Coach and Coordinator Podcast

On this episode of the Coach and Coordinator Podcast presented by Modern Football Technology, host Keith Grabowski sits down with former record-setting quarterback Luke Falk to discuss the power of mental strength in sports and life. From his walk-on beginnings to playing under Coach Mike Leach, Falk reflects on how discipline, feedback, and leadership shaped his career — and how those same lessons now guide his coaching and personal growth. The conversation explores how coaches and athletes can separate performance from identity, turn pressure into opportunity, and maintain alignment through honest communication and mentorship. Falk also shares his philosophy of calling “audibles in life” — adapting to change with resilience, humility, and focus — offering actionable takeaways on building mental toughness, strengthening self-awareness, and creating a culture where athletes thrive. Chapters From Walk-On to Mind Mastery The Journey of Mental Strength Performance vs. Identity Feedback and Growth Harnessing Pressure as a Privilege The Importance of Present Focus Breaking the Negative Play Cycle The Power of Alignment in Team Culture Modeling and Mentorship in Coaching Audibles in Life: Adapting to Change The Power of Modeling in Coaching Influence of Successful Coaches Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Luke Falk: @coachlukefalk Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Game Planning Tips: Creating Vertical Shots, Breaking Down Opponents, and Building Better Coverage Presented by Lauren’s First and Goal FoundationHost: Coach Keith Grabowski | Coach and Coordinator Network In this week’s Game Planning Tips, presented by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation, Coach Keith Grabowski brings together insights from three top coaches who share how they prepare their teams across all three phases of the game. Learn how to build explosive plays into your offense, organize your defensive breakdowns for clarity, and design special teams coverage that fits your personnel. Featuring: Caleb Corrill, Offensive Coordinator, Georgetown College Don Dobes, Defensive Coordinator, Dartmouth College Jay Harbaugh, Special Teams Coach, Seattle Seahawks Offense – Caleb Corrill: Creating Vertical Shots Corrill explains how to integrate vertical plays into your base offense by protecting concepts, creating advantageous one-on-ones, and attacking leverage when the defense presents it. Defense – Don Dobes: Breaking Down the Opponent Dobes shares his structured process for defensive game planning — studying backfield sets, formation identity, play selection, and down-and-distance trends to teach clearly and play fast. Special Teams – Jay Harbaugh: Building Effective Coverage Harbaugh outlines how to align your specialists and coverage unit by understanding kicker and punter consistency, player skill sets, and the balance between what you’re defending and what you’re inviting. Offense: Build vertical shots that align with your identity and system. Defense: Organize film breakdown to uncover your opponent’s true tendencies. Special Teams: Match your coverage design to your specialists and player strengths. Overall: Clarity and structure build confidence — and confidence builds speed. Presented by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation This episode is brought to you by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting pediatric brain tumor research and families affected by cancer through the game of football. Since its founding, the organization has raised over $2 million through clinics and community events led by coaches across the country. Learn more, donate, or register for this year’s clinic series at laurensfirstandgoal.org Visit: coachandcoordinator.com Follow on X/Twitter: @CoachKGrabowski Subscribe for weekly Game Planning Tips and conversations with top coaches across every level of the game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Coach and Coordinator Podcast presented by Modern Football Technology, host Keith Grabowski talks with Coleton Hrgich, Offensive Analyst at St. Charles North High School, about how analytics and technology are reshaping coaching. Coach Hrgich shares how he bridges data and decision-making on Friday nights—using real-time analytics to help his staff adjust faster, plan smarter, and execute with precision. The discussion highlights how simplifying tools improves communication, how collaboration drives success, and why embracing Modern Football Technology is key to elevating performance at any level. Listeners will learn how analytics enhance preparation, strategy, and player development in today’s evolving game. Chapters Introduction to Offensive Analytics In-Game Analytics and Workflow Adjustments and Game Strategy Collaboration and Communication Utilizing Data for Game Planning Adapting Technology Mid-Season Conclusion and Future Outlook Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski St. Charles North Football: @SCNFBplayers Modern Football Technology: @modernFB Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week presented by Tully, hosts Logan Hansen and John Snell spotlight three standout leaders from Division III football who show how simplicity, culture, and competition drive success. Russ Phillips, OC at Hendrix College (AR), shares how a “less is more” approach and healthy roster competition have fueled his team’s offensive success and player development. Joel Elliott, DC at Berry College (GA), explains how self-scouting, balance, and preparation keep his defense unpredictable and effective in high-pressure moments. Finally, HC Clayt Birmingham of Wisconsin-Stout reflects on building a lasting team culture through continuity, family involvement, and creative team-building traditions that strengthen relationships and elevate performance. Together, these coaches offer valuable insights into leadership, preparation, and the human side of building great football programs. Chapters Offensive Success and Team Recognition The Philosophy of “Less Is More” Building a Competitive Roster at Hendrix College How Competition Drives Player Development Defensive Dominance at Berry College The Art of Self-Scouting and Breaking Tendencies Adapting to Offensive Strategies and Game Flow Team Football and Preparation for Success Celebrating Team Success and Coaching Longevity Building Team Culture and Relationships at Wisconsin-Stout Innovative Team-Building Activities and Traditions The Role of Leadership and Continuity in Sustaining Program Excellence Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Logan Hansen: @LogHanRatings John Snell: @jsnellbwfb Russ Phillips: @RussHeidiSLC Joel Elliot: @FB_CoachElliott Clayt Birmingham: @BlueDevil_HC Tully: @TullyTracking Presented by Tully — the perfect tool for high school and Division III programs. Tully helps coaches track readiness, performance, and player development so teams can stay strong and confident deep into the season. Learn more at tully.app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of National Coach of the Week presented by Modern Football, Head Coach Reginald Samples of Duncanville HS (TX) shares how relentless practice intensity and trust in his staff have built one of the nation’s premier football programs. Coach Samples reflects on his growth from coordinator to head coach, discussing how stepping back from play-calling allowed him to focus on leadership, program management, and cultivating a winning culture. His insights highlight how disciplined preparation, situational awareness, and a strong coaching foundation create not only better athletes but lasting success. Listeners will take away valuable lessons in leadership, delegation, and the mindset required to sustain excellence on and off the field. Chapters Introduction to Coach Reginald Samples Building Intensity in Practice The Role of a Head Coach Transitioning from Coordinator to Administrator Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Duncanville HS Football: @Duncanville_FB Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Your Call presented by the Headset App, Head Coach Nick Codutti shares his philosophy on building a winning football culture at Klein High School. Coach Codutti emphasizes creating an environment where every player — including the scout team — feels valued and motivated. He explains how recognizing effort, rewarding consistency, and fostering authentic relationships strengthen team cohesion and performance. By prioritizing buy-in and belonging, his program ensures that every athlete contributes meaningfully to the team’s success. Listeners will gain practical insight into leadership, player development, and how small acts of recognition can transform a program from within. Chapters Building a Winning Culture The Importance of Authenticity in Coaching Social Media Recognition Building Buy In Through Various Reward Reinforcements Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Nick Codutti: @coachcodutti Learn More About Our Partner: The Headset App Join the growing number of coaches making the switch and take your game-day decision-making to the next level. Download the Headset App today and start coaching smarter! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the Coach and Coordinator Podcast presented by Modern Football Technology, Devin Bice, Offensive Line Coach at Presbyterian College, shares his inspiring journey from high school to the college ranks. Coach Bice reflects on how the discipline he developed at The Citadel has shaped his approach to coaching and leadership. He emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships, keeping learning engaging for players, and simplifying complex techniques to drive better performance. From mastering the screen game to using creative teaching methods that keep players motivated, Bice offers practical and actionable insights for coaches at every level. Listeners will also gain his perspective on networking, player development, and the mindset required to grow and succeed in the competitive world of football coaching. Chapters The Journey of Coach Devin Bice Coaching Philosophy and Player Engagement Offensive Line Techniques and Training Screen Game Strategies Game Planning and Protection Schemes Advice for Aspiring Coaches Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Devin Bice: @devinbice88 Ready to gain an edge on game night? Modern Football Technology helps coaches make smarter real-time decisions with in-game analytics. It’s simple to get started, and you can be up and running by Friday night. Book a demo today and see the difference this week: https://www.modernfootball.com/demo Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Game Planning Tips, presented by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation, Coach Keith Grabowski highlights three key areas that shape every successful game plan: Offense: How to script your openers and plan your “firsts” for key moments. Defense: How to build a smarter pressure plan using self-scouting and sequencing. Special Teams: How mission clarity and innovative teaching tools drive execution and energy. Through insights from top coaches — Brian Michalowski (Oregon) and Ben Kotwica (Los Angeles Rams) — this episode gives you a framework for preparing your team with intent and precision. 1. Openers and Firsts – Keith Grabowski The first 10–15 plays are more than a start. They’re an opportunity to gather defensive information, establish rhythm, and make pressure-free decisions. Keith explains how scripting and preplanning key “firsts” (like first-and-five or first after a turnover) create consistency and confidence on game day. 2. Creating a Pressure Plan – Brian Michalowski, Oregon Learn how to design pressure packages that fit your players. Coach Michalowski outlines how self-awareness, carry-over teaching (“same-as” concepts), and thoughtful sequencing create aggressive yet disciplined defenses. 3. Mission, Momentum, and Modern Teaching – Ben Kotwica, Los Angeles Rams Coach Kotwica shares how a clear mission defines every special teams play. He also discusses how technology tools like GoArmy Edge enhance teaching, communication, and player engagement — even without scout teams. Script your openers to see and learn, not just start fast. Build defensive pressures with intentional sequencing and player-driven design. Treat special teams as a mission-based phase with clear goals and teaching methods. This episode is brought to you by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting pediatric brain tumor research and families affected by cancer. Founded through the game of football, LFG has raised over $2 million through clinics and community events led by coaches nationwide. 👉 Learn more, donate, or get involved at laurensfirstandgoal.org Visit: coachandcoordinator.com Follow on X/Twitter: @CoachKGrabowski Subscribe to the Coach and Coordinator Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite platform for weekly insights from top coaches across the game. Segment HighlightsKey Takeaways🏆 Presented by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation🔗 Connect with Coach and Coordinator Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Next Move presented by Coach Portal, Keith Grabowski is joined by Erik Pratt, new OC/OL Coach at Gannon University, to discuss the challenges and strategies of pursuing coaching opportunities late in the hiring cycle. Erik shares his personal journey transitioning into a new role at Gannon University, highlighting how family, networking, and adaptability all play a part in making successful career moves. The conversation provides practical advice for coaches, from keeping resumes up to date and building lasting relationships within the coaching community, to staying present in current roles while preparing for unexpected opportunities. Whether you’re navigating Division II coaching demands or considering a late-cycle transition, this episode offers valuable insights into career growth, communication, and taking bold steps forward in your coaching journey. Chapters Navigating Late Coaching Opportunities Building and Maintaining Your Coaching Network Adapting to New Coaching Roles Effective Communication in Career Transitions Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski Erik Pratt: @CoachEPratt Get in the Coach Portal: Sign up for your free 6-month trial today with the code CCPODCAST at ⁠⁠ https://www.coach-portal.com/ and make your next move. Transform your football program with CultureAI! Grab your copy of the CultureAI Book and Workbook at coachandcoordinator.com/cultureai. The CultureAI Workbook is your ultimate guide to leveraging ChatGPT and AI tools to evaluate, align, and elevate your team's culture. Packed with actionable prompts, templates, and real-world coaching examples, it’s designed for coaches who lead with intention and embrace innovation. Streamline your processes and build a stronger, more cohesive team culture all season long. Don’t wait—get started today and take your program to the next level! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of Hansen Ratings D3 Coach and Coordinators of the Week, presented by Tully, hosts Logan and John highlight three standout leaders from the Division III football ranks — each representing the discipline, preparation, and culture that define championship programs. First, Jeff Whitehead, OC at Hardin-Simmons University (TX), shares how adaptability in practice structure, competitive “good-on-good” sessions, and a strong team culture drive offensive excellence. Next, Mason Tomblin, DC at the College of Wooster (OH), discusses the value of consistent, purposeful practice and the crucial role his staff and student assistants play in maintaining defensive sharpness throughout the week. Finally, Brad Spencer, HC of North Central College (IL) reflects on the foundation of his team’s success — from player retention and senior leadership to promote a brotherhood that values every individual’s contribution. Together, these conversations capture the mindset and habits that elevate Division III football programs both on and off the field. Chapters Introduction and Overview of the Coaches of the Week Building a Culture of Accountability and Brotherhood The Importance of Practice Structure and Adaptability Good on Good: Competing Against the Best Balancing Intensity and Safety in Training The Role of Coaching Staff and Collaboration Defensive Preparation and Weekly Practice Rhythm Developing Players Through Leadership and Mentorship Creating a Championship Mindset in Division III Football Player Retention and Building Team Trust Game Day Preparation and Execution Lessons in Legacy, Consistency, and Culture Connect on X: Keith Grabowski: @CoachKGrabowski John Snell: @jsnellbwfb Logan Hansen: @LogHanRatings Jeff Whitehead: @Whitehead_HSU Mason Tomblin: @CoachTomblinCOW Brad Spencer: @CoachSpence_NCC Tully: @TullyTracking Presented by Tully — the perfect tool for high school and Division III programs. Tully helps coaches track readiness, performance, and player development so teams can stay strong and confident deep into the season. Learn more at tully.app Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices