How the Seahawks and Patriots Assistants Teach the Game

On Super Bowl Sunday, as the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots prepare to meet on the game’s biggest stage, this episode of the Coach and Coordinator Podcast looks beneath the surface of execution.

Over the last six years, assistant coaches from both organizations have appeared on the podcast and in Coach and Coordinator Network clinics. Different staffs. Different roles. Different seasons. But when their conversations are placed side by side, a shared teaching mindset emerges.

This episode brings those voices together to examine how NFL assistants think about preparing players to perform when decisions must be made quickly and mistakes are magnified.

Rather than focusing on schemes or play design, the discussion centers on how the game is taught day after day, long before kickoff.

Jeff Howard, Safeties Coach, Seattle Seahawks

Howard explains why defensive execution begins with understanding offensive intent, not simply reacting to formations or motion. By studying what offenses are trying to accomplish in specific situations, defenders are better equipped to anticipate problems instead of chasing them.

Jay Harbaugh, Special Teams Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks

Harbaugh breaks down how performance improves when players are placed in roles that match their physical traits, experience level, and mental capacity. From veteran core players to young contributors, assignment design matters as much as effort.

Andrew Janocko, Quarterbacks Coach, Seattle Seahawks

Janocko discusses why quick game concepts remain a foundation across successful offenses. High-percentage throws, reduced hits, and defined reads help quarterbacks find rhythm while protecting the offensive line and creating catch-and-run opportunities.

Jake Peetz, Pass Game Coordinator, Seattle Seahawks

Peetz connects practice design to late-game execution. He explains how pocket movement and lower-body mechanics must be trained consistently so quarterbacks rely on ingrained habits when the game is on the line.

Chris Partridge, Outside Linebackers Coach, Seattle Seahawks

Partridge outlines how defensive rules simplify decision-making under pressure. By eliminating unnecessary movement and defining responsibilities, players can react decisively in high-leverage situations.

Jason Houghtaling, Assistant Offensive Line Coach, New England Patriots

Houghtaling explains why standards, not just rules, determine how teams play. From eye placement to footwork and finish, consistent expectations shape physical play and accountability across a program.

Justin Hamilton, Cornerbacks Coach, New England Patriots

Hamilton closes the episode by addressing modern roster dynamics. He emphasizes the importance of helping players understand how they fit, why their role matters, and how ownership drives long-term development and buy-in.

This episode is made possible through conversations hosted by:

Lauren’s First and Goal

Pennsylvania Scholastic Football Coaches Association

Louisiana Football Coaches Association

Their clinics continue to provide spaces where coaches share real teaching practices across levels of the game.

If this episode resonated, you can continue learning at the Lauren’s First and Goal Clinic, held February 19–21.

The clinic features coaches like Chris Partridge and supports pediatric brain tumor research and cancer services.

• Learn more and register at https://lfgclinic.com/

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