Summary

In this episode, Coach Jeff Smothers discusses the transition from being a head coach to a coordinator. He emphasizes the importance of being present and fully committed to the current role, rather than constantly seeking the next opportunity. Coach Smothers also highlights the value of having a supportive coaching staff and being part of a community that cares about the team. He encourages coaches to communicate openly with their head coaches about their career aspirations and to focus on the love of the game and personal growth. In this conversation, Coach Jeff Smothers discusses the challenges and transitions that come with being an assistant coach. He emphasizes the importance of knowing your role, being loyal to the head coach, and embracing the process. Coach Smothers also highlights the significance of leading your group, building relationships with coaches and players, and being prepared. He encourages assistant coaches to ask questions, challenge ideas respectfully, and take criticism as opportunities for growth. Ultimately, he emphasizes the importance of doing your job and putting the team's success above personal ego.

Takeaways

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Transitioning from Head Coach to Coordinator

03:06 The Importance of Being Where Your Feet Are

06:34 The Value of Being in the Best Situation

10:39 The Importance of Having a Great Coaching Staff

13:32 The Benefits of Being in a Supportive Community

21:23 The Rewards of Being in a Supportive Environment

23:14 The Importance of Transparency and Communication

27:33 Discovering Personal Coaching Preferences

29:05 Transitioning from Head Coach to Assistant Coach

30:10 Settling into the Assistant Coach Role

31:29 Learning and Adapting to New Defensive Strategies

32:29 Offensive Coaches Transitioning to Defense

33:58 Taking a Step Back and Learning as an Assistant Coach

36:06 Dealing with Disagreements as an Assistant Coach

38:00 The Leadership Umbrella and Knowing Your Role

39:36 Leading Your Group as an Assistant Coach

40:47 Being Prepared and Taking Criticism as an Assistant Coach

45:00 Building Relationships with Coaches and Players

46:00 Asking Questions and Challenging Ideas in Staff Meetings

48:05 Embracing the Process and Enjoying the Journey

49:33 Taking Criticism and Doing Your Job

Summary

Summary

In this episode, Coach Tracy Malone discusses the process of creating an offensive installation plan. He emphasizes the importance of starting with the end in mind and working backwards from a Friday night call sheet. Coach Malone shares his approach to installing different run schemes, RPOs, and pass plays. He also explains how the menu can be adjusted based on the team's strengths and the opponent's weaknesses. Overall, Coach Malone emphasizes the importance of simplicity and focusing on the things that matter most to the team's success. The conversation covers coaching strategies, offensive triggers and formations, operations and play calling, offensive run and RPO install, offensive situations and drills, offensive drill bank, and daily musts. In this conversation, Coach Tracy Malone shares insights on leadership, game planning, playbooks, drill banks, signaling, and balancing coaching with personal life. He emphasizes the importance of inspiring and energizing players, starting with the quarterback. Coach Malone discusses the process of building a game plan and the significance of starting with the end in mind. He introduces the concept of drill banks for teaching and customizing the playbook. Coach Malone also shares examples of formation calls and discusses the simplification of communication in two-minute drills. He concludes by reflecting on the importance of prioritizing personal life over coaching ambitions.

Takeaways

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Setup

00:59 Importance of Sharing Coaching Strategies

05:10 Spring Ball vs. Fall Scrimmages

09:21 Installation Plan: Begin with the End in Mind

12:10 Order of Installation and Learning Styles

16:26 Keeping Defensive Coaches and Players on Their Toes

21:09 Master Ready List: Pass Game

32:19 Adjusting the Menu for Game Day

34:02 Coaching Strategies and Observations

36:08 Offensive Triggers and Formations

39:34 Operations and Play Calling

42:36 Personnel and Formations

45:53 Offensive Operations and Install

52:44 Offensive Run and RPO Install

59:16 Offensive Situations and Drills

01:07:27 Offensive Drill Bank

01:08:50 Daily Musts

01:09:18 The Importance of Leadership and Inspiration

01:10:17 Building a Game Plan

01:11:12 Customizing the Playbook

01:12:14 Drill Banks for Teaching

01:13:08 Simplifying Communication in Two-Minute Drills

01:13:59 Formation Calls and Signaling

01:16:09 Example of Formation Calls

01:19:29 Adapting Calls in Two-Minute Drills

01:20:37 Balancing Coaching and Personal Life

01:27:05 Importance of Prioritizing Personal Life

01:31:00 Closing Remarks and Reflections

Summary

Coach Adam Donnelly discusses the vertical choice offensive concept, specifically focusing on wide splits and the use of stack formations. He explains the importance of simplifying the offense and building football intelligence among the players. The split rules and receiver roles are discussed, along with the challenges of communication and overthrows. The concept of stacking and creating space is emphasized, as well as the importance of unselfish receivers. The rules for tagged and untagged receivers are explained, including the trace route and switch release. The progression for the quarterback and the use of play action are also covered. This conversation covers the implementation and execution of the Deep Choice concept in the passing game. It also discusses the importance of pass protection and the teaching points for running backs in that aspect. The chapters cover topics such as confirming fire and rules for wide receivers, setting up pass protection and assigning responsibilities, adjusting pass protection based on matchups, and running other downfield concepts alongside Deep Choice. The conversation also touches on handling bracket coverage and double-teaming the best receiver, as well as the progression in teaching and execution of Deep Choice. This conversation explores the intricacies of a specific offensive strategy in football. The discussion focuses on the tracing concept, exploiting loose quarters coverage, utilizing stack formation, making adjustments, and adapting the offense to different quarterbacks. The coaches share their experiences and insights, highlighting the importance of alignment, decision-making, and creativity in executing the offense effectively.

Takeaways

Summary

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.

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

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

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

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