

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

Jan 14, 2025 • 1h 9min
The Think Tank - Creating the Structure - Dan Gonzalez, Josh Herring, Dub Maddox
Welcome to the first episode of our brand-new series, The Think Tank, presented by Modern Football Technology. Think Tank is where top minds in football coaching come together to tackle the game’s biggest challenges and explore innovative strategies. In each episode, we’ll dive deep into key topics like offensive and defensive structure, player development, game-day adjustments, trending schemes and concepts, and more – all with insights you can apply directly to your team.Each week, you’ll hear from three different coaches, bringing their unique perspectives, experiences, and game-changing approaches. Whether you’re a seasoned coach or just starting your journey, Think Tank will challenge your thinking and help you take your coaching to the next level.In this Think Tank episode, coaches Dub Maddox, Dan Gonzalez, and Josh Herring dive into creating an effective offensive structure. They explore integrating new coaches into systems, addressing flaws in passing game designs, and adapting to defensive trends. The discussion highlights strategies like leveraging motion and tempo, clear communication for quarterbacks, and the balance between complexity and execution. With insights on option routes, player flexibility, and identifying strengths, they emphasize maintaining an offensive identity while innovating. This conversation is packed with practical coaching strategies and teaching methods to elevate offensive play and player development.Chapters:
Introduction to Offensive Structure
Integrating New Coaches into Established Systems
Identifying Flaws in Passing Game Design
Adapting to Defensive Trends
Innovative Strategies for Offensive Play
Exploring Motion and Tempo in Offense
Conclusion and Resources for Coaches
Understanding Option Routes in Youth Football
Flexibility in Offensive Positions
Identifying Player Strengths Mid-Season
Balancing Offensive Complexity and Execution
Maintaining Offensive Identity Amidst Change
Innovating While Staying True to Core Principles
The Importance of Common Language in Coaching
Effective Teaching Strategies for Football
Concluding Thoughts on Coaching and Learning
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

Jan 13, 2025 • 30min
Creating Havoc to Get Off the Field - Zach Feltrop, Defensive Coordinator, Valpo
In this conversation, Keith Grabowski and Zach Feltrop discuss the philosophy of 'Havoc' in defensive football, emphasizing its importance in disrupting offenses. They explore the metrics of havoc rate, the significance of pursuit goals, and the training methods that create a culture of effort and teamwork. The discussion also covers game planning strategies and adapting defensive schemes to player strengths.Chapters
Introduction to Havoc Philosophy
Understanding Havoc Rate and Its Importance
Pursuit Goals and Team Buy-In
Training for Pursuit and Effort
Game Planning for Havoc
Techniques and Rules for Defensive Success
Creating Confusion for Offenses
Adjustments and Practice Logistics
Transitioning to FCS and Future Goals
Support our Partners:Modern Football TechnologySignature Championship RingsTitan GPS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 9, 2025 • 43min
Student of the Game - Becoming a Coach - Lane Little, WR Coach, Mt. St. Joseph University
A little over a year ago, I met Caleb Corrill through the Coach and Coordinator Podcast. He was fresh off his final season at Mount St. Joseph, where he did an amazing job putting together a high-powered offense. He progressed from a 27-year-old figuring it out to a confident offensive coordinator. Hansen Ratings named him the D3 Offensive Coordinator of the Year, and over his six seasons as the offensive coordinator at Mount St Joe, the Lions have averaged 41.45 points per game and just over 460 yards per contest. The offense has shattered the record books at the Mount.What I enjoyed most about Caleb was his approach to learning the game. He was willing to talk to anyone at any level and learn. This characteristic led to the idea behind this new series, “Student of the Game.” Caleb will be with us throughout the off-season. His first six episodes of the series are focused on learning, researching, and developing at this time of year. You will enjoy his guests and the growth mindset permeating this series. Thank you to Caleb for the time and detail he put into this. He’s even thoughtfully selected the music for the episode, which he told me “is my vibe.” So hang loose and learn some ball. Here’s the first episode of Student of the Game.In this episode of the Student of the Game, Caleb Corrill interviews Lane Little, the wide receivers coach and recruiting coordinator at Mount St. Joseph University. They discuss Lane's journey from an intern to a full-time coaching position, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning, involvement in various roles, and the significance of self-scouting and off-season preparation. Lane shares insights on implementing new ideas and drills, evolving the coaching system, and offers advice for aspiring coaches.Chapters
The Journey
Growth Through Involvement
The Importance of Continuous Learning
Self-Scouting and Offseason Preparation
Implementing New Ideas and Drills
Evolving the System
Advice for Aspiring Coaches
Support our Partners:Modern Football TechnologySignature Championship RingsTitan GPS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jan 8, 2025 • 57min
Sprint-Based Football - The Godfather II - Garrett Mueller, Head Coach, Stewartville HS (MN)
Garrett Mueller, the back-to-back state champion head coach at Stewartville HS (MN), reveals his innovative sprint-based training methods. He discusses the evolution from traditional coaching to a focus on speed, shorter practices, and technology integration. Mueller emphasizes the importance of metrics like the 'truck stick' to evaluate player performance and the need to manage practice loads to prevent injuries. He also highlights the positive culture of coaching and cross-sport benefits for young athletes, showcasing the community impact of his successful program.

Jan 7, 2025 • 39min
Rosters Don’t Win Games, Execution Does - AJ Smith, OC, San Antonio Brahmas
In this episode of the Coach and Coordinator podcast, AJ Smith, the offensive coordinator of the San Antonio Brahmas, discusses the transition from one football season to the next. He emphasizes the importance of analyzing data from the previous season, evaluating roster changes, and adjusting the playbook accordingly. The conversation also touches on the impact of the transfer portal in college football, the significance of finding the right fit between players and plays, and the role of analytics in player development. AJ shares insights on the importance of timing and rhythm in offensive execution, streamlining practice plans, and focusing on basic training plays to enhance game strategy.Chapters
Preparing for the Next Season
The Impact of the Transfer Portal on College Football
Narrowing Down the Playbook
The Importance of Timing and Rhythm in Offense
Basic Training Plays and Game Strategy
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

Jan 6, 2025 • 33min
Be a Healthier Coach in 2025 - Pratik Patel, former NFL Coach
Pratik Patel, a former NFL coach and expert in performance nutrition, shares his insights on optimizing health for coaches. He emphasizes the importance of self-assessment and setting realistic health goals as the new year approaches. The discussion highlights body composition testing, the role of nutrition tailored to individual needs, and the significance of exercise for longevity. Patel advocates for simplicity in health practices, encouraging manageable routines over complex trends to promote long-term well-being. Coaches are inspired to prioritize their health as they transition into a new season.

Jan 5, 2025 • 29min
Best of 2024 - Personal and Professional Growth - PJ Fleck, Head Coach, Minnesota
We wrap up our rundown of our best and favorite episodes of 2024 with a segment of Lauren’s First and Goal Spring Series with Minnesota Head Coach PJ Fleck.Coach Fleck offers plenty of insight into his Row the Boat philosophy. The entire conversation is available on CoachTube on Lauren’s First and Goal channel. The link is in the description.Episode:In this insightful segment from Lauren’s First and Goal Spring Series, Keith Grabowski and Coach P.J. Fleck from Minnesota focus on personal and professional development. The discussion kicks off with a deep dive into the philosophy behind "Row the Boat," a powerful mantra that embodies resilience and unity. Discover the heartfelt origins of this motto and how it shapes the culture of Coach Fleck's team. Gain valuable perspectives on coaching, leadership, and personal growth as Coach Fleck shares his wisdom on navigating challenges, building a strong team culture, and continually striving for excellence. Join us on this engaging journey into the mind of a coach dedicated to empowering his players and creating a positive impact beyond the field.Show Notes
Coach P. J. Fleck on Row the Boat
Symbolism of Row the Boat
The power of the oar in life
Importance of sacrifice in achieving goals
Building big boats for collective success
The significance of the compass in life direction
Focus areas for aspiring elite coaches
Letting go of control for professional growth
Continuous improvement and personal development
Winning Edge
Follow PJ Fleck on Twitter/X @Coach_Fleck.Lauren’s First and Goal on CoachTubeThe 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

Jan 4, 2025 • 43min
Best of 2024 - Overcoming Struggles and Seeking Growth - Kurt Warner, Hall of Fame Quarterback
This was easy to put into our Best and Favorites of 2024. Kurt Warner’s story inspires everyone, whether you are a player, coach, or fan, and he shared plenty of insights that are important to successful coaching. I watched the movie “American Underdog” on a flight to New Orleans in November, so it was cool to see some of the stories he shared in this episode come to life in the movie. Be sure to check out Kurt’s QB Confidential resource, which is valuable for the quarterback and the quarterback coach. Enjoy this episode!Episode:In this Coach and Coordinator Podcast episode, host Keith Grabowski is joined by Hall of Fame quarterback Kurt Warner. Kurt shares insights from his personal journey and lessons learned along the way, highlighting the importance of overcoming struggles, seeking guidance, and not giving up on dreams. The discussion dives into the significance of mentors, positive self-talk, and the inspiration behind Kurt's project, QB Confidential. Kurt emphasizes the importance of making knowledge accessible and understanding the "why" behind coaching decisions.The episode also explores challenges in coaching information, the comprehensive curriculum approach, and the importance of mastering details. Kurt emphasizes the value of repetition and skill building, teaching through stories, and continuous learning and improvement.Furthermore, Kurt discusses the importance of community engagement and mentorship, showcasing his commitment to giving back to the football community. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for coaches and players alike, offering valuable lessons from one of the game's greatest quarterbacks.Show Notes
Personal Journey and Lessons
Overcoming Struggles
Handling Struggles and Growth
Importance of Mentors
Seeking Guidance and Feedback
Not Giving Up on Dreams
Importance of Positive Self-Talk
Significance of Asking Questions
Inspiration Behind QB Confidential
Making Knowledge Accessible
Importance of Understanding the "Why"
Challenges in Coaching Information
Comprehensive Curriculum Approach
Importance of Mastering Details
Importance of Repetition and Skill Building
Teaching Through Stories
Continuous Learning and Improvement
Community Engagement and Mentorship
Winning Edge
QB Confidential:https://qbconfidential.com/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

Jan 3, 2025 • 38min
Best of 2024 - The Go-Go Offense - Brennan Marion, Head Coach, Sacramento State
Best of 2024 - Brennan Marion - Go-Go OffenseIt’s always an honor to have Coach Brennan Marion on the Coach and Coordinator Podcast. I’d like to start by congratulating him in being named as the Head Coach of Sacramento State. I am excited as Coach Marion now begins the Head Coach path on his coaching journey. He’s excelled as an offensive coordinator and there is no donut he will do the same as a head coach.Today’s episode is one of several he’s done with us over the years. We talked about his Go-Go offense and his approach to combining and option attack with a strong passing game. Enjoy!Episode:Brennan Marion, the offensive coordinator at UNLV, joins us to discuss the “Go-Go Offense” on Coach and Coordinator Podcast. He explores the origins and evolution of the offense, emphasizing its strategic approach to combine the option game with a strong passing attack. Coach Marion highlights the importance of adapting the offense to players' strengths and shares his coaching journey, emphasizing continuous learning and adaptation. He introduces the concept of the five Vs in the Go-Go Offense and focuses on team culture, player development, and maximizing talent. We dig into recruiting based on skill set, effective communication, and creating a supportive environment for players. We wrap up the conversation by underlining the importance of togetherness, love, and selflessness among players for team success, expressing optimism for the future of the UNLV Rebels.Show Notes:
Introduction to the Go-Go Offense
Transition to Coaching at UNLV
The Five Vs in the Go-Go Offense
Maximizing Skill Sets in High School Football
Recruiting Strategy Shift
Importance of Love for Teammates in Offense
Winning Edge
Episodes with Brennan Marion:Building Your Position RoomCreator of the Go-Go OffenseThe 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

Jan 2, 2025 • 33min
Best of 2024 - Winning First Down - Montell Allen, Defensive Coordinator, Montana Tech
Today’s Best and Favorites of 2024 is an episode with Montell Allen, now the Defensive Coordinator Montana Tech where he helped the Miners to a #8 NAIA finish and a 9-3 record.I met Montell at the airport on the way back from the AFCA convention in 2024. I was impressed with his approach to the game and enjoyed the conversation which led to this episode on Coach and Coordinator.. Episode: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, to 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@CoachMAllenFBCoaches mentioned in this episode:Todd Gilcrist, Jr. @CoachTGilrestJim Knowles @CoachJimKnowlesDarrell Meckley @CoachMeck71 Mike Kashurba @Coach_MikeKashThe 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


