Football 360 Show: NIL, D1 recruiting, Transfer portal, Athletic Development, Strength Training.

• Season Wrap-Up

  • Discussion on the end of the high school football season for most players.
  • Reflections on playoff surprises, including unexpected losses and standout performances.

• Offseason Strategy

  • Importance of focusing on recovery and performance improvement during the offseason.
  • Advice for athletes to elevate their profiles through combines, camps, and consistent training.

• Recruiting Updates

  • Insight into the recruiting process for high school athletes, emphasizing strategy and persistence.
  • Navigating coaching changes and the impact of the NCAA transfer portal.
  • Discussion on recent player commitments, including Justin Thurman’s move to Kansas after decommitting from Notre Dame.

• Seven-on-Seven and Skill Development

  • How offseason seven-on-seven leagues help players develop confidence, skills, and competitive edge.
  • Examples of athletes whose performance improved significantly through offseason training.

• Spotlight on Local Talent

  • Highlights of standout athletes like Jack Brown and Ridge James, and their recruiting journeys.
  • Recognition of promising younger players in the Midwest preparing for future opportunities.

• The Reality of Recruiting

  • Challenges for juniors in recruiting as colleges focus on seniors and younger prospects.
  • Advice on staying realistic about school choices and focusing on programs that offer the best fit.

• Importance of Combines and Camps

  • Key offseason events for exposure, including the Elite Football Combine, KC Varsity Combine, and Lindenwood Mega Camp.
  • Importance of attending both large and smaller college camps to connect with coaches at all levels.

• Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) Impact

  • Discussion on the changing dynamics of college recruiting due to NIL deals.
  • Challenges for athletes managing sudden wealth and maintaining focus on long-term goals.

• Offseason Training Is Key: Athletes need a strategic plan combining physical preparation and recruiting exposure.
• Navigating Recruiting Smartly: Focus on schools that align with your goals and prioritize genuine opportunities over prestige.
• Leverage Opportunities: Participating in events like combines and college camps is essential to building relationships and showcasing talent.
• Adapt to the NIL Era: Athletes and families should focus on sustainability and long-term planning when managing NIL opportunities.

• Season Wrap-Up and Offseason Preparation

  • Discussion on the end of high school football for many athletes and the importance of offseason preparation, especially for juniors.

• Lindenwood University’s Big Win

  • Recap of Lindenwood's victory over #6-ranked SEMO, highlighting the role of weather and a solid game plan by Coach Dugard.
  • Notable performances, including versatile quarterback Hoyt Gregory being named Offensive Player of the Year in his conference.

• Missouri (Mizzou) Football Recruiting Challenges

  • Discussion on Mizzou’s struggles to attract top in-state talent, with many elite players committing to out-of-state programs.
  • Hosts reflect on the impact of recruiting collectives and personality-driven recruitment approaches.

• The Recruiting Journey for High School Athletes

  • Insights on offers and the mental challenges for athletes when recruiting momentum slows after early offers.
  • Hosts share advice on maintaining focus, working hard, and not becoming complacent after early interest.

• Commitment to Development

  • Emphasis on continued improvement: examples of players like Graham Faust and Brett Ottensmeyer, whose performances have shown clear progression from sophomore to junior year.

• Realistic Goals in Football

  • Importance of understanding the football journey, with most high school players not advancing to college level and many college players not reaching the pros.

• Recruiting Strategies and Fan Perceptions

  • Challenges of recruiting rankings, and how fans often overlook talented players from less-prominent high schools.
  • Hosts provide examples of lesser-known high school players who have succeeded at the college and professional levels.

• Respect and Sportsmanship in High School Football

  • Discussion on the need for mutual respect among players, coaches, and referees.
  • Examples of instances where heated games lead to unsportsmanlike behavior, and how refs & coaches can help control emotions on the field.

• Consistency is Crucial: Success in recruiting requires consistent hard work and patience, even when early offers slow down.
• Respect in the Game: Emphasis on a balanced respect among coaches, referees, and players to maintain a positive sports environment.
• Talent Can Be Overlooked: Players from smaller programs can still succeed with the right exposure and development.

Football 360 Show

• Introduction of Guests

  • Graham Faust, Class of 2026, wide receiver and safety at MICDS, St. Louis, Missouri.
  • Brett Ottensmeyer, Class of 2026, quarterback at Parkway West High School, St. Louis, Missouri.

• Focus on the Recruiting Process

  • Discussion on the path to college football and the recruiting experiences of both players.
  • Emphasis on real-life insights from high school athletes currently navigating recruitment.

• Guest Player Stats and Backgrounds

  • Graham Faust: Impressive stats for the year, including 33 receptions, over 350 receiving yards, and five touchdowns.
  • Brett Ottensmeyer: Completed 224 of 338 attempts, with 2,484 passing yards, 22 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions.

• Physical Development as a Key Recruiting Factor

  • Growth spurts and weight gain challenges as critical in recruitment.
  • Colleges look for certain heights and weights in prospective players; both athletes shared their growth journey.

• Challenges in Getting Recognized

  • The pressure and frustration of seeing peers receive offers, as well as strategies to stay motivated.
  • Insight into how college coaches evaluate and what they look for in players beyond stats.

• Offseason Preparation

  • Training routines, including weightlifting, throwing practice, and the importance of seven-on-seven leagues.
  • Balancing multiple sports and the impact of a supportive coaching staff.

• Spring Football and the College Camp Circuit

  • Importance of participating in spring evaluations and summer camps.
  • Discussion of the “Lindenwood Mega Camp,” where both players received initial offers from Miami of Ohio.
  • Strategies for maximizing exposure at college camps.

• Securing and Managing College Offers

  • Offers from Miami of Ohio as a confidence boost and insight into how offers are typically extended.
  • The significance of keeping a broad perspective and not being discouraged by peers’ offers.

• Advice for Aspiring College Football Players

  • Importance of consistency in training and showcasing skills.
  • Value of persistence, patience, and open communication with coaches.

• Matt Bierrmann’s advice on staying grounded and committed to long-term goals.
• Tips for families and athletes: focus on realistic goals, consistent training, and making connections within the college recruiting landscape.

The Football 360 Show, Episode 58:

• Weather Discussion: Unseasonably warm October temperatures impact football game conditions, with hosts noting windy games can be challenging, especially for quarterbacks.

• End of Youth Football Season: Some leagues extend into November, but hosts discuss concerns about youth teams playing too many games, emphasizing the need for rest and player safety.

• Scheduling and Officiating Challenges: Teams face scheduling issues, with games often starting hours late due to officials arriving late or game delays. Hosts discuss the impact on teams’ pregame routines and stress the importance of scheduling consistency.

• Youth Sportsmanship and Parental Conduct: Hosts highlight concerns about unsportsmanlike behavior among youth teams, parents, and coaches, noting how poor conduct undermines the experience for young athletes.

• Off-Season Training Philosophy: Hosts encourage taking a break post-season to recover before starting off-season training, advising against combines or showcases right after the season to prevent injury and burnout.

• Elite Football Combine Announcement:

  • The Elite Combine is set for March 8, featuring professional coaches and facilities.
  • Registration is open on elitefootballcombine.com, and spots are expected to fill quickly.

• Upcoming Middle School Combine: Scheduled for February 17 at the St. Louis Athletic Center, offering a developmental opportunity for younger players to assess their skills.

• Planning for College Football: Hosts advise high school athletes to be mindful about preparing for college by focusing on size, speed, and strength, stressing the importance of precise, tech-driven training programs.

The Football 360 Show, Episode 57:

• Location Change for Missouri High School Championships:

  • Starting next year, the state championships will move to St. Joseph, Missouri (Missouri Western), instead of the Edward Jones Dome in St. Louis.
  • Discussed the challenges and long travel distances for teams, particularly those from St. Louis.

• Discussion on Broadcasting: The hosts lament Missouri's current lack of high-quality state championship broadcasts, contrasting it with Illinois, which does a better job in game-day production.

• Youth Football League Insights:

  • Focus on a unique league structure using a point system to determine winners, with some divisions already clinched before the last game.
  • Reflections on how winning and sportsmanship are taught differently today compared to years ago, with an emphasis on building skills and handling adversity.

• Sportsmanship Concerns: A discussion on poor sportsmanship at various levels of football, including youth leagues. Concerns were raised about the increasing trend of taunting and disrespect, contrasting it with moments of respect between top athletes after games.

• Adversity and Growth in Youth Football:

  • The hosts emphasize the importance of teaching players how to handle adversity, whether they win or lose, and how that helps them grow both on and off the field.

• Parental and Coaching Conduct: A segment focusing on bad behavior from parents and coaches in youth football, with some coaches and parents escalating conflicts unnecessarily.

• Impact of Ego in Competition: The dangers of letting ego dictate decisions, such as unnecessary plays that could lead to injuries late in games.

• Football-filled weekend:

  • Kicked off on Thursday with high school, middle school, and college football action.
  • Notable college games:
    • Ohio State vs. Oregon – a standout matchup.
    • Florida vs. Tennessee – another thrilling game.
    • Colorado vs. Kansas – intense competition.
    • LSU vs. Ole Miss – went into overtime, played in a massive, electric stadium.

• LSU’s Death Valley stadium:

  • Holds over 100,000 fans.
  • Unique freestanding structure, towering up to 11-12 stories high.
  • Challenging parking and logistics due to its campus location.
  • Fan experience was incredible, with traditions and energy that left a lasting impression.

• Discussion of college football traditions:

  • SEC schools like Alabama, Ole Miss, and Auburn maintain long-standing, intense traditions.
  • Mizzou is building its presence in the SEC but still has work to do to match these legacies.

• Mizzou’s win over UMass:

  • A solid victory, providing opportunities for younger players like Williams Nueneri, who earned his first sack, and Talon Chandler, who saw some playing time.
  • Smart scheduling after the tough Texas A&M game, allowing everyone to contribute.

• Nostalgic memories of past bowl games:

  • Stories from the Holiday Bowl involving Mizzou, including a game against Colorado State, brought back memories.
  • Reflection on how the preparation and scheduling for bowl games have changed over the years.

• NCAA guidelines on athlete associations: Former athletes or coaches often can't stay affiliated with schools due to NCAA rules, but smart programs find ways to get trusted people to provide skill development.

• Skill development:

  • Real, in-depth training that can elevate teams isn’t always happening in school practices due to time constraints.
  • Offseason training sees more participants, but the players who commit to in-season work show noticeable improvements.

• Football IQ gap:

  • Many high school players lack basic football understanding, such as coverage recognition, situational awareness, and how to watch game film.
  • Coaches often struggle to address this due to limited practice time.

• Importance of knowing the rules:

  • Players and even some coaches sometimes fail to thoroughly understand the rulebook.
  • Situational awareness and understanding rules can win games, as seen in the Ohio State-Oregon game where a smart substitution sealed the game.

• High football IQ players:

  • Some players, like Carney’s middle linebacker Theo Grace, stand out for their knowledge of the game. Grace’s intelligence on the field complements his physical skills and will take him far in college football.

• Football is a complex game:

  • It’s much more complicated than many assume, with layers of strategy, skills, and rules, which players need to master to stand out.

• Talent vs. IQ:

  • Elite athletes like Jadavian Clowney might rely more on physical gifts, but combining that talent with a strong football IQ (like Grant Wistrom) makes a player unstoppable.

• Recruiting strategy:

  • Players should leverage social media to attract college attention. Posting visits and updates on recruiting visits can spur interest from other programs.
  • Schools often act as copycats in recruiting—once one program shows interest, others quickly follow.

• Personal branding:

  • It's important for athletes to manage their personal brand by updating game film and maintaining a social media presence to draw attention from recruiters.

• Recruitment stories:

  • Players with no social media can sometimes receive big offers unexpectedly, but consistent visibility is key to growing interest from schools.

• Illinois vs. Purdue game:

  • Discussed how recruiting competition and coaching networks play out in college football, particularly between Illinois and Purdue, whose staffs have strong ties.

• Parkway North vs. Parkway West game:

  • Parkway North’s win was powered by a slow first half but turned into a scoring battle.
  • Standout players: Antoine Gunn and Dakari Hollis, with Gunn catching the attention of Iowa for a game-day visit. Brett Ottensmeyer threw to the ball well, with Jett Johnson had 2 INTs. 

• Advice for young recruits:

  • Promote yourself: Post your game-day visits and film, as recruiters take notice of players who are gaining attention from other schools.

SHOW RECAP

• Lafayette vs. Eureka: Preview of the "Battle of 109" between two unbeaten teams. Lafayette boasts a talented senior class, while Eureka has a dominant offensive line and rising defensive talent.
• College Football Parity: Discussion on the unpredictable nature of college football, with Vanderbilt's resurgence and Mizzou's recent struggles.
• Mizzou’s Woes: Analysis of Mizzou's loss to Texas A&M, offensive line struggles, and Cody Schrader's absence affecting the team's chemistry.
• Project Rudy and College Football's Future: Discussion on a potential 70-team Super League backed by private equity, expected to reshape college football. This would involve buying out lower-tier contracts and forming a league with only top-tier schools.
• Impact on Lower-Tier Schools: Lower-level schools may struggle as the lion's share of TV money will go to the top teams.
• Transfer Portal and Recruiting: Insight into how the transfer portal has increased parity, the importance of persistence in recruiting, and keeping film updated to attract attention from schools.

Here's a recap of key points discussed in the Football 360 Show:

• Unpredictable Weather in Football: The hosts shared anecdotes about how weather can drastically change between games, mentioning everything from unexpected cold snaps during Halloween to tropical storm remnants affecting a recent game. They emphasized how challenging it is to play, especially with high winds, making passing difficult.

• Importance of Facing Tough Opponents: The hosts discussed the value of competing against teams that take the game as seriously as you do, appreciating the battles that make for better players and better teams, regardless of wins or losses. They highlighted how important it is for young athletes to experience tough, evenly matched competition.

• SEC Dominance in College Football: Alabama and Georgia were a focal point, with discussion around Georgia’s resilience in a tough game against Alabama despite turnovers. The hosts noted how SEC teams, including Tennessee and Missouri, dominate the rankings, showing the depth of talent and competition within the conference.

• Coaching Trees & Mentorship: There was extensive talk about how former players have transitioned into coaching, particularly those from Mizzou and Tennessee, with many now in prominent positions across the NFL and NCAA. This segment highlighted how developing good relationships as a player can lead to future coaching opportunities.

• Player Development Beyond Talent: They discussed how some players, despite having immense talent, may not fully dedicate themselves to becoming the best they can be. Meanwhile, players who may not have the same physical gifts can still find a path in football by working hard, becoming strategic, and developing a passion for the game—particularly in coaching roles.

• Networking and Football Career Paths: Emphasis was placed on the importance of networking and building relationships within football. Whether on the field or transitioning into coaching, the right connections can open doors, even for players who aren’t the star athletes.

• College Recruiting Process & Elite Football Program: The hosts touched on the success of their Elite Football program, discussing the number of players they've helped guide into college and professional football. The program's strong relationships with college coaches help in the recruiting process, making it a trusted source for identifying talent.

• Offensive linemen transitioning to quarterback or other leadership roles in football tend to have a more holistic understanding of the game. Unlike individualistic roles, such as wide receivers or cornerbacks, linemen are forced to consider the full scope of the field and the team’s strategy.

• The coaching profession, especially at lower levels like JUCO (junior college), can be grueling. Coaches often work long hours with little financial reward, sometimes earning what feels like "five cents an hour." This illustrates the passion required for those pursuing coaching careers. Coaches at different levels can put in the same effort, but there is a vast difference in the resources and compensation available to them.

• Aspiring coaches are advised to aim for the highest levels early in their careers if possible. Examples like Kalen DeBoer, who moved from NAIA to become a successful coach in higher college divisions, show that making strategic career moves can pay off. However, it can also be challenging as many coaches get "stuck" at smaller schools (D3 or NAIA), where resources are limited.

• Networking is a crucial element for coaches to rise in the ranks. Whether at conferences or casual meetings, relationships in coaching circles help coaches climb the career ladder and get on winning staffs.

• The conversation shifts to a high-profile Alabama vs. Georgia game. It highlights how Nick Saban left his successor with a well-stocked team, providing a strong foundation to continue Alabama’s dominance. Kirby Smart's Georgia squad put up a good fight, but the unpredictable nature of playing against a new coach and staff added a layer of challenge for Georgia.

• Jalen Milroe, Alabama’s quarterback, seems to have found his stride, impressing even seasoned fans. Although he's smaller than some might expect (around 6'1"), his athleticism and down-to-earth personality make him stand out. His development mirrors the hard work and persistence of some standout recruits.

• Jackson Cantwell, a rising talent with connections to both Georgia and Mizzou, represents the type of athlete many schools covet. Similarly, Miles McVay, another standout player, has developed significantly since his early days, thanks to hard work and perseverance.

• As in coaching, the balance between talent and discipline plays a crucial role. Many athletically gifted players struggle with focus and discipline, which can hold them back. Meanwhile, players with fewer natural gifts often outperform due to their work ethic and concentration.

• A noteworthy topic here is NIL's impact on college football. The case of Matthew Sluka, a UNLV quarterback who reportedly quit over NIL issues, signals a new era in college sports where athletes might make decisions akin to professional athletes. This kind of holdout may become more common as players assess their financial worth in the NIL marketplace.

Bullet-points recap of the key themes discussed on this episode of the Football 360 Show.

• Freak accidents in sports: The more stress athletes put on their bodies, the higher the risk of injuries, especially when they don't rest, sleep, or recover properly.

• Eighth-grade football intensity: Eighth-grade football is particularly intense with players becoming more physically developed and hitting harder, but not all develop the same way.

• Reclassed athletes and physical maturity: Some kids are held back (reclassed), giving them a physical advantage in middle school, which may not translate well to long-term success. Early maturity can mask potential and long-term development issues.

• Athleticism vs. football acumen: There’s a distinction between being a good athlete and a good football player. Athleticism might dominate in youth leagues, but it doesn't guarantee football success without proper development.

• Impact of coaching: Coaching plays a vital role in shaping young athletes. Athletes who rely solely on their athleticism often don't put in the effort to develop core football skills and end up falling behind as they grow older.

• Overhyping young talent: Declaring young athletes as "the next big thing" in middle school can harm their development. It's difficult to predict long-term success based on early athletic dominance.

• The system matters: The system and coaching that athletes are placed in is critical for their development. Playing in schemes that don't challenge or develop their skills can hinder progress, especially for quarterbacks in simple checkdown-heavy systems.

• Physical development progression: The best athletes are those who continue to develop physically and skill-wise beyond middle school. Many athletes peak early, while others, less dominant in middle school, surpass them later due to hard work and proper development.

• Parent expectations: Parents often struggle with seeing their child lose prominence as they transition from middle school to high school. They may blame coaches or fail to see the importance of long-term player development over early success.

• Recruiting vs. team success: Individual athlete development should take precedence over team success in high school. College recruiters focus on individual talent, not on whether a team wins state championships.

• School choice for aspiring athletes: Families need to be careful in selecting the right school or system that fits their child’s abilities and aspirations, ensuring the athlete's long-term growth rather than short-term success.

• Outside training vs. school programs: Athletes in high school systems that discourage outside training often struggle at the college level if they haven’t been exposed to the right developmental systems, particularly in technical positions like offensive linemen.

• Parents as advocates: Ultimately, parents need to advocate for their child's best interests in football development, ensuring they’re placed in systems that fit their skills and long-term goals.

• System fit and playing time: College coaches value playing time and game experience over winning state titles. It's more important for an athlete to get on the field early, even at a smaller program, than to sit on the bench at a powerhouse school.

• Self-Advocacy and Parent Advocacy:

  • Athletes, especially younger ones, need to advocate for themselves in sports, but often struggle when going up against authority figures like coaches or adults, who may not always have their best interests in mind.
  • Parents play a critical role in advocating for their children, but they often don't fully understand their child's abilities or the sports system.

• Recognizing Talent and Bias:

  • Many parents fail to recognize just how good or not-so-good their kids are at sports. It's helpful to get an objective, external perspective from coaches or recruiters who aren't emotionally invested.
  • Sometimes, parents are surprised when their child is seen as talented in a sport they didn’t originally consider, or in a different position than they anticipated.

• Real Examples of Underestimated Talent:

  • Specific anecdotes are shared, like the story of a basketball player who was unexpectedly recognized as a Division I football recruit. His mom didn’t see the potential initially, but validation from a college coach quickly changed that perspective.
  • The experience of an athlete, Rennell Wren, is used to highlight how players can be misjudged based on early impressions (e.g., being labeled as "just a basketball player"), but those who see the full range of athleticism understand their true potential.

• Switching Positions and Realistic Feedback:

  • It’s important for athletes to find the right fit for their skills. Coaches often help by giving honest feedback and guiding athletes to positions where they are more likely to succeed, even if it's not what the athlete or parent originally envisioned.
  • The case of Trevor Trout, who started as a quarterback but found his true potential on the defensive line, is used as an example of how versatility and adaptability can lead to greater success.

• Navigating the Sports System:

  • The system of sports training and recruitment can be complex, and sometimes families believe that a training organization will just say what they want to hear. However, the best organizations provide position-specific, objective feedback about where an athlete fits based on their size and skills, regardless of what the parents or player initially want.

• Realism and Long-Term Success:

  • Ultimately, parents and athletes need to be realistic about where the athlete fits in the competitive sports landscape. Being open to change and adaptable can lead to better outcomes, whether that means switching sports, positions, or changing expectations. Parents often need guidance, and coaches and trainers provide that with honest, sometimes hard-to-hear advice.

• Football Frenzy: Discussion about how time flies during football season with games on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and possibly Sunday.
• Midseason Reflection: Evaluating the season at the two-week mark with only six games left; reflecting on how fast the season is moving and what it means for players.
• High School Football Spotlight: Shoutout to a record-setting high school quarterback performance—13 for 13 with seven touchdowns.
• Execution in Youth Football: Challenges and successes in middle school football, including blocking, protection, and man coverage. Drawing parallels to NFL-level execution.
• Importance of Hard Work: Acknowledging the validation athletes feel when hard work pays off in performance, especially for players who’ve been training since January.

Parenting an Athlete:

• Dealing with Success: The challenge of handling a child’s success in football, keeping things low-key, and focusing on the team effort. Emphasizing the importance of humility in young athletes.

Humbling Aspects of Football:

• Quick Turnaround: Football can humble even the best athletes quickly. Staying focused on improving each week, regardless of last week’s success.
• Maturation of Teams: Noting how some high school teams have standout years, reflecting on new teams that are making waves and perennial powerhouses that continue to excel.

Elite Training Environment:

• Benefits of Training with Older Athletes: How younger players, including quarterbacks, benefit from training with older, more experienced athletes who keep them grounded and focused.
• Locker Room Culture: The importance of older players and coaches keeping younger athletes humble and the camaraderie that builds in competitive environments.

Competitiveness and Training Culture:

• Healthy Competition: Ending training sessions with competitions breeds competitiveness and tests athletes’ mental toughness.
• Avoiding Overconfidence: Warning athletes against showing up to training overconfident without having earned respect. Realities of facing tougher competition in football.

Reality Check in Football:

• True Talent vs. Image: Story of a well-dressed player who looked great but struggled with basic football skills—illustrating how athletic ability and fundamentals always prevail over appearances.
• High-Level Quarterbacks: Acknowledging the scrutiny that high-level quarterbacks like Dylan Duff face. Always being watched and the pressure to perform, similar to NFL athletes like Saquon Barkley.

Rising Stars:

• Highlighting Local Talent: Discussing standout high school players like Brady Davidson and Rocco Marriott, their performances, and how they’re gaining attention from colleges.
• High-Performance Metrics: Metrics like broad jumps, laser-timed 40-yard dashes, and how these numbers catch the attention of college recruiters.

The MAC Football Scene:

• Midwest College Football: Praise for programs like Northern Illinois and Miami of Ohio for consistently producing top talent and competing fiercely despite being in a non-Power 5 conference.
• Impact on College Football Ecosystem: How these schools are integral to the college football landscape and heavily recruit areas like Missouri.

Regional Talent and NFL Influence:

• St. Louis Producing NFL Players: Discussing the impressive number of NFL players from St. Louis (13), and the importance of the region’s development programs in helping players reach the NFL.
• Comparing Development Across Regions: Comparing athlete development in St. Louis to other high-producing areas like Houston and Atlanta, and why some areas may have more developed players coming out of high school.

Final Thoughts:

• Focus on Character: Emphasizing that success in football isn’t just about athletic ability, but also about character, work ethic, and love for the game. Highlighting how finding players who truly love football is key to long-term success.