Coach -

Coverage is only part of it. If you’re not finishing on the ball, you're giving up yardage that should’ve been yours.

That’s the foundation of Coach Ola Adams’ DB philosophy at Indiana—and it's why the Hoosiers finished top 10 in Power 4 interceptions and passing yards allowed last season.

In his clinic, Defensive Back Fundamentals, Coach Adams breaks down how to train ball disruption, physical finishes, and footwork that translates directly to game-day plays.

“The Ball Is Everything”

Coach Adams opens with a story:

“Guy drops his daughter to catch a foul ball at a baseball game. Why? Because the ball is everything.”

That mindset drives his drills. Every movement—from T-steps and shoulder leverage to high/low finish angles—is about separating the receiver from the football. His DBs don’t just cover—they attack the catch point, disrupt timing, and finish with intent.

“Pull the arms. Take him to the ground. He’s more worried about his face hitting the turf than catching the ball.”

Teaching Footwork That Finishes

• Skate technique into breaks
• Slant break angles and finish mechanics
• Basketball-inspired COD drills for suddenness
• Situational tackling: ranger routes, glance throws, and red zone breaks

Coach Adams layers these fundamentals into every rep so players know how to win the rep, not just survive it.

Video: Finishing

#19 Indiana: 2025 Outlook

After an 11-win season and a playoff run, Indiana returns with legit staying power. The front seven is dominant, the secondary makes plays, and the system under Cignetti and Shanahan is built to last.

Strengths:

• Veteran skill players and a deep OL
• Explosive, efficient offense
• Front seven with pass rush depth
• Experienced secondary built to finish

Concerns:

• Can Mendoza replicate Rourke’s efficiency?
• Young LB group must grow quickly
• Schedule brings tougher competition
• Secondary depth could be tested

More from Coach Adams:

Organized Chaos - Ola Adams

Disrupt routes. Finish on the ball.

Coach Grabowski & The CoachesClinic Team