The Board Drill Podcast

Summary

In this episode, Coach Robert Spera discusses the wide zone and inside zone run schemes. He explains the responsibilities of the running backs, quarterbacks, and offensive linemen in executing these plays. Coach Spera emphasizes the importance of being fast and physical in running the wide zone, and highlights the need for decisive and vertical footwork by the offensive linemen. He also discusses the covered and uncovered rules for the offensive linemen and provides insights into game planning and adjustments based on defensive alignments. The episode includes analysis of game clips to illustrate the execution of the wide zone play. In this part of the conversation, Coach Robert Spera discusses the wide zone play and blocking techniques, as well as the inside zone play and its blocking strategies. He also explains the gallop technique for offensive linemen and provides examples of inside zone plays. In this conversation, Coach Robert Spera discusses various aspects of offensive line play, focusing on the wide zone and inside zone running plays. He emphasizes the importance of effective communication and execution among the offensive linemen. Coach Spera also explains how to read and understand the opponent's defense to make the right adjustments. He provides insights into the kick call and the gallop technique used in blocking schemes. Additionally, Coach Spera discusses the lack of shaded nose techniques faced by his team and highlights the ability of his players to maximize their potential despite not having the most talent.

Takeaways

Wide zone and inside zone are effective run schemes that can be run by any team, regardless of size or athleticism.

Running backs should read the first down lineman outside the tackle and make their cut on the fifth step.

Offensive linemen should focus on being decisive and getting vertical, blocking defenders on the angles they find them.

The quarterback's role is to hold at least one defender and make the correct reads and fakes.

Game planning and adjustments are crucial in running the wide zone effectively. Wide zone and inside zone are the primary running plays for the team.

The gallop technique is used to keep offensive linemen square and maintain leverage in the inside zone play.

Communication and coordination among offensive linemen are crucial for successful zone blocking.

Pistol formation provides flexibility and makes it harder for the defense to anticipate the direction of the run play.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Wide Zone and Inside Zone

01:02Physical Downhill Run

03:26Offensive Line Rules

05:24Uncovered Guys

06:22Gallup Technique

09:14Identification System

10:09Tight End Responsibility

11:09Three-Down Front

13:33Communication

14:05Double Teams

16:08Cutbacks and Gallop Technique

19:00Running Against TE Stunts

20:26Gap Exchange

22:24Pistol Formation

24:18Communication and Double Teams

25:43Getting More with Less Talent

Summary

In this episode, Coach Robert Spera discusses the wide zone and inside zone run schemes. He explains the responsibilities of the running backs, quarterbacks, and offensive linemen in executing these plays. Coach Spera emphasizes the importance of being fast and physical in running the wide zone, and highlights the need for decisive and vertical footwork by the offensive linemen. He also discusses the covered and uncovered rules for the offensive linemen and provides insights into game planning and adjustments based on defensive alignments. The episode includes analysis of game clips to illustrate the execution of the wide zone play. In this part of the conversation, Coach Robert Spera discusses the wide zone play and blocking techniques, as well as the inside zone play and its blocking strategies. He also explains the gallop technique for offensive linemen and provides examples of inside zone plays. In this conversation, Coach Robert Spera discusses various aspects of offensive line play, focusing on the wide zone and inside zone running plays. He emphasizes the importance of effective communication and execution among the offensive linemen. Coach Spera also explains how to read and understand the opponent's defense to make the right adjustments. He provides insights into the kick call and the gallop technique used in blocking schemes. Additionally, Coach Spera discusses the lack of shaded nose techniques faced by his team and highlights the ability of his players to maximize their potential despite not having the most talent.

Takeaways

• Wide zone and inside zone are effective run schemes that can be run by any team, regardless of size or athleticism.


• Running backs should read the first down lineman outside the tackle and make their cut on the fifth step.


• Offensive linemen should focus on being decisive and getting vertical, blocking defenders on the angles they find them.


• The quarterback's role is to hold at least one defender and make the correct reads and fakes.


• Game planning and adjustments are crucial in running the wide zone effectively. Wide zone and inside zone are the primary running plays for the team.


• The gallop technique is used to keep offensive linemen square and maintain leverage in the inside zone play.


• Communication and coordination among offensive linemen are crucial for successful zone blocking.


• Pistol formation provides flexibility and makes it harder for the defense to anticipate the direction of the run play.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

00:48 Focus on O-line

03:00 Transition to Wide Zone

05:29 Running Back Responsibilities

07:13 Formation and Quarterback Responsibilities

09:05 Identification and Offensive Line Rules

12:28 Footwork and Second Step

18:11 Covered and Uncovered Rules

21:30 Uncovered Lineman Progression

24:38 Blocking Back and Game Planning

28:13 Clip Analysis: Wide Zone Execution

37:12 Clip Analysis: Progression and Adjustments

42:42 Wide Zone Play and Blocking

50:12 Inside Zone Play and Blocking

01:00:12 Gallop Technique for Offensive Linemen

01:08:25 Examples of Inside Zone Plays

01:20:30 Effective Communication and Execution

01:22:14 Understanding the Opponent's Defense

01:25:12 The Kick Call

01:26:35 Gap Exchange and Backside Safety

01:27:19 The Gallop Technique

01:29:31 Lack of Shaded Nose Techniques

01:31:13 Getting the Most Out of Less Talent

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

Summary

In this episode, head coach Micah Hughes and offensive coordinator Blake Sims from Mount Bethel Christian Academy discuss their program philosophy, which focuses on building relationships with players and emphasizing character development. They also share insights into their practice structure, including the importance of special teams and situational drills. Additionally, they discuss their offensive philosophy, which combines spread and pro-style elements, and highlight their favorite run and pass plays. In this conversation, Coach Micah Hughes discusses his coaching philosophy and unique aspects of his program. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships with players and creating a positive team culture. Coach Hughes also shares insights on using game film as a teaching tool and incorporating trick plays into the offense. The conversation highlights the value of player experience and the role it plays in coaching. Overall, Coach Hughes provides valuable insights into his coaching approach and the success of his program.

Takeaways

• Building relationships with players and focusing on character development are key aspects of a successful program.


• In practice, it is important to prioritize special teams and incorporate situational drills to prepare players for game scenarios.


• An effective offensive philosophy involves playing to the strengths of the players and being adaptable to different personnel.


• Favorite run and pass plays should be identified based on their efficiency and success rate. Building relationships with players is crucial for a successful coaching experience.


• Using game film as a teaching tool can enhance player understanding and execution.


• Incorporating trick plays into the offense can add excitement and keep opponents off balance.


• Creating a positive team culture and emphasizing player development are key aspects of a successful program.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Program Philosophy

03:14 Building Relationships and Character

07:31 Practice Structure and Special Teams

18:42 Situational Practice and Offensive Philosophy

34:05 Favorite Runs and Passes

37:36 Introduction and X's and O's

38:00 Pro Style Offense and Trick Plays

39:05 Using Game Film as Teaching Tool

40:15 Trick Play Period and Incorporating Trick Plays

41:51 Building Relationships with Players

50:57 Player Experience and Coaching Philosophy

55:33 Unique Aspect of the Program

59:02 Importance of Building Relationships

01:02:28 Closing Remarks

Summary

In this episode, Coach Ty Gower discusses various topics related to coaching and football strategy. He debunks common football myths and emphasizes the importance of teaching and adapting in the game. Coach Gower also explains the concept of the Mint Front and how it can be used to defend against modern offensive schemes. He concludes by discussing adjustments to the tight end and different coverage looks. In this part of the conversation, Coach Ty Gower discusses various strategies for creating matchups and generating pressure on defense. He explains the concept of open blitz, where the defense blitzes away from the tight end or the three-man surface. He also talks about using three high safeties and the benefits of self-scouting to make adjustments. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of giving players autonomy and ownership in the game plan. Finally, he discusses the development of third down packages and the use of different presentations to stress the offense. In this conversation, Coach Ty Gower discusses the effectiveness of simulated pressure and the importance of pre-snap presentation. He also explains the concept of pressure packages and how to involve all 11 positions in the defense.

Takeaways

Coaches should be open to learning and adapting in order to stay ahead in the game.

Teaching and coaching are essential in helping players succeed and overcome challenges.

Scheme and situational football play a vital role in defensive success.

The Mint Front can be an effective defensive strategy against modern offensive schemes.

Adjustments to the tight end and coverage looks are important for defensive success. Open blitz can be used to create favorable matchups by blitzing away from the tight end or the three-man surface.

Using three high safeties can provide additional coverage options and help defend against the air raid offense.

Self-scouting is crucial for identifying tendencies and making adjustments to keep the defense unpredictable.

Giving players autonomy and ownership in the game plan can increase their buy-in and confidence.

Developing multiple third down packages with different presentations can stress the offense and create confusion. Simulated pressure and pre-snap presentation can be effective strategies in confusing the offense and creating pressure on the quarterback.

Pressure packages should involve all 11 positions on the defense to keep the offense guessing and prevent them from preparing for a specific blitz.

Coaches should take ownership of their position group and continuously learn and apply knowledge to improve their coaching.

Climbing the coaching ladder requires patience, networking, and being comfortable in your own skin.

Avoid comparing yourself to others and focus on your own growth and development as a coach.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:40 Background and Coaching Journey

06:19 Debunking Football Myths

12:25 Learning Progression and Teaching Methods

22:24 The Mint Front and Defensive Adaptation

32:38 Adjusting to the Tight End and Coverage Looks

36:20 Creating Matchups with Open Blitz

39:13 Using Three High Safeties

41:49 Self-Scouting and Making Adjustments

44:20 Giving Players Autonomy and Ownership

46:09 Developing Third Down Packages

51:02 Creating Matchups with Open Blitz (Part 2)

57:35 Generating Pressure with Three Rushers

01:12:06 Simulated Pressure and Pre-Snap Presentation

01:13:26 Pressure Packages and Involving All 11 Positions

01:14:39 Different Looks and Alignments in Pressure Packages

01:15:35 Coaching Off the Field and Climbing the Coaching Ladder

01:19:09 Coaching Foundations and Taking Ownership

01:20:34 Climbing the Coaching Ladder and Being Comfortable in Your Skin

01:22:40 Learning from Influences and Applying Knowledge

01:25:08 Embracing Challenges and Adversity

01:27:32 Networking and Connecting with Other Coaches

01:32:01 Avoiding Comparison and Being Humble

Summary

Coach Darrell Sutherland shares his insights on building a winning culture in high school football. He emphasizes the importance of hiring good people and giving them the opportunity to contribute to the program. Coach Sutherland believes in developing better young men, as he believes they make better football players. He discusses the core values of his program, such as brotherhood and recognizing and rewarding team-first actions. He also talks about the challenges of sustaining a positive culture and offers advice for young coaches. Coach Sutherland shares the importance of effective communication and creating traditions that honor and serve the community. He also highlights the holistic development of players, focusing on character and life skills. In this conversation, Coach Darrell Sutherland shares his insights and experiences as a high school football coach. He discusses the importance of morning meetings and visual learning in team culture development. He also talks about measuring team culture through post-season surveys and goal meetings. Coach Sutherland offers advice for young head coaches, emphasizing the prioritization of purpose and family. He highlights the significance of being yourself and building relationships with players. The conversation concludes with congratulations to Coach Sutherland on his induction into the FACA Hall of Fame.

Takeaways

Hire good people and give them the opportunity to contribute to the program.

Develop better young men, as they make better football players.

Recognize and reward team-first actions to build a strong culture.

Sustain a positive culture by addressing adversity before it happens and staying focused on the main things.

Adapt communication styles to meet the needs of today's players.

Create traditions that honor and serve the community.

Focus on the holistic development of players, emphasizing character and life skills. Morning meetings and visual learning can be effective in developing team culture.

Post-season surveys and goal meetings are valuable tools for evaluating team culture.

Prioritizing purpose and family is essential for young head coaches.

Being yourself and building relationships with players fosters team bonding.

Recognition and congratulations are given to Coach Sutherland on his induction into the FACA Hall of Fame.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

04:02 The Blueprint of a Winning Culture

15:45 Sustaining a Positive Culture

19:14 Practicing Situational Football

24:02 Adapting to Changes in Team Culture

27:51 Leaving a Lasting Legacy

32:33 Creating Holistic Development

35:32 Morning Meetings and Visual Learning

36:47 Measuring Team Culture

37:24 Post-Season Surveys and Goal Meetings

38:40 Advice for Young Head Coaches

39:09 Prioritizing Purpose and Family

40:24 Being Yourself and Building Relationships

41:08 Parallel Experiences of Coaches

41:52 The Difficulty of Walking Away

43:48 Senior Ceremony and Legacy

46:38 Congratulations and FACA Hall of Fame

Summary

The conversation focuses on the Florida Coaches Coalition and their mission to improve coaching pay in the state. The coalition was founded in December 2021 by Dr. Andrew Ramjit, a former coach and county athletic director. The main proposal of the coalition is to establish a minimum wage for coaches in Florida. The conversation also highlights the current barriers to increasing coaching compensation, including teacher unions and Title IX concerns. The coalition is actively working with the state legislature to bring about policy changes and is gaining support from coaches across the state. The conversation concludes with a call to action for coaches to get involved and support the cause.

Takeaways

The Florida Coaches Coalition is working to improve coaching pay in the state by advocating for a minimum wage for coaches.

Current barriers to increasing coaching compensation include teacher unions and Title IX concerns.

The coalition is actively working with the state legislature to bring about policy changes and is gaining support from coaches across the state.

Coaches are encouraged to get involved and support the cause by visiting the coalition's website and following them on social media.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Mission Statement

01:33 Introduction of the Florida Coaches Coalition

08:22 Proposal for Minimum Wage for Coaches

10:53 Current Barriers to Increasing Compensation

14:11 Legislative and Policy Changes

18:33 Lack of Support from FHSAA

22:03 Need for Unity Among Coaches

25:04 Starting the Change at the State Level

29:30 How to Get Involved and Support the Cause

32:41 Call to Action for Coaches

Takeaways

• Feed the Cats focuses on speed training and performance-based practices.

  
  



• The goal is to make practice the best part of the day and improve overall athleticism.

  
  



• Timing and data collection are important for tracking progress and motivating athletes.

  
  



• Implementing Feed the Cats in football involves integrating speed, strength, and football-specific workouts. Coaches should prioritize continuous learning and personal growth to improve their coaching abilities.

  
  



• Fun in practice should be redefined as intense competition and effort, rather than a relaxed and casual atmosphere.

  
  



• Punishment should be reframed as opportunities for improvement, focusing on changing athletes' mindsets rather than physical exertion.

  
  



• Strength training in the weight room should stay general and not interfere with speed training.

  
  



• Timing is crucial in assessing athletes' performance and identifying any interference in speed training.

  
  



• The Feed the Cats approach can significantly improve athletes' speed and overall performance.

  
  



• Outworking other teams does not necessarily mean working harder, but rather focusing on quality and efficiency in training.

  
  



• Coaches should prioritize the health and well-being of their athletes, creating a culture of love and support.

  
  

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

00:29 What is Feed the Cats?

02:18 Origin of Feed the Cats

03:12 The Problem with Traditional Training Methods

04:11 Making Practice the Best Part of the Day

05:08 The Relationship Between Speed and Health

06:27 Reducing Soft Tissue Injuries

07:37 Timing and Data Collection

08:37 Using Technology for Timing

09:36 Alternative Timing Methods

10:35 The Importance of Data and Personal Records

11:57 Motivating Athletes with Rewards

13:08 Implementing Feed the Cats in Football

14:37 Speed, Strength, and Football Workouts

16:39 Simplifying Practices and Focusing on Performance

17:33 Training Big Guys like Athletes

20:47 The Importance of Speed for Offensive Linemen

22:13 The Average Combine Measurements for Offensive Tackles

23:10 Integrating Feed the Cats into the Football Season

25:01 Performance Level Practices and Speed Workouts

26:09 Conditioning and Game Speed

27:07 The Importance of CNS Training

29:36 The Role of CNS Training in Football

30:14 CNS Training and Reactionary Drills

33:45 Practicing at Game Speed and Avoiding Cramps

36:43 The Problem with Traditional Conditioning

38:44 Practicing Less and Performing Better

42:37 The Importance of Learning and Growing as a Coach

43:23 Changing Coaching Styles and Personal Growth

43:48 The Misconception of Fun in Practice

44:20 Reframing Punishment as Opportunities for Improvement

45:37 Discipline and Consequences in a Feed the Cats Approach

49:21 Applying Feed the Cats Mentality in the Weight Room

52:09 Indicators of Interference in Speed Training

56:29 The Impact of Feed the Cats on Athletes' Performance

59:14 Unique Approach: Outworking Other Teams

01:02:56 The Importance of Caring for Athletes' Health

01:04:56 The Joy of Sport and Building a Culture of Love

01:07:08 The Conversion to Feed the Cats

01:09:27 Closing Statements and Resources

Embark on an insightful journey with our special guest, Coach Brian Braddock from St. Augustine High School in St. Augustine, FL, as we delve into the intricacies of their run to the state championship game. Coach Braddock lifts the veil on the strategic foundation of their defense, providing an in-depth exploration of defensive concepts such as Boundary & Field Reductions, Simulated Pressures, Firezones, and 6 man pressures.

This episode not only unravels the captivating narrative of St. Augustine's state runner-up journey but also offers a unique opportunity to gain a profound understanding of the defensive strategies that shaped their success.

Join us for a deep dive into the world of two-way players with Coach Jarrod Hickman, Head Football Coach at Florida High in Tallahassee, FL! Uncover the nuances of managing players on both offense and defense, from practice split times to off-season training. If you utilize two-way players a lot in your program this episode is a must listen!