Скачать или смотреть Game Planning Tips: Opening Series, Learning Defense, and Punt Coverage Mastery

Episode Summary

In this episode of Game Planning Tips, presented by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation, Coach Keith Grabowski features three coaches who share how they prepare across all three phases of the game — from designing an opening series that sets the tone, to teaching defense through collaborative learning, to mastering anticipation on punt coverage.

These conversations break down how top programs start fast, teach smarter, and coach the smallest details that win games.

What You’ll Learn:

Offense – Creating a Successful Opening Series
Nate Milne, Head Coach – Muhlenberg College
How to build a loose script that allows flexibility while keeping your offense in rhythm. Learn how to break tendencies, get your best player involved early, and open the game with confidence.

“Have a plan, trust it, and do what you do best.”

Defense – Teaching Through Theory Z and the Learning Pyramid
Preston Hadley, Defensive Coordinator – Northern Colorado
How to coach smarter by changing how players learn. Coach Hadley explains his Theory Z philosophy — using peer-to-peer teaching, flipped classrooms, and measurable defensive metrics to build smarter, faster defenders.

“Help them learn how to learn — and then watch them teach each other.”

Special Teams – Mastering Hand Reads in Punt Coverage
Cason Bicknell, Special Teams Analyst – University of Florida
How to teach gunners and tackles to key off the returner’s hands for faster, more controlled coverage. Coach Bicknell breaks down Florida’s Hand Reads Drill and the three keys: fair catch, accepting, and tracking hand reads.

“When you understand the hand reads, you’re never surprised by the returner’s action.”

Key Takeaways:

Use a flexible opening script to start efficiently and adapt quickly.

Create ownership in learning through player-led teaching.

Build elite coverage units with visual keys and anticipation drills.

Presented by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation

Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation supports pediatric brain tumor research and families affected by cancer through football.
Since its founding, LFG has raised more than $2 million through clinics and community events led by coaches nationwide.

Learn more, donate, or register for this year’s clinic series at laurensfirstandgoal.org