

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

Aug 27, 2024 • 24min
Finding Your True Identity on Defense - Blake Harrell, Defensive Coordinator, East Carolina
In this episode of the Coaching Coordinator Podcast, Blake Harrell, the defensive coordinator and inside linebackers coach at East Carolina, discusses the evolution of a team's identity during the early stages of the season. Coach Harrell highlights the importance of flexibility and adjusting strategies to align with the team's strengths and weaknesses. He shares insights on East Carolina's transition to a three-down defense in 2021, emphasizing the need to tailor game plans to player skills. The conversation covers leveraging analytics, player feedback, and building depth in the team. Harrell also touches on practice strategies to enhance communication and preparedness, stressing the significance of player rotations and building confidence for adapting to challenges throughout the season.Chapters
Finding Our True Identity
Analyzing Early Season Evaluations
Making Effective Defensive Pivots
Developing the Next Man Up
Managing Player Workload and Depth
Implementing Smart Defensive Rotations
Winning Edge
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Aug 26, 2024 • 19min
Establishing an Identity and Explosives - Terence Archer, Offensive Coordinator, Delaware
Terence Archer joined the staff at Delaware in December 2021 and was promoted to offensive coordinator before the 2024 season. During his time at Delaware, Archer played a big role in the team's consecutive playoff appearances and in developing the passing offense, which ranked 22nd nationally in 2023. Before Delaware, Archer spent eight seasons at Sam Houston, where he helped the team to a national championship and multiple Southland Conference titles.On today’s episode of our Season Series, we focus on early season preparation and establishing an identity based on the personnel strengths of the offense. We talk about keys to developing identity and explosiveness in the offense.Chapters:
Preparing in Season- Early
Establish who we are
Finding out who personnel is and what we are good at
First couple weeks to guys
Plan to be successful
Base established early and often
Keys - ball security
Creating explosives - explosive play in a drive % of TD way up
Get the ball to the best players
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Multiple fundraising solutions to fit all your program needs
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An in-person local fundraising coach walks your team through every step of the process.
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Aug 22, 2024 • 26min
Champions- Limit Stress to Maximize Success - Seth Parr, Head Coach, Anna HS (TX)
Seth Parr, the head football coach at Anna High School, has rapidly transformed the Coyotes into a powerhouse since he arrived in 2021. Initially unfamiliar with Anna, Parr was drawn to the town by the potential he saw during his first visit, and his intuition proved correct. Coming off a challenging 3-7 season, Parr led the Coyotes to a 7-3 record in his first year, laying the foundation for even greater success. By 2022, Anna achieved an unbeaten regular season and a deep playoff run, and in 2023, Parr guided the team to a historic 15-1 season, culminating in a dominant 26-0 victory in the Class 4A Division I state championship. Under Parr's leadership, the Coyotes have embraced a winning culture and are set to continue their ascent as they move into Class 5A.In this episode of the Champion Series presented by Signature Championship Rings, Coach Parr shares insights on effective preseason training for football. He emphasizes starting early with a "chunk and chew" approach to enhance player learning and confidence. Coach Parr highlights the importance of balancing physical training and mental preparedness during fall camp, as well as delegating responsibilities on Game Day to maintain focus. He advocates for self-care practices to ensure mental clarity, asserting that thorough preparation leads to reduced stress and success on Game Day. His strategies provide valuable guidance for coaches in the 2024 season.Chapters
Season Preparation Strategies
Game Day Readiness
Personal Preparation for Coaches
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

Aug 21, 2024 • 28min
Leveraging Technology for Optimizing Player Development - Ryan Larsen, Head Coach, Carnegie Mellon
In this episode, we speak with Ryan Larson, head coach at Carnegie Mellon University, whose football program consistently ranks in the top 25. We explore his innovative strategies for enhancing player performance through a comprehensive knowledge base that aids learning.Ryan discusses how the pandemic prompted a shift to technology for recording training sessions and meetings, improving player retention. He shares how organized video resources allow new recruits to catch up quickly and how immediate feedback from recorded practices empowers players to learn at their own pace.We also touch on the logistical aspects of maintaining this knowledge base, emphasizing its benefits for communication and efficiency in coaching. Chapters
Introduction to Coaching Techniques
Building a Knowledge Base
Maximizing Practice Time
Adapting to Player Needs
Special Teams Success
The Importance of Timing
Creative Teaching Methods
Organizing Video Resources
Accountability in Coaching
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:Be sure to sign-up for our weekly newsletter. Every Tuesday morning, we email out our Weekly Tip Sheet Newsletter – the best ideas from recent Coach and Coordinator Podcast episodes, as well as additional coaching development resources and recommendations sourced specifically for the 10% Coach. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 20, 2024 • 21min
The Top 22 Strategy: Depth and Flexibility - Alex Gray, Defensive Coordinator, John Carroll
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. ChaptersIntroduction to Building DepthThe Top 22 ConceptAdapting Practice for VersatilityGame Day ApplicationImpact on Coaching StaffWinning EdgeDeveloping 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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 19, 2024 • 31min
The 8 Stressors That Equalize a Defense - Brad Glenn, Offensive Coordinator, Cincinnati
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
Be sure to checkout our partner 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.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 16, 2024 • 1h 22min
Q&A with Dan Dorazio, Legendary Offensive Line Coach
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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Aug 15, 2024 • 17min
Using Adversity to Build Unity - Nick Sorrell, Head Coach, Highland HS (ID)
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.ChaptersBuilding Team Unity Amidst AdversityAdversity as a Catalyst for SuccessCommunity Support and UnityLessons Learned and Moving Forward Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aug 14, 2024 • 22min
Maximizing Special Teams Practice - Bill Brest, Special Teams Coordinator, Grove City
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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Aug 13, 2024 • 25min
Title: KILT Style - Jason Couch, Head Coach, Alma College
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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