September 19, 2025

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)

41 minutes

On 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 while minimizing strain, and reflects on communication, staff collaboration, and balancing coaching demands with family life. To view Pat Ruley's alignment periods on video visit the Coach and Coordinator Youtube Page: Pat Ruley Alignment Period .

Together, these conversations provide a comprehensive look at how today’s coaches are innovating—whether in red zone execution, defensive teaching philosophies, or practice methodologies—while staying grounded in core coaching principles.

Chapters

Introduction with Logan and John

Junior Collins on Red Zone Strategy

Practice Techniques & Execution at Mount Union

Mentorship from Coach Karras & Coaching Philosophy

Ryan Cortez: Mastering Fundamentals & “Grip It and Rip It”

Building a Philosophy of Learning and Teaching

Pat Ruley on Practice Efficiency at Rowan University

The Alignment Period & Maximizing Reps

Communication, Technique, and Staff Collaboration

Balancing Coaching, Game Strategy, and Family Life

Recognizing Contributions Across the Staff

Closing Thoughts and Recognition

Connect on X:

Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski

John Snell: @jsnellbwfb

Logan Hansen: @LogHanRatings

Junior Collins: @JuNiOrC315

Ryan Cortez: @CoachCortez53

Pat Ruley: @FollowTheRuless

Presented by Tully — the perfect tool for high school and Division III programs. Tully helps coaches track readiness, performance, and player development so teams can stay strong and confident deep into the season.

Learn more at tully.app

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