Coach -

Special Teams Coordinator at Colorado State Tommy Perry’s career is a testament to dedication and adaptability. With 21 years of experience in coaching special teams, his journey has seen him traverse through Division II, NFL Europe, Power Five conferences, and Group of Five schools. 

This extensive background equips him with a nuanced understanding of the game, allowing him to make informed decisions even when the talent pool varies significantly. His emphasis on the importance of passion and commitment highlights a crucial aspect of coaching—maintaining a relentless drive and enthusiasm for the game.

His recent talk provides a comprehensive view into the meticulous planning and strategic thinking that goes into managing special teams effectively. Today we touch on some of the key insights shared by Coach Perry at the 2024 Lauren’s First and Goal Clinic.

The Goal Board

The goal board, as described by Coach Tommy Perry, is a critical tool used to evaluate and measure the success of special teams in various head-to-head matchups during a football game. 

It comprises ten different metrics that the team aims to achieve, with each fulfilled goal marked in yellow. Achieving seven or more of these lofty goals indicates a successful performance on special teams. Perry emphasizes that this board is not just about isolated big plays, such as a blocked punt or a return touchdown, but about a comprehensive assessment of consistent performance across various aspects of special teams. 

The goal board's high standards are akin to those Perry encountered while at the University of Alabama under Coach Saban, adjusted mainly to account for changes like the kickoff touchback rule. This meticulous approach ensures that the special team's contribution to the game's outcome is objectively quantified and continually improved upon.

Video: Goal Board

Game Planning and Weekly Schedules

A significant portion of Coach Perry's approach revolves around detailed game planning and structured weekly schedules. He underscores the necessity of tailoring strategies to fit the unique constraints and advantages of each team, whether in high school or college football. 

By dedicating specific days to different phases—such as punt, punt return, kickoff, and kickoff return—Coach Perry ensures that every aspect of special teams receives focused attention. This segmented approach not only aids in thorough preparation but also allows for adjustments based on the evolving dynamics of the week.

Player Motivation and Utilization

One of the core challenges in coaching special teams is ensuring player motivation and optimal utilization. Coach Perry advocates for the strategic use of players, especially those who are starters on offense or defense. 

By limiting their participation in special teams to one of the four core phases, he balances the need to maintain their performance across the board while leveraging their skills in crucial moments. This strategy also opens opportunities for other players to step up, fostering a culture of readiness and participation throughout the squad.

Analytical Approach and Hidden Yardage Battle

In an era where data analytics significantly inform sports strategies, Coach Perry’s reliance on analytics is noteworthy. He highlights the hidden yardage battle, demonstrating how special teams can crucially influence field position and, consequently, the game's outcome. 

By employing detailed goal boards and head-to-head matchups, he quantifies success beyond singular spectacular plays, focusing instead on consistent performance across multiple metrics. This analytical rigor ensures that every game plan is grounded in empirical evidence, enhancing its effectiveness.

The Importance of Adaptability and Innovation

A recurring theme in Coach Perry’s talk is the importance of adaptability and innovation. He shares insights into how different weather conditions and playing altitudes influence game strategies, especially in Colorado. By continually adapting his plans to accommodate these variables, he ensures that his team is always prepared for the unexpected. Furthermore, his willingness to incorporate new ideas and fakes into the playbook exemplifies a forward-thinking mindset, crucial for staying competitive in high-stakes environments.

Collaborative Efforts and Staff Involvement

Effective special teams management, according to Coach Perry, is not a solo endeavor. He emphasizes the value of collaboration and involving other coaches in the process. By allowing position coaches to present scouting reports and contribute to strategic discussions, he fosters a sense of shared responsibility and engagement. 

This collaborative effort not only enriches the strategic depth but also prepares assistant coaches for future leadership roles, ensuring a continuous cycle of learning and growth within the coaching staff.

Preparation for Special Situations

Finally, Coach Perry’s meticulous preparation for special situations stands out as a hallmark of his coaching philosophy. From detailed reports on referees’ tendencies to thorough weather analysis, every element is scrutinized to leave nothing to chance. His approach to watching TV copies of games, capturing signals, and understanding the personalities of opposing coaches underscores a commitment to leaving no stone unturned. This exhaustive preparation ensures that his team is always one step ahead, ready to capitalize on every opportunity that comes their way.

In conclusion, Coach Tommy Perry’s insights offer a masterclass in special teams management, blending experience, analytical acumen, and strategic innovation. His structured approach, emphasis on player motivation, and collaborative ethos provide valuable lessons for any coach aiming to excel in this critical aspect of football.

Always be growing!

Coach Grabowski