D3 Football

One Word Defense

Dan Bauder, the Defensive Coordinator for the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, took a page out of the offensive playbook and incorporated a one-word call system into his defensive playbook. This approach, rooted in his journey through various traditional systems, reflects his belief in simplifying communication to maximize players’ speed and understanding on the field. The Journey…

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Jim Catanzaro’s Five Questions for Decision-Making

Coach Jim Catanzaro doesn’t make decisions on a whim. As the head coach at Lake Forest, Catanzaro drives every choice with purpose. He developed a five-question framework that aligns every decision with the program’s core values, builds its brand, and primes the team for peak performance. This framework benefits not only the players but also…

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Managing Quarterback Workload

Managing a quarterback’s workload is crucial for peak performance throughout the season. From early-season arm care to late-season tapering, learn effective strategies that balance physical and mental reps, ensuring QBs stay sharp and healthy. Coach Mason Espinosa shares his insights on optimizing practice routines for maximum efficiency.

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Game-Ready Every Day

Coach Eric Jendryzak’s efficient practice methods at TCNJ are setting a new standard in football preparation. Discover his game-like drills, strategic timeouts, and complementary football approach that drive success on the field.

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Boundary Attack

Shawn Glosek, Offensive Coordinator at Washington & Jefferson, has developed a precise approach to attacking the boundary, leveraging defensive tendencies and creating quick, efficient gains. In a recent conversation on the Coach and Coordinator Podcast, he shared his thoughts on how he and his staff use boundary plays to keep defenses off balance and maximize…

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Constant Evaluation for Continuous Improvement

The Hardin-Simmons Cowboys, under the leadership of head coach Jesse Burleson, thrives on a foundational principle of constant evaluation. This approach goes beyond typical game-week adjustments; it is a daily practice that drives the program’s success. Burleson emphasizes that while constant evaluation is a broad concept, it must be focused to ensure the team is…

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The Sweet Spot of Defensive Game Planning

We are nearing Halloween, and chasing ghosts might seem like the seasonal thing to do. Unless you are a defensive coordinator. Defensive game planning can sometimes feel like chasing ghosts. With countless offensive schemes and potential adjustments, it’s easy to get lost in the possibilities of what the opposition might do. The challenge for coaches…

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Building a Strong Unit Through Teaching, Challenging, and Encouraging

As coaches, we all strive to develop not just athletes, but leaders on and off the field. But how do you create an environment where players take responsibility not only for their growth but also for the improvement of their teammates? Brent Allen, Offensive Coordinator at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, has a simple yet effective…

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Balancing Head Coaching and Coordinating Roles

In most of the coaching profession, especially at the high school and small college levels, coaches often wear multiple hats. For many, the combination of head coach and coordinator can feel like juggling two full-time jobs. The task is challenging, but many coaches, like Bethel University’s Mike McElroy, work to master it. In his first…

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Jeff Simmons Shares His Keys to Film Study to Block More Punts

Carnegie Mellon dominated punt blocking in 2023, and they are continuing that trend in 2024. The Tartans led the nation in 2023 with 10 blocked kicks, including eight blocked punts. In 2024, they currently hold the top spot again, with three blocked punts and six blocked kicks so far. For special teams coordinator Jeff Simmons…

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