Today’s episode is about winning first down on defense, and we are joined by Montell Allen, the defensive coordinator at the University of Chicago. He joined Head Coach Todd Gilchrist, Jr.’s staff in February of 2023, and the Maroons are off to a solid start in Coach Gilchrist’s tenure.

We dig into several ideas from creating a multiple system while remaining simple so layers can execute, training hybrid players, and keys to growing in the coaching profession. Be sure to stay tuned to our winning edge takeaways and ideas for implementation following the episode.

Show Notes:

The importance of P&10
Creating the mindset to win first down
“High Five” in practice
Being able to move from 3 down to 4 down
Studying Jim Knowles
The Rush/Leo Position
Multiplicity through simplicity
Terminology structure for one-word calls - weather fronts
How many fronts used
Bonus fit system for run fits
Hang-plug-fold system
Using fronts and dealing with mismatches
Game planning the fronts
Training the Rush LB
Keys to evolution as a coach and progressing through the profession
Winning Edge

Connect on X:

@CoachKGrabowski

@CoachMAllenFB

Coaches mentioned in this episode:

Todd Gilcrist, Jr. @CoachTGilrest

Jim Knowles @CoachJimKnowles

Darrell Meckley @CoachMeck71

Mike Kashurba @Coach_MikeKash

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Winning First Down – Montell Allen, Defensive Coordinator, University of Chicago