Top of the Route

Coach DJ Gillins is a veteran coach with experience at a multitude of levels. He brings us through his coaching journey, and what/who has helped mold him into the coach he is today. We talk through some of his techniques and coaching points. More great wideout conversation!

In our second player interview, we talk with one of the newest Cavaliers, Jacquon Gibson. A UMASS transfer, Gibson had a productive final season with the Minutemen, finishing 12th in FBS in receptions per game, with 6.3 a game. We talk his journey from high school to college, and where he has grown the most. The mindset he carries, and the routines that help keep him ready to compete, and a step above the rest. Another great listen for all current players!

In this episode we are joined by Charles Torwudzo. A former wideout at Purdue University, and the current Director of Player Personnel with USA Football. "CT" gives us insight on his journey and passion for the position. We talk growth of flag football, and what he looks for when evaluating wideouts.

Coach David Porter from Bethel High School (VA) joins us for episode nine. Coach Porter is a veteran coach and wideout developer at multiple levels. He shares what he learned as a player and how it still translates now. His philosophies on the wideout position and practice have proven to help lead his players and teams to success over the years.

In this episode, Coach Stephen Amoako of Georgetown University stops in to chop it up with us. Having played DB at a very high level, he offers up some great perspective of wideout play through a defensive lens. Coach Amoako talks about the transition to the offensive side of the ball, and shares some of his philosophies he has instilled in his group. We talk about his AFCA Skills & Drills presentation, and dive in deep on releases and hand fighting. A truly insightful conversation that all can learn from.

In this episode, we sat down with Coach Gary Green; he is the wideout coach and passing game coordinator for Providence Day School and the owner and operator of Competitors Only Sports. From playing career to coaching, we explore his journey and what got him loving the wideout position. One of the top wideout developers in his region, Coach Green expounds on his philosophies, coaching style, and drill implementation. He works with some of the top guys in the country, like Texas A&M's KC Concepcion, shares what separates him from the rest, and what his draft prep has been like. This in depth conversation on training structure, route techniques, mental toughness, and the importance of fundamentals and consistency, made for a truly insightful conversation.

In this inspiring interview, college football standout Dan Villari shares his journey from Long Island to the NFL, emphasizing the importance of mental toughness, foundational skills, and relentless work ethic. Discover how dedication, mental training, and intentional practice can elevate athletes to the next level.

In this episode, Coach Callahan shares his journey from playing DB to coaching wide receivers, emphasizing the importance of fundamentals, decision-making, and culture in developing elite wideouts. The Monmouth passing attack has consistently been one of the tops in the country, and Coach is a big part of this success by the way he prepares his position group. He discusses drills, techniques, and the mindset needed to succeed at the college level and beyond.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

02:23 The Value of Guest Perspectives

04:12 Coaching Journey and Transition to Offense

07:41 Understanding Defensive Concepts for Offensive Success

11:29 Maximizing Player Potential and Versatility

15:11 Recruiting Philosophy and Player Characteristics

19:01 Managing a Talented Wide Receiver Room

22:35 Coaching Culture and Team Dynamics

26:05 Offensive Strategy and Success Factors

29:24 Maximizing Efficiency in Practice Sessions

33:01 Teaching Release Techniques for Receivers

40:14 The Importance of In-Stem Combat

43:56 Decision-Making in Drills

49:47 Emphasizing Break Points and Body Positioning

57:15 Coaching Speed Cuts and Body Language

01:04:37 Catching Techniques and Standards

01:08:30 Improving Player Performance and Resilience

01:14:22 Learning from Other Coaches and Experiences

In this episode, Coach Dubb breaks down his journey from player to wideout coach, highlighting the critical role of technique, mindset, and relentless improvement. He shares his unique approach to route running, releases, and the mental details that separate good players from elite ones.

We dive into the value of authentic expertise, mental toughness, and what it truly means to stay “locked in.” Coach Dubb emphasizes continuous learning, intentional work, and the mindset required to succeed—not just in football, but in life. Drawing inspiration from greats like Kobe Bryant and Davante Adams, this conversation is packed with insight for anyone looking to elevate their game.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

00:59 Playing Days and Influences in Football

01:37 Journey Through Different Leagues and Transition to Coaching

02:32 Influences and Mentors in Wideout Play

03:31 Key Lessons from Mentors on Route Technique and Preparation

04:48 The Importance of Consistency and Technique in Route Running

07:05 The Role of Quality Reps and Practice in Skill Development

09:24 Critique of Current Wide Receiver Drills and Practices

10:33 The Issue with Drills and the Concept of Authenticity

11:23 Egotism and Insecurity in Coaching and Technique Adoption

12:25 The Philosophy of Observation and Continuous Improvement

18:26 How Player and Coach Perspectives Shape Technique

19:38 The Myth of Speed and the Importance of Technique

21:22 The Truth About Arm Pump and Route Deception

23:46 Discovering the Hip Drop and Its Significance

28:47 The Critical Role of Attack and Vertical Stem in Breaks

32:08 Maximizing Separation and the Importance of Route Precision

38:23 Making the First Man Miss and Creating Big Plays

39:45 Practicing Elusiveness and Making the First Man Miss

40:58 Releases, Speed, and Situational Awareness

47:52 Teaching Fastball and Hand Combat in Releases

50:14 The Importance of Immediate Vertical Movement

52:19 The Role of Practice, Planning, and Player Mindset

55:22 Adapting Coaching to Player and Situation

56:10 The Evolution of Coaching Philosophy and Continuous Learning

1:01:59 The Difference Between True Experts and Self-Proclaimed 'Gurus'

1:04:21 The Mindset of Kobe Bryant and Devante Adams

1:06:56 The Importance of Locked-In Focus and Anticipation

1:10:33 Continuous Learning and Upgrading Coaching Software

1:13:47 Effort, Priorities, and the Will to Improve

1:17:17 The Role of Authenticity and Integrity in Coaching

1:20:28 The Impact of Preparation and Mental Toughness

1:23:26 The Value of Genuine Effort Over Talent Alone

1:25:56 Conclusion: Striving for Excellence and Growth

We sat down with Joe Gerbino, WR coach and passing game coordinator for Colgate University. Coach Gerbino gives us insight on his position room at Colgate, his playing days as a WR, and his focuses as a coach to continue to develop his players. We also talk offensive scheme through the lens of the wideout!