Coaching Points from the Coaching Carousel
Dec 17, 2024 10:25 pm
Coach -
The coaching carousel has been active, and with each move comes key lessons on offense and defense. Here are the top coaching points you can learn from the latest changes:
1. Jason Eck – New Head Coach at New Mexico State
Eck brings a proven track record of building programs with a tough, disciplined culture. Expect his approach to align NMSU with a competitive identity quickly.
As a former Offensive Line Coach, you can bet the running game will be a major factor in the Lobos offense. Here’ Coach Eck talking about why he likes mid zone.
2. Jon Kay – Promoted to Defensive Coordinator at Rice
Transitioning from elite Texas high school coaching (117-18, 4 state titles) to college, Kay’s success proves that leadership, preparation, and results at any level translate.
Jon Kay’s Definition of Success:
- Situational Defense: Success isn’t about stats like yards allowed; it’s about getting critical stops when they matter most (e.g., two-point conversions, red zone stands).
- Toxic Differential: The top indicator of success is turnovers and explosive plays – a stat introduced to him by Tom Herman.
- First-Down Efficiency: First-down production is a better predictor of defensive success than third-down stops.
- Daily Emphasis on Fundamentals: Success is defined by what you emphasize consistently in practice – running to the ball, tackling, and using hands effectively.
- Field Position and Hidden Yardage: Controlling field position and minimizing hidden yardage are key contributors to overall success.
He talks about these in this video:
3. Jim Chapin – New Offensive Coordinator at Central Michigan
Chapin’s FCS success at Eastern Washington emphasizes the importance of innovative, dynamic offense as he steps into the MAC. Chapin is known for his passing game expertise, which can be a great compliment to Matt Drinkall’s Power Spread Run Game.
Here is Chapin explaining his Stop Light Progression
4. Jeff Knowles – DC/LBs at Ball State
Knowles brings stability and defensive experience to Ball State, reinforcing the importance of foundational, strong defensive play in building competitive programs.
Coach Knowles talks about a boundary pressure in this next video.
Success always begins with preparation, adaptability, and vision. That’s what these coaches are tasked with as they begin their new jobs. There’s always plenty to learn in this game!
Always be growing!
Coach Grabowski
P.S.
Stay tuned for more moves and insight from coaches on the Coaching Carousel.
These presentations are 50% off for a limited time.
Jon Kay: Defensive Pillars and Defining Defensive Success
Jim Chapin - Pass Game Organization
Jeff Knowles - Circuit Drills & 3 Deep - 2 Under Pressures