of Coaching a Struggling Program Building Belief and Culture in a New Program Transforming St. Francis Football Looking Ahead: The Future of St. Francis Football Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Josh Lin
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National Coach of the Week - Coaching Through Rivalries: Preparation, Pressure, and Community - Gary Swenson, Head Coach, Valley HS (IA)
04/09/2025 Duración: 26minOn this episode of National Coach of the Week presented by Modern Football, host Keith Grabowski sits down with Gary Swenson, Head Coach at Valley High School, to discuss the unique intensity of rivalry games in high school football. They dive into the emotional impact these games have on players and communities, the strategic preparation required by coaches, and the importance of moving forward after the final whistle—win or lose. Swenson also shares insights on the challenges of facing rivals multiple times in a season, the decisive role of special teams in game mechanics, and how routine and fundamentals help players thrive under pressure. This episode highlights not only the competitive spirit of high school football but also its deeper role in fostering school pride and community connection. Chapters Introduction to Rivalry and Season Start The Emotional Impact of Rivalry Games Preparation Strategies for High-Stakes Games Moving On After a Rivalry Game Facing a Rival Again: Adjustmen
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Next Move - Steps to Bridge Your Career from HS to College Football - Brandon Linney, RC/RB Coach, Bryant University
03/09/2025 Duración: 11minOn this episode of Next Move, presented by Coach Portal, Keith Grabowski sits down with Brandon Linney, Recruiting Coordinator and RB Coach at Bryant University, to explore the real path behind coaching success. From his early days coaching high school football to making the leap into the college ranks, Brandon shares a candid look at the journey—emphasizing the impact of relationships, mentorship, and consistently adding value to every staff you join. The conversation offers practical insights into recruiting, networking, and the mindset shift needed to transition from high school to college coaching. Whether you're aiming to grow professionally or lead your athletes more effectively, this episode delivers actionable takeaways on work ethic, teaching philosophy, and career progression. It’s a must-listen for any coach ready to take the next step with purpose and persistence. Chapters The Journey of Coaching: From High School to D1 Building Value and Relationships in Coaching Overcoming Challeng
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The Art of Practice - Mastering Efficiency: Innovative Practice Strategies, Competition, Communication, and Technology - Patrick Walsh, Head Coach, Serra HS (CA)
02/09/2025 Duración: 21minOn this episode of the Art of Practice presented by GoRout, Keith Grabowski sits down with Patrick Walsh Head Coach of Serra High School to explore how efficiency and innovation can transform football practices. Drawing from his own experiences, Walsh explains how effective practice structures not only maximize time but also create a competitive environment that mirrors real game scenarios. He shares insights on managing two-way players, the value of starting practices with team activities to set the tone, and the importance of strong communication among the coaching staff. The conversation also highlights how technology—tools like Hudl and GoRout—has revolutionized practice management, streamlining organization and boosting player engagement. Chapters Introduction to Efficient Practice Strategies Structuring Practice for Success Competing in Practice: Simulating Game Scenarios Managing Two-Way Players Effectively The Importance of Communication in Coaching Leveraging Technology for P
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National Coach of the Week - Rod Sherman, Orange Lutheran HS (CA)
28/08/2025 Duración: 21minOn this episode of National Coach of the Week, presented by Modern Football Technology, Orange Lutheran High School (CA) Head Coach Rod Sherman reflects on his unique journey into coaching and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Despite having no background as a football player, Sherman’s path shows how leadership, consistency, and personal growth are essential to creating a lasting impact both on and off the field. He shares insights on balancing family life with the demands of coaching, the value of feedback in driving improvement, and how traveling for competitions creates meaningful memories for players. Sherman also discusses the pressures coaches face to meet expectations, the importance of embracing a growth mindset, and how technology and mental health awareness are reshaping the modern game. Chapters Introduction to Coach Rod Sherman Rod Sherman's Unique Coaching Journey Traveling for a National Stage Leadership and Leading from a Full Cup Balancing Personal Life an
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Next Move - Owning the Role: Growth and Grit as a Student Assistant - Jacob McDaniel, Student Assistant, Oklahoma
27/08/2025 Duración: 07minOn this episode of Next Move, presented by Coach Portal, host Keith Grabowski sits down with Jacob McDaniel, a student assistant at the University of Oklahoma, to discuss the critical role that growth, time management, and relationship-building play in the early stages of a coaching career. Jacob shares his perspective on how young coaches and student assistants can stand out in competitive environments by being proactive, consistent, and intentional in their development. From taking detailed notes to understanding the broader vision of a program, this episode offers practical insights for anyone looking to turn opportunity into long-term success in coaching. Chapters Introduction to Growth and Learning as a Student Assistant Setting Yourself Apart in a Competitive Environment Building Relationships and Understanding the Bigger Picture Connect on X: Keith Grabowski - @CoachKGrabowski Jacob McDaniel - @JaKeLivin12 Get in the Coach Portal: Sign up for your free 6-month trial today with