It’s every coach’s dream—returning a group of experienced, physically gifted linemen who’ve been in the system for years. But as Chris Fisher, Offensive Line Coach at Ridge Point High School, learned firsthand, talent doesn’t always mean readiness.
“We assumed that they knew and were able to do more than what we thought,” Fisher explained. “We knew they had the skills and the tools, but what we didn’t realize was where they were in their understanding of the foundational stuff.” (00:50)
This is the assumption trap, and if you’ve coached long enough, you’ve likely fallen into it. Talent can blind us. Experience can trick us. When expectations are high, it’s tempting to jump into advanced schemes and concepts—only to watch things break down when the basics haven’t been mastered.
Misjudging Talent Can Derail Progress
Fisher’s unit had three large, strong linemen entering their junior year, all with significant varsity experience. On paper, they were everything a coach could ask for. But early in the season, the team struggled.
“Through the first half of the season, really, we were just like, man, why are we struggling so much? What is going on?” Fisher recalled. (01:40)
The root of the problem wasn’t physical. It was communication and inconsistency with foundational skills. Like many coaches, Fisher had assumed their reps over the years meant they had internalized the essentials. In reality, the players needed a reset.
Rebuilding With Simplicity and Fundamentals
Recognizing the issue, Fisher took decisive action. First, he simplified communication on the line. Then, he stripped practice back to the basics—reintroducing fundamental drills and dedicating more time to them than ever before.
“Our everyday drills became a step circuit… just repeatedly over that,” Fisher said. (03:30) The goal was simple: reestablish movement, fit, and control through muscle memory.
These drills not only elevated performance—they restored confidence. Veterans rediscovered technique. Younger players found clarity. And the offense finally hit its stride.
Readiness Comes From Repetition
By the end of the season, Fisher’s group was thriving—even starting a late-season JV call-up on the offensive line. The turnaround served as a powerful reminder: talent might get a player noticed, but only a strong foundation makes them reliable.
When facing Hightower High School, one of the district’s most aggressive defenses, Ridge Point didn’t need to overhaul its schemes. The line held firm using its base rules. Mastery of the basics made that possible.
Conclusion: Never Skip the Foundation
Coaches must resist the urge to rush development just because a player looks ready. In football, as in construction, the foundation supports everything. Fall into the assumption trap, and you risk it all collapsing when it matters most.
Instead, start every season by reaffirming the basics. Drill them until they become automatic. Because as Fisher’s story proves, talent doesn’t always mean readiness—but readiness always leads to performance.
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The Assumption of Readiness: Lessons from a Season of Misjudged Fundamentals- Chris Fisher