Coach ,

Two young defensive line coaches that I have been impressed with both by their presentations at clinics as well as how their players have peformed are West Virginia’s Andrew Jackson and UTSA’s Siddiq Haynes.

In listening to how they develop the relationships with their players so that they can work together to get maximum performance on the field, these two are doing it right.

It’s not all relationships though, these coaches pay attention to the details and prepare their players for exactly what they will see on game day.

Let’s take a look at a coaching point from each that are valuable for any defense.

Understanding the QB Window

Coach Haynes spends time up front to better understand the strengths and weaknesses of an opponent’s offensive line and quarterback.  This provides important information for both the overall defensive game plan as well as for the pass rush plan.

In this video, he explains the QB Window and how he uses breakdown information to set his players up for success and to get to what he terms as “Sack City.” (click on image for video):

Video: QB Window

Winning on the Goal Line

I had the chance to sit down and talk with Coach Jackson at the NYSHSFCA Clinic on the Coach and Coordinator Podcast.

As mentioned, he’s strong at building relationships with his players and he takes an approach of playing as many defensive linemen as possible while tailoring their skill sets to different situations.

In this video from Lauren’s First and Goal Clinic, he shows the technique and drills which prepare his players to win on tackles on the goal line, stopping the ball carrier in his tracks. He then presents on how it shows up in the game. He notes, “When you make contact with a ball carrier that’s the last yard they should get.” (click on image for video):

Video: Goal Line Tackle

Coach Jackson will be presenting at Lauren’s First and Goal again.  

Be sure to register for the 3rd Annual Lauren’s First and Goal Clinic here:

https://lfgf2023.coachesclinic.com/

The proceeds from this clinic benefit families who have a child undergoing cancer treatment as well as pediatric brain tumor research.

LFGF is not a pass through organization. All of the proceeds go to those who need it and there are plenty. Marianne Loose and her team of volunteers work directly with the families.

Bring your entire staff to this clinic and please make other coaches aware of this opportunity to learn and help others.

Always be growing!

Coach Grabowski

P.S. Get both of these presentations together here and save 40%