February 21, 2024

Linebacker Teaching Progressions & Run Fits with Cody Gardner

1 hour 12 minutes

Summary

In this episode, Coach Cody Gardner discusses the linebacker progression and the cross read system. He explains how he developed this system to adapt to the changing landscape of offenses, particularly the prevalence of RPOs. The cross read system involves reading the first step of the offensive player being defended and then verifying the read based on the movement of other players. Coach Gardner also discusses how the system can be applied to different offensive schemes, such as split zone and pistol formations. He emphasizes the importance of teaching and repetition in mastering the cross read system. In this part of the conversation, Coach Cody Gardner discusses the linebacker progression and the importance of teaching fundamentals. He also talks about the benefits of being multiple on defense and how his IT background has influenced his coaching. Additionally, he shares a unique aspect of his program. In this episode, Coach Cody Gardner shares his experiences and insights as a football coach at Corner Canyon High School. He discusses the journey that led him to Corner Canyon and the high expectations that come with coaching at a successful program. He emphasizes the power of connection with his players and the importance of expressing love and appreciation for them. Coach Gardner also talks about refusing to settle for less and the motivation to win a state title. He shares a powerful story about the last ceremony with the seniors and the impact of coaching beyond football.

Takeaways

The linebacker progression involves teaching stance, flutter, mirror step, key step, and different flow reads.

Fundamentals and technique are crucial in developing linebackers.

Being multiple on defense allows for flexibility and adaptability to different offensive schemes.

Coach Gardner's IT background has helped him problem-solve and find innovative solutions in coaching.

A unique aspect of Coach Gardner's program is his emphasis on teaching track and field to his football players. Building strong connections with players is crucial for success as a coach.

Expressing love and appreciation for players can have a profound impact on their lives.

Refusing to settle for less and striving for excellence can drive success.

Coaching goes beyond the X's and O's of football and has a lasting impact on players' lives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:56 Discussion on Linebacker Progression

18:31 Impact of Pistol Formation on Cross Reads

26:23 Adapting the Cross Read to Different Offensive Schemes

29:43 Benefits of the Cross Read System

32:08 Teaching and Repetition in the Cross Read System

33:12 Linebacker Progression

44:44 Teaching Fundamentals

50:26 Being Multiple on Defense

54:31 Coaching Track and Field

01:01:29 IT Background and Coaching

01:03:28 Unique Aspect of the Program

01:04:20 The Journey to Corner Canyon

01:05:17 The Power of Connection

01:06:18 Expressing Love and Appreciation

01:07:47 Refusing to Settle for Less

01:09:21 The Last Ceremony

01:10:42 The Impact Beyond Football

01:11:21 Closing Remarks

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By Kyle Bradburn, Matt Dixon

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