Coaching the Quarterback from the Neck Up
May 10, 2024 2:01 pm
Coach -
This week’s installment from Coach Kauffman on “Teach Tech” focuses on the Quarterback…specifically from the neck up.
We can coach all the footwork and mechanics we want, but without great understanding to make the right decision, it all goes for naught.
That’s what Coach Kauffman digs into as he shares coaching points and ideas for coaching the cerebral side of the game for the quarterback from our clinics.
-Coach Grabowski
Cerebral: The Game the QB Plays
Diving into developing a QB, it has to be broken down into many categories. Few have all the traits. That's why there are not 1,000 Peyton Manning's just born for the position and just as few Tom Brady’s develop over the first 25+ years of their lives. But, the better we prepare these individuals, the closer they can get.
Let’s crack this open with Jim Zebrowski.
The Rule of Zero
We start with a base line and with QB’s composure is everything. If they panic the team suffers. Guys like Joe Montana who can point to John Candy in the stands to calm the team in the middle of the biggest games are the guys that win and win a lot. Set this baseline with the rule of zero.
In case you are wondering if it works, it’s helped Zebrowski receive a Broyles Award nomination, helped Kansas reach consecutive bowl games for the second time in program history, and led them to their first winning record since 2008. Oh yeah, and I am sure it trickled down to his son at some point who won the Harlon Hill Trophy and threw for over 5,000 yards and ran for over 500 more. Let’s build on this with Florida Analyst Dan Enos.
After the baseline is established, building a routine and in this case, an acronym for what you want the QB to think, works much like John Gordon’s “one word.” It’s a constant reminder to settle back down, or rely on the preparation among many other things.
Just like the battle is settled during the mental preparation they take during the week, you can get ahead on the mental game and the emotions among other things all year long.
QB Leadership
Taking the next step in teaching the mental side is Coach Bajakian.
It’s a no-brainer here. The QB has to lead, and it all starts in his head. He has to have a belief and confidence that he can get it done and that he fits in his place.
Everything he thinks will be displayed in his body language and can be observed by his teammates and the opposing team. Resilience is met from the confidence built within and through preparation.
Neck Up Knowledge
Taking the final step Ted White leads us through the last piece of developing the mental side of QB play.
Once you have completed building and guiding the athletes through the prior information and steps you can get into increasing their knowledge of the game and how to become a better player. It’s not just through their decision-making but also becoming savvy. The little things will elevate them to the next level and allow them to play more complexly.
As Always,
Compete!
Coach Kauffman
PS. Work on your QB from the Neck Up. These presentations are bundled together for 50% off for a limited time here!
And don't forget...the Quarterback can't pass if he's on his ass. Have your OL Coach attend the C.O.O.L. Clinic headlined by Kansas City Head Coach Andy Reid. This clinic will provide you with a depth of knowledge on offensive line play that no other coaching clinic can
Be sure to register for the 2024 C.O.O.L. Clinic:
https://cool2024.coachesclinic.com/