
Coach and Coordinator Podcast
Keith Grabowski interviews the most knowledgeable head coaches, coordinators, and position coaches from professional, college, and high school football. Keith and his guests discuss the philosophy, concepts, schemes, and strategies that they have learned throughout their careers. Each show includes a specific idea that can be applied to help coaches at every level find the winning edge.
Latest episodes

Nov 18, 2024 • 19min
Staff Evaluations
Season wrap-ups offer a pivotal opportunity for staff evaluations. Discover techniques for assessing coaching contributions, encouraging open communication, and fostering professional development. Learn how to reflect on team dynamics, community involvement, and athlete growth. Dive into strategic evaluation methods to enhance team performance for the next season. Timing and actionable insights from evaluations can be game-changers for coaching success.

Nov 15, 2024 • 50min
D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week: Tarek Yaeggi, Kalvin Oliver, Tom Journell
Keith Grabowski and Logan Hanson review standout performances and coaching achievements from the tenth week of the Division III football season. They feature Head Coach of Carleton College Tom Journell, Offensive Coordinator of UW-Stout Tarek Yaeggi, and Defensive Coordinator of Shenandoah University Kalvin Oliver.Head Coach/Coaching Staff of the WeekTom Journell | Carleton | 51-17 vs. Gustavus Adolphus
Outgained Gusties 564-338 w/ 8.5 to 4.5 yards per play advantage
Passed for nearly 500 yards, with 18 FDs, 7 TDs, and 0 INTs
Held opponent to 70 yards rushing, with 8 TFLs & 4 sacks
Extremely efficient on offense - only 1 play over 25 yards
Won 3rd & 4th downs - 8-13/1-1 on offense, 3-17/3-8 on defense
Offensive Coordinator of the WeekTarek Yaeggi | UW-Stout | 45-42 vs. UW-Oshkosh
Second Top 25 win of the season
472 total yards & over 350 yards passing
Eight for 13 on 3rd down & perfect in the redzone (5-5 w/ 4 TDs)
Eight different players with a reception
Drove 13 plays for 74 yards in final drive to kick winning FG as time expired
Defensive Coordinator of the WeekKalvin Oliver | Shenandoah | 35-7 vs. Hampden-Sydney
Didn't allow a single play of over 20 yards
Held opponent to 4 of 13 on 3rd downs
Allowed less than 75 yards rushing
Forced four 3 & outs in first 5 drive of the game
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Nov 14, 2024 • 33min
Post-Season Analysis - Breaking Down Technique Errors - Andy Ryland, USA Football
In this episode from the archives, host Keith Grabowski teamed up with co-host for this in-season series Andy Ryland, the senior manager of education and training at USA Football to explore deliberate practice. We discuss the importance of analyzing practice drills and their effectiveness in-game performance.We emphasized evaluating coaching methods, identifying errors, understanding their origins, and examining performance metrics. Our conversation highlights the need for consistent terminology and focused error categorization to enhance skill development.There are many ways to improve utilizing post-season analysis, and improving technique and skill is the episode's focus.Chapters
Analyzing Practice Errors
Improving Practice Effectiveness
Understanding Technique and Performance
Evaluating Position Group Performance
Identifying Patterns in Play Execution
Enhancing Game Planning Strategies
Developing a Systematic Approach
Year-Round Skill Development
Support Our Partners + Offers for Our Listeners:10% Tool KitCoach and Coordinator pledges to source the latest and greatest products and services available in the coaching marketplace. We call this repository The 10% Toolkit for The 10% Coach. These resources are proven to help coaches win games and achieve all objectives for their programs. Think of it as a buyer's guide for vendors and suppliers we trust with our seal of certification. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 13, 2024 • 22min
Post-Season Analysis of Tempo - Zach Dunn, Defensive Assistant, Cleveland Browns
In this episode from the archives, host Keith Grabowski is joined by Zach Dunn, a member of Keith’s team at USA Football and is now a defensive assistant for the Cleveland Browns. They discuss the strategic use of tempo, analyzing its impact on offense and defense. They break down different tempo strategies and categorize tempo into four types.The emphasis is on integrating tempo metrics into play analysis to refine offensive strategies and evaluate defensive responses to multi-tempo offenses. Chapters
Introduction to Tempo
Alabama vs. LSU Tempo Tactics
Cadence Variations in Offense
Analyzing Offensive Tempo
Defensive Response to Tempo
Understanding Defensive Tempo Types
The Importance of Cadence and Tempo
Offseason Training Insights
Support Our Partners + Offers for Our Listeners:10% Tool KitCoach and Coordinator pledges to source the latest and greatest products and services available in the coaching marketplace. We call this repository The 10% Toolkit for The 10% Coach. These resources are proven to help coaches win games and achieve all objectives for their programs. Think of it as a buyer's guide for vendors and suppliers we trust with our seal of certification. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 12, 2024 • 50min
Self Scout For Culture And The Importance of Staff Alignment - Brian Kight, Daily Discipline
In this episode from the archives of The Leadership Journey on the Coach and Coordinator Podcast, we discuss the role of staff alignment as the playoff season approaches. Joined by co-host Brian Kight, we emphasize the importance of reflective practices for assessing team performance and strategizing for the future.We dive into the often-overlooked aspect of coaching staff alignment, sharing personal experiences highlighting the risks of misalignment on team culture. Practical strategies for enhancing cohesion are discussed, stressing the need for open communication and addressing challenges proactively. Chapters
Reflecting on the Season
Staff Alignment Importance
Personal Experiences in Coaching
Ignoring Issues in Alignment
The Challenges of Coaching Today
The Role of Players in Team Culture
Defining Alignment
What Alignment Is Not
The Subtle Lack of Alignment
The Role of Coaches in Alignment
Enhancing Team Culture
The Impact of Staff Alignment
Accountability in Coaching
Support Our Partners + Offers for Our Listeners:10% Tool KitCoach and Coordinator pledges to source the latest and greatest products and services available in the coaching marketplace. We call this repository The 10% Toolkit for The 10% Coach. These resources are proven to help coaches win games and achieve all objectives for their programs. Think of it as a buyer's guide for vendors and suppliers we trust with our seal of certification. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 8, 2024 • 40min
D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week - Brett Elliot, BJ Hill, Dan McCarty
Keith Grabowski and Logan Hanson review standout performances and coaching achievements from the eighth week of the Division III football season. They feature Head Coach of St. Norbert Dan McCarty, Offensive Coordinator of Linfield Brett Elliott, and Defensive Coordinator of Johns Hopkins B.J. Hill.Head Coach/Coaching Staff of the WeekDan McCarty | St. Norbert | 55-7 vs. Wisconsin Lutheran
Only allowed 4 first downs all game
Over 40 minutes of time of possession
Over 200 yards each passing and rushing
Forced 6 turnovers w/ 1 return TD - 4 interceptions and 2 fumble recoveries
Offensive Coordinator of the WeekBrett Elliott | Linfield | 68-28 vs. Pacific
3rd game this season with at least 60 points
Scored on 6 of 7 first half drives (5 TDs)
Over 200 yards passing & rushing
Thirteen different players rushed the ball & 7 different players scored TDs
Defensive Coordinator of the WeekBJ Hill | Johns Hopkins | 26-13 vs. Muhlenberg
Forced four turnovers (3 INT & 1 Fumble), one returned for a TD @ end of regulation
Blocked a go-ahead FG at the end of the 3rd quarter
Muhlenberg had score at least 33 points in every game this season
Only allowed 3 rushing first downs
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Nov 6, 2024 • 17min
National Coach of the Week - Travis Dixon, Head Coach, Hamilton High School (AZ)
The National Coach of the Week is Travis Dixon is head coach of the Hamilton High School football programming Arizona. In our conversation, Coach Dixon emphasizes the value of continuous learning and adaptability for young coaches. He highlights the role of analytics in game strategy and the necessity of communication among coaching staff during games. He stresses the importance of maintaining a growth mindset within the staff.ChaptersCoaching Journey and ExperiencesUnderstanding Game Analysis and StrategyGame Management InsightsBuilding a Trustworthy Coaching StaffGrowth Mindset in CoachingWinning EdgeLearn 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 your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 5, 2024 • 33min
Playoff Preparation-Balancing Data, Instincts, and Game Day Execution-Rob Everett, Analyst, Miami Dolphins
In this episode, Rob Everett, now an analyst with the Miami Dolphins, joins us to analyze game preparation as we approach the end of the regular season and the anticipation of playoffs. We discuss the complexities of managing game film, highlighting the balance between leveraging technology and avoiding information overload. We stress the importance of a holistic season analysis, emphasizing the significance of tagging film for identifying trends and adapting strategies. We dive into defensive preparation, focusing on understanding opponent tendencies and the psychological aspects of coaching decisions influenced by score differentials. We also share an approach to selecting game footage for playoffs to ensure clarity in assessing team performances. The episode concludes with strategies for maintaining a balance between data insights and foundational coaching principles, reminding us that success ultimately relies on execution and a deep understanding of both teams involved.Chapters
Analyzing Film Strategies
Defensive Focus and Trends
Offensive Insights and Matchups
Special Situations in Game Planning
Choosing Relevant Game Film
Importance of Data and Execution
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 your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 1, 2024 • 51min
D3 Coach and Coordinator of the Week: Jim Catanzaro, Zach Riepma, Dan Bauder
Keith Grabowski and Logan Hanson review standout performances and coaching achievements from the eighth week of the Division III football season. They feature Head Coach of Lake Forest College Jim Catanzaro, Offensive Coordinator of Alma College Zach Riepma, abd Defensive Coordinator of the University of Wisconsin - Platteville.Head Coach/Coaching Staff of the WeekJim Catanzaro | Lake Forest | 66-0 vs Ripon
Outgained Ripon 618-96
Only 4 rushing yards shy of 300 yards each rushing & passing
Only one drive all game without a score
3 INTs, 4 sacks, & 9 TFLs
Offensive Coordinator of the WeekZach Riepma | Alma | 67-14 vs. Olivet
580 yards on only 54 plays (10.7 ypp)
16-20 passing, >19 yards per attempt
Only faced 8 third downs all game, converted 6 into first downs
Two different receivers with >100 yards receiving
Defensive Coordinator of the WeekDan Bauder | UW-Platteville | 17-10 vs. UW-Whitewater
Highest graded & highest rated defense all season
Held Warhawks scoreless second half
Completion percentage allowed <50%
3 of 13 on 3rd downs & 1 of 3 on 4th
Forced the only turnover of the game in 4th to setup FG\
Related:#1 Defense in College Football and Developing Players off the Field – Jim Catanzaro, Head Coach, Lake Forest CollegePreparing for Big Games - Zach Riepma, Offensive Coordinator, Alma CollegeKilt Style - Jason Couch, Head Coach, Alma College D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week - Brent Allen, Chris Sapp, Mike McElroyCourse from Coach Reimpa:Playing FAST: Tempo and SpaceAbout Hansen RatingsHansen Ratings is a data-driven system that uses advanced mathematical formulas to evaluate and rank Division III football players and teams. The system considers various metrics, including Total Adjusted Yards per Play (TAYP) and Yards Above Replacement Player per Game (YARP/G), providing a comprehensive look at player efficiency and team performance. Hansen Ratings also recognizes coaches of the year based on overall success, improvement, and surpassing preseason expectations.Support Our Partners + Offers for Our Listeners:10% Tool KitCoach and Coordinator pledges to source the latest and greatest products and services available in the coaching marketplace. We call this repository The 10% Toolkit for The 10% Coach. These resources are proven to help coaches win games and achieve all objectives for their programs. Think of it as a buyers guide for vendors and suppliers we trust with our seal of certification. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 30, 2024 • 23min
National Coach of the Week - Trevor Hudson, Head Coach, American Canyon HS (CA)
Our National Coach of the Week, presented by Modern Football Technology, is Trevor Hudson, head coach at American Canyon High School. He shares his unique coaching philosophy that combines traditional values with modern strategies. He emphasizes teamwork, discipline, and relational coaching, creating strong leadership through a mentorship program. Coach Hudson discusses the importance of reducing penalties by setting clear behavioral expectations and highlights his commitment to a strong running game, leveraging real-time data through tools like Modern Football Technology. His approach reflects a respect for football's roots and an adaptation to contemporary athlete engagement.Trevor Hudson brings a deep-rooted passion for football and player development to American Canyon. Growing up in Miami, Coach Hudson began coaching little league in high school, sparking a career focused on shaping young men. After serving in the Air Force and coaching at Edwards Air Academy, Hudson spent two years as an assistant at national powerhouse Bishop Gorman. Now, he aims to elevate American Canyon into a national program. Guided by the team’s motto, “Wolves versus everybody,” Hudson is building a culture of discipline, unity, and resilience, honoring the foundation laid by previous coaches.Chapters
Building Relationships with Players
Connecting with Tough Players
Discipline on the Field
Embracing Modern Technology
Winning Edge
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.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:Be sure to sign up for our weekly newsletter. Every Tuesday morning, we email our Weekly Tip Sheet Newsletter – the best ideas from recent Coach and Coordinator Podcast episodes, additional coaching development resources, and recommendations sourced specifically for the 10% Coach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices