

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

Sep 23, 2024 • 21min
Finding Your Identity and Sticking to What Works- Coach McEndoo, Tight Ends & Fullbacks Coach, Oklahoma State
Jason McEndoo, tight ends and fullbacks coach at Oklahoma State, shares his insights on establishing a team's identity and adapting strategies based on player strengths. He emphasizes a 'less is more' philosophy during mid-season, advocating for simplified play-calling and effective practice adjustments to maintain player health. The conversation also covers the importance of collaboration among coaches and evolving offensive strategies, highlighting how teams can successfully navigate mid-season challenges by aligning their approach with core strengths.

Sep 20, 2024 • 48min
D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week - Ryan Fleetwood - Salisbury, Ryan McElwain - DePauw, Mike Cerasuolo - Springfield
Keith Grabowski and Logan Hanson review standout performances and coaching achievements from the second week of the Division III football season. They feature Salisbury University's Ryan Fleetwood for his high-scoring offense in a 59-38 win over Muhlenberg, DePauw College's Ryan McElwain for a 33-0 shutout against Berry College, and Springfield College's Mike Sarasolo, who emphasizes team culture and brotherhood. The episode highlights the unique spirit of D3 football and the commitment to preparing student-athletes for life beyond the game.Offensive Coordinator of the WeekRyan Fleetwood | Salisbury | 59-38 vs. Muhlenberg
Eleven different offensive players carried/caught the ball
Averaged over 10 yards per rush and 35 yards per completion
648 total yards on 12.0 yards per play
Opponent only allowed 17.5 points/game in 2023
Second straight game with at least 7 TDs and > 600 yards offense
Defensive Coordinator of the WeekRyan McElwain | DePauw | 33-0 vs. Berry
Shutout win against team averaging 53 points per game in last 11 games
Only eight total first downs allowed (2 by penalty)
Less than 75 yards allowed both on the ground and through the air
Allowed 2.2 yards per play
Of 144 yards allowed, 67 came on a single drive
8 three & outs (plus 1 safety in 2 plays)
Head Coach/Coaching Staff of the WeekMike Cerasuolo | Springfield | 76-7 vs. Husson
Over 600 yards offense, 557 yards rushing
Held opponent to 238 yards, 11 first downs, and 25% on 3rd downs
Won turnover battle 3-0
Forced a 3 & out on 8 of 12 drives, while scoring in 3 or fewer plays 6 times
About 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 18, 2024 • 16min
National Coach of the Week - Craig Stump, Atascocita HS (TX)
Our National Coach of the Week presented by Modern Football Technology is Atascocita Head Coach Craig Stump. Atascocita had a big win over #4 ranked Westlake High School (ranked #29 in the nation). That’s following two big wins over Lamar and Katy to start the season.Coach Stump discusses his team's growth since 2015, consistently reaching regional finals and semifinals, and emphasizes the importance of scheduling high-level competition to elevate performance standards. He shares his coaching philosophy that prioritizes accountability, work ethic, and personal responsibility, advocating for a culture of positive reinforcement rather than punishment.Chapters:
Scheduling Tough Competitions
Building Work Ethic and Accountability
The Positive Side of Accountability
Winning Edge
About Modern Football TechnologyBattle-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

Sep 17, 2024 • 20min
Champions - Maintaining Focus - Kirk Johnson, Head Coach, Montgomery Catholic HS(AL)
In this episode of the Coach and Coordinator Podcast Champions Season Series presented by Signature Championship RIngs, The head coach of the 2023 Alabama 4A State Champion Montgomery Catholic Knights Kirk Johnson joins us explore the challenges of maintaining player focus in today's world filled with distractions. Coach Johnson emphasizes the importance of building relationships, establishing team purpose, and setting high standards. We look at Montgomery Catholic's team structure, leadership selection, and the significance of creating a safe space for open communication. Kirk shares insights on consistent team talks, player engagement strategies, mental and physical preparation, and opponent analysis based on self-improvement. Chapters
Keeping Players Focused
Midseason Challenges
Off-Field Focus Strategies
Team Talks Structure
Creating Open Environments
Staff Facilitation
Timing of Team Talks
Practice Season Engagement
Physical Adjustments
Opponent Influence on Focus
Keys to Success
Thank you for supporting our partners: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.The 10% Tool Kit Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 16, 2024 • 28min
Preparing for Big Games - Zach Riepma, Offensive Coordinator, Alma College
Chapters
Early Season Big Games
Balancing Urgency and Enjoyment
Developing Depth and Next Man Up
Game Planning for Early Challenges
Keeping It Simple and Effective
Team Identity and Cultural Focus
This episode features a conversation with Zach Reipma, the Offensive Coordinator at Alma College, as we explore the strategic preparation for early season big games. Coach Riepma shares insights on managing a shortened training camp while aiming for success against nationally ranked opponents. He highlights the importance of keeping players grounded amid expectations, building a strong team dynamic, and maintaining a fun practice environment. We discuss the balance between coaching and empowering players, roster management strategies, and the significance of a cohesive game plan. Support our Partners - Offers from them in the 10% Tool Kit Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 13, 2024 • 22min
Champions - Reinforce Culture In-Season - Cullen Nelson, Head Coach, Chanhassen HS (MN)
In this episode of our Champion Series presented by Signature Championship Rings, we discuss the role of team culture as we navigate the football season. Colin Nelson, the state 5A Minnesota state champion coach from Chanhassen High School, joins us. He was the 2023 Minnesota Football Coaches Association Coach of the Year Award winner. We explore how to preserve foundational values and build community pride within the program, emphasizing collective responsibility over individual achievements. Coach Nelson shares his 'Earn It' philosophy, which promotes key values like effort and integrity, and highlights systems for recognizing positive contributions among players. Our conversation also examines how language can influence mindset and resilience in young athletes. Cullen Nelson is the first coach from Chanhassen to win the MFCA Coach of the Year Award. Cullen is the fifth Class 5A coach to win the MFCA Coach of the Year Award. In the 2023 season, his Chanhassen Storm had a 13-0 record and won the Class 5A State Championship.Chapters
Culture and Community in Football
Reinforcing Values Throughout the Season
The Power of Resilience in Coaching
Winning Edge
Thank you for supporting our partners: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.The 10% Tool Kit Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 12, 2024 • 52min
D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week - Reed Florence - Marietta, Craig Stenbroten - UW-Oshkosh, Peter Stuursma - Hope
D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week - Week 1
Introducton to Hansen Ratings
Offensive Coordinator of the Week: Reed Florence
Defensive Coordinator of the Week: Craig Stenbroten
Head Coach of the Week: Peter Stuursma
Reed Florence, Offensive Coordinator at Marietta University, Recognized for Dominating Performance in 55-0 Victory Over St. John FisherNotable Stats:
585 total yards of offense
393 yards passing, 192 yards rushing
9.4 yards per play
Opened the game with a 99-yard, 4-play TD drive
Scored touchdowns on 5 of the first 6 possessions
All touchdown drives covered over 50 yards, including:
99 yards (4 plays)
81 yards (8 plays)
79 yards (6 plays)
70 yards (10 plays)
68 yards (7 plays)
65 yards (1 play)
58 yards (8 plays)
55 yards (2 plays)
Florence is assisted on offense by Pete Nank, Terry Geiger, Adam Eichorn, and Bryce Agnew.Florence’s innovative approach and precise play-calling kept the Marietta offense firing on all cylinders throughout the game, securing an impressive victory and earning him this week’s Offensive Coordinator of the Week honor. Craig Stenbroten, Defensive Coordinator at UW-Oshkosh, Recognized for Outstanding Defensive Performance in Victory Over Wheaton CollegeNotable Stats:
Wheaton averaged 46 points per game in 2023, but Stenbroten’s defense held them to their fewest points since 2021.
All-American RB limited to just 59 rushing yards (99 total rushing yards allowed).
Opened the game with three consecutive 3-and-outs.
Key defensive standout, Ben Wellhoefer, contributed 2 tackles, 1 tackle for loss, 1 interception, and 2 pass breakups.
The longest play allowed by the defense was just 19 yards.
The longest rush allowed was only 10 yards.
Stenbroten’s defensive assistants are Matt McLagan, Alex Jagla, Nicholas Maczurak, Drew Sperry, Kellen Figueroa, Sawyer Moens, Callum Wright, Sam Nienhuis, and Dennis Moon.Under Stenbroten’s leadership, the UW-Oshkosh defense stifled a Wheaton offense that hadn’t scored fewer than 35 points in a game since their last matchup with UW-Oshkosh in 2023. This exceptional defensive effort secured the team’s Week 1 victory and earned Stenbroten this week’s Defensive Coordinator of the Week title.Peter Stuursma, Head Coach at Hope College, Honored for Leading Team to a 49-0 Victory Over Loras CollegeNotable Stats:
Hope College led 42-0 at halftime.
Outgained Loras College by a staggering 662 total yards to 123.
Averaged 8.8 yards per play, while holding Loras to just 2.2 yards per play.
Dominated the first down battle with 29 first downs compared to Loras’ 10.
Scored touchdowns on every first-half drive.
Seven different players recorded rushes of at least 14 yards.
The defense tallied 11 tackles for loss, with 11 different players contributing to the effort.
Stuursma staff is recognized with this honor as well. The Hope staff is Andrew Hawken, Jacob Pardonnet, Hunter Thompson, Matt Bird, Jim Caserta, Jake Vanderveen, Jinks Arnold, KJ Landis, Cal Pimpleton, Ted Manning, and student assistants Zay Hicks, Luke Madsger, and Ty Rynbrandt.Stuursma’s coaching staff executed a balanced, dominant game plan that allowed both the offense and defense to control the game from the opening snap. Their impressive execution in all phases of the game earned them this week’s Head Coach of the Week honors.About 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 11, 2024 • 23min
National Coach of the Week - Antonio Graham, Head Coach, Owasso HS (OK)
In this episode of the National Coach of the Week presented by Modern Football Technology, Coach Antonio Graham discusses his journey leading Owasso High School, including a key victory over perennial powerhouse Jenks High School. He reflects on the mentorship of former head coach Bill Blankenship and emphasizes his commitment to high expectations and accountability, summarized by his motto, "no excuses, high expectations, and perfect execution." Graham addresses challenges in high school football, such as athlete mobility, and highlights the importance of building strong player-coach relationshipsChapters
The Impact of Mentorship
Building Relationships with Players
Preparing for Competition
Maintaining Focus and Motivation
Winning Edge
About Modern Football TechnologyBattle-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

Sep 10, 2024 • 24min
Mid-Season Strategies for Evaluating and Evolving- Aaron Bohl, Defensive Coordinator, Wyoming
In this episode of Coach and Coordinator of the Season presented by Vertical Raise, we speak with Aaron Bohl, the defensive coordinator at Wyoming, about mid-season self-scouting techniques. We discuss the importance of evaluating player performances beyond basic statistics and adjusting for coaching tendencies to enhance game planning. Coach Bohl shares his strategy for prioritizing game film, ensuring focused preparation while avoiding information overload.University of Wyoming head football coach Jay Sawvel announced the promotion of linebacker coach Aaron Bohl to the role of defensive coordinator in January of 2024 Bohl has served as linebackers coach for the Cowboys for the last four seasons and has been with the program since 2017 and will continue to coach the position group. Chapters
Mid-Season Self-Scouting Insights
Evaluating Player Performance
Breakdown of Opponent Strategies
Integrating Self-Scout into Practice
Handling Problem Plays in Practice
Winning Edge
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Sep 9, 2024 • 25min
Add a Wrinkle with Six Back Offense - Joe Matheson, Offensive Coordinator - UW-River Falls
On Today’s Episode of The Season, Joe Matheson, the innovative offensive coordinator at the University of Wisconsin River Falls, joins us. Known for his "Top Gun Offense," Joe introduced us to his latest creation, the "Six Back Offense," inspired by Michael Lombardi's insights, which strategically utilizes all eligibles in the offense as ball carriers, insert blockers, or RPO attachments. The key to this concept is making subtle adjustments to existing plays while involving various players in different roles to outsmart defenses without completely reinventing offensive strategies. We discuss cross-training players to seamlessly integrate the modified plays into practice routines and game plans. Chapters
Implementing the Six Back Offense
Utilizing Players Strategically
Creating Match-ups in Exotic Formations
Involvement of Other Players
Integrating Skills Training in Practice
Developing Trick Plays
Importance of Skill Repetition
Scripting Team Periods
Play Calling Strategy and Implementation
Winning Edge
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:Get in Touch with Your Vertical Raise Fundraising Coachhttps://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.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices