

Coach and Coordinator Podcast
Keith Grabowski
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 6, 2024 • 32min
Champions: Coaching Kids, Not Just Football - Insights from Mike Elder, Head Coach, Avon HS (OH)
Today’s episode presented by Signature Championship Rings is one from our archives, where Avon High School Head Coach Mike Elder joined me. Coach Elder and the Avon Eagles won their first state championship last night.I’ve watched Mike grow his program over the years from a struggling program before he took over to a perennial state powerhouse.The Eagles have been coming close often, and they finally got over the hump against a very good Anderson team in the Ohio Division 2 state championship. The game came down to the last play and was very well played which is a testament to the excellence in the coaching of Coach Elder and Coach Dreyer and their staffs. Coach Dreyer was a National Coach of the Week in 2024.In this episode he shares insight on how to build a program, and he’s one of the best in Ohio and the country. This was his first episode with us in 2017, and he’s done several of them since. He has over 200 wins at Avon in 18 years and 250 overall as a head coach. He’s taken his team to the state semi-finals six times, has been a state runner-up, and now is a state champion.You will definitely take away some things from what he has to share in this episode. We will surely get Coach Elder back on for our Champions Series presented by Signature Championship Rings in 2025.Chapters
Marketing Avon Football
Engaging with Parents
Developing Young Players
Coaching Philosophy and Culture
Building Youth Programs
Related:
The Importance of the High School Coach in Building a K-12 Football Program - Mike Elder
Creating Buy-In and Playing to Strengths for a Strong Start
Stay Sharp Physically and Mentally in the Late Season – Morgan Scalley (Utah), Chris Softley (Lubbock Christian), Mike Elder (Avon HS)
Playoff Preparation: A Heightened Level of Consistency – Eric Marty (Michigan Panthers), Scotty Walden (Austin Peay), Mike Elder (Avon HS)
National Coach of the Week - Evan Dreyer, Head Coach, Anderson HS (OH)
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.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

Dec 4, 2024 • 52min
CultureGPT - Using AI to Analyze Your Culture and Create Action Plans
In this episode of the Coach and Coordinator Podcast, Keith Grabowski introduces the concept of Culture GPT, which merges artificial intelligence with program culture to enhance coaches' understanding of their teams' dynamics. Grabowski shares his journey of discovering AI’s impact on decision-making and discuss how tools like ChatGPT can analyze the cultural aspects of programs. By implementing a structured methodology that combines feedback, data, and core values, Grabowski guides coaches on using AI for conducting SWOT analyses to uncover actionable insights for improving team culture. The episode highlights the importance of a continuous feedback loop and encourages coaches to leverage technology for clear cultural insights, ultimately creating a more accountable team environment.Chapters
Introduction to Culture GPT
Analyzing Program Culture with AI
Creating Action Plans for Improvement
Conclusion and Future Steps
Link to how-to steps, prompts, survey questions and sample “CultureGPT”:https://docs.google.com/document/d/1uFTtMWFL27rCtkfjiFBiKT7sHuLq_0I1IrJ1Ur_Y3yQ/edit?usp=sharingPDF on coachandcoordinator.comSupport 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

Dec 2, 2024 • 35min
D3 Coach and Coordinator - Robert Landers, Defensive Line Coach, Wittenberg
Robert Landers, Defensive Line Coach at Wittenberg University and former Ohio State Buckeye, shares insights on building a top-performing defensive line. He discusses his coaching philosophy, the importance of player development, and innovative game planning techniques. Landers emphasizes the impact of teamwork and communication in executing effective pressure strategies. He also reflects on his coaching journey, the significance of self-evaluation, and the role of exit interviews in enhancing athlete growth, ensuring they are prepared for future challenges.

Nov 27, 2024 • 35min
Air Raid Update from Hal Mumme, Godfather of the Air Raid
In this conversation, Keith Grabowski and Hal Mumme discuss the launch of the International Football Alliance, its structure, and broadcasting plans. They talk about the evolution of offensive strategies, particularly the Air Raid system, and the importance of practice methodologies and repetition in coaching. Hal shares insights on the challenges of personnel in implementing the Air Raid, the significance of developmental leagues for player growth, and the need for foundational training in youth football. They also highlight resources available for coaches and upcoming events related to the Air Raid system.ChaptersOverview of the International Football AllianceGame Structure and Broadcasting of the IFATrends in Offensive Concepts: Air Raid and BeyondPractice Methodologies in the Air Raid SystemThe Importance of Repetition and Practice PlanningPersonnel Challenges in Implementing the Air RaidDevelopmental Leagues and Player GrowthBuilding a Foundation: Youth and Junior High ProgramsResources for Coaches: Air Raid CertifiedUpcoming Events and Closing Thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 26, 2024 • 41min
#1 Offense in America - Drew Chance, Offensive Coordinator, Illinois College
Illinois College produced some astounding numbers in 2024 in turning in the best performance in college football:
589.4 yards per game
55.4 points per game
376.4 passing yards per game
213 rushing yards per game
51 Pass TD, 22 Rush TD
28.5 First Downs per Game
46 1-minute or less Touchdown Drives
Offensive Coordinator Drew Chance joins us to discuss his journey in the profession, which led to him developing the offense that they run. He’s incorporated high-tempo, maximized splits, the deep choice route, and more. We talk about his offense and how he creates buy-in with the players. We also discuss his game-day routine for being a high-tempo play caller.Chapters
Drew's Coaching Journey
The Self-Taught System
Evolving the Offensive Strategy
Tempo and Spacing Philosophy
Unscripted Practice Periods
Preparing the Scout Team
Balancing the Run Game
Execution in High-Pressure Games
Cultivating a Winning Culture
Communication During High Tempo
Pre-Game Preparation Rituals
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 22, 2024 • 46min
D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week - Tom Perkovich, James Houck, Jackson Vaughan
Keith Grabowski and Logan Hanson review standout performances and coaching achievements from the eleventh week of the Division III football season. They feature Head Coach of Susquehanna Tom Perkovich, Offensive Coordinator of James Houck, and Defensive Coordinator of Linfield Jackson Vaughan.Head Coach/Coaching Staff of the WeekTom Perkovich | Susquehanna | 55-0 vs. Lycoming
Outgained Lyoc 572 to 238 & nearly tripled up YPP, 9.4 vs. 3.7
Only punted once.
Perfect 6-for-6 scoring TDs in Red Zone
Had a 250 yard passer, 150 yard rusher, 99 yard receiver
Allowed 2.3 yards per rush, 4.9 yards per dropback.
Offensive Coordinator of the WeekJames Houck | Wheaton | 66-14 vs. North Park
555 yards on 8.5 yards per play
Never punted, no sacks allowed
Most of starters out by half
Backup QB was 9/14 passing
Ten different players rushed the ball
Eleven different players caught passes
Six different players scored TDs
Defensive Coordinator of the WeekJackson Vaughan | Linfield | 34-7 vs. Whitworth
Whitworth had scored at least 30 in every game this season
Only allowed 221 total yards from conference's top offense
5.1 yards per pass allowed w/ 1 sack, 1 INT, 5 PBUs, & 3 QB hits
Six TFLs on run plays - only allowed 43 yards rushing (Whitworth RB ran for >350 yards in a game this season)
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Nov 20, 2024 • 22min
Post Season Analysis-Factors Affecting the Passing Game
In this episode, from the archives, Keith Grabowski examines postseason analysis of the passing game. Drawing from past insights, he discusses the importance of dissecting plays to understand success and failures while using a data-driven approach to enhance practice and strategy.Chapters
Offseason Analysis Focus
Evaluating Passing Concepts
Forensic Detail in Assessment
Protection Considerations
Route Spacing Insights
Timing and Mechanics
Quarterback Accuracy Matters
Analyzing Routes in Concepts
Calibrating Throws for Improvement
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Nov 18, 2024 • 18min
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 • 32min
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