Coach ,

This week on the defensive side of the ball we gain insight into what makes a top defense from  the D3 defensive coordinator leading the nation's top defense in 2023, Union College’s Rick Flanders. 

2023 Union College Defense (NCAA D3)

#1 Total Defense, 102.8 yards per game (just 2.06 yards per play) 

#1 Scoring Defense, 3.5 points per game

Let’s take a look at how he views the game and coaching defense.

The Game Has Changes - So Should Your Coaching

In his presentation at the NYSHSFCA Clinic, Coach Flanders explained how the game of football has changed over the years. He highlighted the shift from defending against various offensive styles to now facing wide-open, pass-heavy offenses with three or four wide receivers. He noted that in the past, defenders had to be prepared for different types of offenses, but for a while, option responsibilities were not a significant concern. 

However, the game has evolved, and offenses have become more skilled at attacking both vertically and horizontally, making it necessary for defenders to adapt their strategies accordingly.

Furthermore, Coach Flanders addressed the safety aspects of the game, emphasizing the importance of coaching players to tackle physically but safely. 

The changes in rules regarding targeting and defenseless players, highlighting the need to teach proper tackling techniques to avoid penalties. He recalled a time when players had more fun playing DB. There’s been a shift in player preferences, with wide receivers now finding the game more enjoyable compared to defensive backs. Coach Flanders emphasized the need to make the defensive side of the game equally engaging and fun to attract and retain players in that position.

Here is coach explaining his beliefs:

Video: The game has changed - make it fun!

You Can Play Any Defense and Win

Coach Flanders believes that any defensive strategy can lead to winning a national championship as long as the players and coaches believe in it and can effectively teach it. 

He emphasizes the importance of fundamental skills such as toughness, tackling, and disrupting blocks, which are crucial regardless of the defensive package being used. Coach notes that while time can be spent on drawing up blitzes, an equal amount of time should be dedicated to practicing fundamental techniques for successful outcomes.

“I'm a believer that you can win the national championship playing any conceptual way defensively. Whether you want to be a 3-4 defense that plays with quarter coverage, or you want to be a 4-2-5 that plays with man-free, or you want to be a wild blitzing defense and play cover zero, you can win doing all of them.”

He also points out that regardless of the era and trends of offense things that have stood the test of time and are universal on defense:

-Control the run

-Eliminate big plays

-Win the turnover battle

-Win situations

Coach Flanders talked about these in this clip:

Video: You can play any defense and win

Be Good at the Basics

Coach Flanders emphasized the importance of controlling the game by dividing the field vertically and not giving up big plays. 

The strategy of keeping the ball in front of them to have the opportunity to turn it over and be physically intimidating is essential to playing great defense.

Coach also highlighted the significance of tackling techniques, teaching players to tackle from the inside out and outside in, with the aim of stopping the opponent's progress and preventing them from gaining extra yards. 

He stressed the importance of fundamental tackling drills and asserted that being physical and having fun while tackling can lead to success in the game of football.

He explains and illustrates on this game video clip:

Video: Be Good at the Basics

As Coach Flanders pointed out, the best teams are those who can be smart with adjustment while keeping a focus on the fundamentals.

Good luck as you prepare for another week!

Always be growing!

Coach Grabowski

P.S. 

Defending National Champion North Central College is #2 in Total Defense allowing 140 yards per game 2.82 yards per play and #2 in Scoring Defense at 4.33 ppg.

Defensive Coordinator Shane Dierking has presented twice in our clinics:

Manipulating Gaps

Defending Empty Formations