Coach and Coordinator Podcast

Latest Episodes:

The Top 22 Strategy: Depth and Flexibility - Alex Gray, Defensive Coordinator, John Carroll Aug 20, 2024

Show notes

Alex Gray, the new defensive coordinator for John Carroll University, brings over 20 years of coaching experience, including a successful stint at St. Thomas University in Florida, where his defenses led the Sun Conference in scoring defense and sacks. Coach Gray is known for his aggressive and versatile defensive strategies that leverage player strengths and keep offenses off balance.

In this episode, Coach Gray shares his strategies for building depth. He discusses the "Top 22" player list for talent recruitment and how he adapted this approach at St. Thomas. Gray emphasizes athlete versatility, streamlined practice organization, and the need for coaching flexibility.

Chapters

Introduction to Building Depth

The Top 22 Concept

Adapting Practice for Versatility

Game Day Application

Impact on Coaching Staff

Winning Edge

Developing depth in a football team involves identifying the best athletes regardless of position and preparing them to play multiple roles. By creating a "Top 22" list, coaches can maximize versatility and adaptability, allowing players to fit into various schemes based on their strengths. This approach requires coaches to be well-versed in multiple positions, ensuring effective communication and preparation. While demanding, this strategy results in a more resilient team, ready to face the challenges of a season with a flexible and adaptable depth chart.

Be sure to check out our partners Vertical Raise for your fundraising needs, Modern Football Technology for analytics and in-game decision making and Signature Championship Rings when you win the championship this year. Links and information to all of our partners can be found in the description and on coachancoordinator.com in our 10% Tool Kit.

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The 8 Stressors That Equalize a Defense - Brad Glenn, Offensive Coordinator, Cincinnati Aug 19, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Coach and Coordinator Podcast presented by Vertical Raise, Brad Glenn, Offensive Coordinator and Wide Receivers Coach at the University of Cincinnati, shares his expert insights on eight key strategies to level the playing field for your offense. Brad discusses how these "equalizers" can be used to gain a strategic advantage, regardless of the talent on your roster. From varying tempos to using unbalanced formations and creative shifts, Brad emphasizes the importance of making defensive coordinators uncomfortable and creating opportunities for explosive plays. Whether in the early season or looking to refine your approach mid-season, these practical tips can help you craft a more dynamic and effective offense.

Chapters:

Introduction to Eight Offensive Equalizers
Tempo: The Power of Changing Speeds
Utilizing Empty Formations for Simplicity and Advantage
Incorporating Triple Option Concepts
RPOs and Packaged Plays: Gaining the 'Last Pen' Advantage
The Strategic Use of Two Tight End Sets
Unbalanced Sets and Exotic Formations
Formation into the Sideline (FSL)
Shifts and Motions: Confusing the Defense
Combining Strategies for Maximum Impact
Conclusion and Final Thoughts

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Q&A with Dan Dorazio, Legendary Offensive Line Coach Aug 16, 2024

Show notes

In this special episode of the Coach and Coordinator Podcast, we are re-airing an interview with a true legend of the game, Coach Dan Dorazio, whose recent passing has deeply affected the football community.

Dan's impact on the CFL and Offensive Line Play was immense. His coaching career spanned decades and left an indelible mark on the game. His dedication to developing players, innovative approach to coaching the offensive line, and unwavering passion for the game made him a beloved figure in the football community.

Today, as we honor his life and career, we'll revisit the wisdom, stories, and insights that Coach Dorazio shared with us on Coach and Coordinator.

We held a Q&A with longtime offensive line coach Dan Dorazio. Coach Dorazio has worked as an offensive line coach in the Canadian Football League since 1998, and he has worked with teams including the BC Lions, Calgary Stampeders, Saskatchewan Roughriders, and the Toronto Argonauts.

On this episode of the podcast, hear about Coach Dorazio's experiences when he answers questions from collegiate offensive line coaches across the country.

Chapters:

Three Favorite Run concepts
Evolution of Zone Blocking
Three crucial weekly drills
Transitioning to Canadian Football
Transition from RB to OLine coach
Establishing a mentor
Being teammates with Nick Saban
Double under striking
Off-season development plan
Mixing up the drills
Vertical vs. quick lateral sets
Characteristics to look for in offensive linemen
Zone and gap double team combos
Taking care of Level 1
Hand punches
Teaching snap techniques to new center
Adjustments to landmarks
Best plays against "Bear" defense
Protection against 4i-0-4i
Accounting for linebackers

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Using Adversity to Build Unity - Nick Sorrell, Head Coach, Highland HS (ID) Aug 15, 2024

Show notes

On today’s Champions Series presented by Signature Championship Rings, we share a story of adversity that led to a state championship.

Highland High School in Idaho was ravaged by a fire just seven months before the Rams won the 2023 5A state championship. Coach Sorrell and his team and staff faced a great challenge as the facilities were destroyed and the equipment remained buried in the ashes until the start of the season.

We will dig into how the team faced the adversity and rallied together to win it all.

Chapters

Building Team Unity Amidst Adversity

Adversity as a Catalyst for Success

Community Support and Unity

Lessons Learned and Moving Forward

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Maximizing Special Teams Practice - Bill Brest, Special Teams Coordinator, Grove City Aug 14, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of The Season Bill Brest, Special Teams Coordinator at Grove City College, explores innovative strategies for special teams practice and planning. Coach Brest emphasizes dedicating 20% of practice time to special teams, despite only 13-17% of game snaps being special team plays. He shares a unique approach where offensive and defensive coaches work on special teams drills simultaneously on opposite sides of the field, effectively doubling practice time. He also discusses player engagement, ensuring every player gets reps and is filmed, and outlines his game week preparation, including film study, game plan creation, and practice organization using platforms like Hudl.

Chapters

Coach Brest on Special Teams Install Philosophy
Utilizing Both Sides of the Field for Drills
Handling Players Standing Around During Practice
Transition to Game Week Practice Schedule
Field Layout and Drills Description
Organizing Practice Time During Game Week
Game Planning for Special Teams
Sharing Information via Huddle
Vision and Responsibility for Specialists
Winning Edge

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Title: KILT Style - Jason Couch, Head Coach, Alma College Aug 13, 2024

Show notes

Jason Couch is the Head Coach of Alma College's football team. Under his leadership, Alma College has achieved significant success, including winning the 2022 Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association (MIAA) Championship, the program's first since 2004. Couch has revitalized the Scots' football program, leading them to multiple winning seasons and playoff appearances. The Scots finished the 2023 season ranked #6 in NCAA Division III.

In this episode, Coach Couch discusses the significance of team culture and identity in achieving success. He shares how he has elevated the program by focusing on team values and adapting to each season's unique dynamics. Coach Couch explains the use of acronyms like 'KILT style,' 'CLIMB,' and 'HUNT' to develop team identities centered on unity, belief, and hunger for success. We dive into the importance of intentional practices, personal storytelling, and peer recognition in reinforcing team values. Creative team-building activities are utilized to enhance communication and positivity. Coach Couch stresses the team's focus on courage, havoc, one, and passion (CHOP) for the upcoming season.

Chapters

Introduction and Background
Establishing Team Identity with Kilt Style
Climbing the Mountain: Belief and Success
Staying on the Hunt: Heart, Us, Now, Trust
Intentionality and Progression over the Season
Bringing "Chop" to Life on the Field
Building Relationships and Team Dynamics
Fun and Engagement Activities in Camp

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Embracing the Chaos of Install- Buddy Blevins, Co-Offensive Coordinator, Idaho State Aug 12, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Coach and Coordinator Podcast, Buddy Blevins, co-offensive coordinator at Idaho State, discusses the importance of embracing chaos during camp installations. He explores the evolution of offensive strategies, particularly the run-and-shoot offense. Buddy emphasizes understanding the 'why' behind plays and integrating player decision-making on the field. Focusing on technique, effort, and discipline, he emphasizes winning the moment and a strong team culture.

Chapters

Embracing the Chaos
Teaching with Intent
Focus on Learning the Offense
Avoiding False Presumptions
Layering in Situational Awareness
The Importance of Intention
Operational Planning
Establishing Team Identity
Cultural Foundation
Winning Edge

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Champions - Peaking at the Right Time - Mike Coe, Head Coach, Coffee HS (GA) Aug 08, 2024

Show notes

Welcome to another episode of the Champions presented by Signature Championship Rings on Coach and Coordinator Podcast!

Today, we have the privilege of having Coach Mike Coe, the five-time state champion head coach of Coffee High School join us. He won 4 state championships at Maidson County HS in Florida, and now has his first state championship in Georgia in his second season at Coffee.

Coach Coe shares the details behind his team's success and the meticulous planning that ensures his players peak at the right time of the season.

Coach Coe emphasizes the balance between elements of physical, mental and team chemistry coming together while avoiding the pitfalls of peaking too early. All of this begins with a strong understanding of the team and staff and their needs as people.

Chapters

Preparing Your Team for Peak Performance
Balancing Physical, Mental, and Team Chemistry
Importance of Understanding and Valuing Your Team
Building Strong Relationships with Your Team
Importance of Understanding and Leading Your Team
Taking Care of Coaches to Sustain Peak Performance
Valuing Time, Family, and Coaching Philosophy
Learning from Losses and Sticking to the Plan
Impact of Practice Tempo on Game Preparation
Establishing Consistent Practices Across the Program
Adjusting Practice Routines for Peak Performance
Managing Player Health and Hydration in Hot Weather
Utilizing Class Time Effectively for Game Preparation
Promoting Freedom and Accountability on Game Day
Winning Edge

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Learn More about Signature Championship Rings:

Signature Championship Rings is a leading designer and supplier of championship rings, serving over 10,000 teams and organizations. With a focus on quality craftsmanship, easy team ordering processes, and affordability, Signature Champions celebrate every champion and their achievements, making their moment last a lifetime. For more information, visit www.signaturechampions.com/podcast.

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Leadership - Van Malone, Assistant Head Coach, Kansas State Aug 07, 2024

Show notes

On today's episode, we're thrilled to welcome back Van Malone, the assistant head coach, passing game coordinator, and cornerbacks coach at Kansas State. Van has joined us before, and we're excited to have him return to dive into the topic of leadership and its development throughout the season. Coach Malone shares insights into Kansas State's unique approach to nurturing leadership within their team. We'll explore how they create leadership teams, the importance of cross-position bonding, and activities designed to develop and identify emerging leaders.

Chapters

Developing Leadership Teams
Fostering Competition and Accountability
Building a Team Culture
Individual Story of Leadership Impact
Being the Thermostat of Leadership
Activities for Team Building
Importance of Small Group Discussions
Winning Edge

Support our Partners:

Learn More about Modern Football Technology:

Battle-tested, Modern Football’s platform provides real-time self-scout and opponent tendencies, while eliminating manual tagging into HUDL, DV Sport, and XOS. Trusted by teams at every level, see how top coaches leverage this platform for in-game decision-making and play-calling success. To book a demo, visit www.teammofo.com/demo. Mention Coach and Coordinator Podcast or use the coupon code CC10 when signing up for a demo to receive 10% off your first year.

Learn more about Vertical Raise:

Elevate your program's Online Fundraising to new heights Use Vertical Raise’s online fundraising system and raise more money in less time:

https://verticalraise.com

Multiple fundraising solutions to fit all your program needs
Leverage best-in-class technology, texting & email deliverability.
An in-person local fundraising coach walks your team through every step of the process.

The 10% Tool Kit:

Explore these pages for helpful tips, a winning edge, and special promotions for Coach and Coordinator Podcast listeners.

Sign up for the Weekly Tip Sheet:

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Developing Depth - Gary McGraw - Defensive Backs, Jenks High School (OK) Aug 05, 2024

Show notes

Developing Depth - Gary McGraw, Defensive Backs Coach, Jenks HS (OK)

Today, our guest on this episode of our season series is Gary McGraw, now the defensive back and special team coordinator at Jenks High School in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Gary has coached at all levels of college football, has done an excellent job wherever he's been, and now comes back to the high school level after 20 years of being at the college level. So he will share some insight today into developing depth, developing your players, getting to the point where you have a next man up, and then being able to do some fun things like package your guys and work them into different situations and personnel groups.

Chapters