Jason Mangone | Head Coach, Brockport
Presented by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation
Know the Box, Own the First Level
When Brockport attacks odd fronts, everything starts with identifying the box. Additionally, for coaches focused on attacking odd front run game structures, this step is essential. For Jason Mangone, the center is the catalyst of the entire run-game operation — he IDs the front, numbers the linebackers, and anchors the blocking plan.
An odd front for Brockport is defined quickly:
Center covered + both guards uncovered = Odd.
From there, Mangone simplifies the teaching:
- Block the first level first — never bypass down linemen.
- Control the backside end with a fullback, tight end, or QB read.
- Number the linebackers from play-side back to backside.
“If you skip someone on the first level, you’re in trouble. First level is always the priority.”
Downhill Philosophy
Inside zone is the backbone of their odd-front attack. Moreover, Brockport teaches the RB three options — bang, bounce, or bend — but the intention is always downhill, which reinforces their attacking odd front run game approach.
Every OL position has a gap priority:
C-gap → guard’s B → center’s A → backside fits driven by formation and personnel.
Handle Movement: Spike and Long Stick
To continue effectively attacking odd front run game looks, Mangone trains his line to recognize two forms of DL movement early:
- Spike: one-gap movement
- Long Stick: two-gap movement
Consequently, these movements change the combinations, angles, and responsibility of each blocker.
Three Pressures You Must Handle
Brockport prepares for three common odd-front pressures. Furthermore, mastering these pressures is critical for any team attacking odd front run game defenses:
- Mid-Edge: long stick from the 4-tech to A, B-gap LB, edge player
- Curve: a slant or long stick with two ends off the edge
- B-Loop: OLB looping into play-side B
“These three show up over and over. If you can block them, you can run the ball versus odd.”
Consistent Results Through a Disciplined Plan
The result is a simple, disciplined framework that lets Brockport run inside zone at high efficiency regardless of movement, pressure, or front variation. Ultimately, this approach strengthens their ability in attacking odd front run game scenarios.
Related:
Quickcast: The Power of Simplicity – Jason Mangone, Head Coach/OC, SUNY Brockport
Creating a Top Defense – Mike Fox, Defensive Coordinator, SUNY Brockport
More on Coach Jason Mangone
About Coach and Coordinator Media
Coach and Coordinator Media is the leading daily football coaching podcast and educational platform, featuring interviews with elite coaches from the NFL, NCAA, and high school ranks. With 1.5 million downloads per year and a community of 20,000 coaches, we’re committed to developing the “10% Coach”—those dedicated to excellence and continuous growth.