Summer Defensive Line Drills
What follows is a SAMPLE from the DRILL MENU for the summer. Most of these drills are, of course, also used in the spring and fall but these are what the guys get for their summer work wherever they are….
Defensive Fundamentals
I would like to share some defensive fundamental categories that we have established and practiced throughout spring and that carry us all through the summer. The beauty of these fundamentals is that they can be practiced with little to no…
Ideas to Test in Spring Practice
Spring practice is a time for coaches to develop their players in every way without the pressure of real games. Most importantly, the fundamentals (blocking and tackling) of the game have the opportunity to be retaught and emphasized while creating…
Environmental Dynamics
We have just returned as a defensive staff at Cornell from a professional development trip visiting the United States Naval Academy football program. First things first, every football coach should attempt to experience the Naval Academy in person as well…
Defensive Line Fundamentals
IT ALL STARTS UP FRONT! What follows below are the basics for our defensive line play at Cornell. The base progression format has been taken from a common defensive line teaching structure developed and implemented by many others and may…
The Vacation Season Provides Energy for the Real Work
As we are wrapping up the major college recruiting dead period and the rest and relaxation period that most people (especially football coaches) get to enjoy this time of the year, we are set to embark on the heavy lifting…
On the Road Again
The recruiting on-the-road “contact” season has begun. As I wrapped up the first home visit of this time of year tonight, I was struck once again by how much fun it is to have the opportunity to play a part…
Small Target, Tight Hands
The number one detail that we have been attempting to emphasize to our defensive line this fall is to play with their hands at all times. This fundamental and technique detail is true for most positions as most all coaches…
Recruit and Develop
The title of this article is a phrase that I first became aware of when hearing Greg Schiano speak at the New York State High School Coaches Clinic in February of 2008. Up to that point, I can honestly say…
Special Teams Pyramid of Excellence
2012 SPECIAL TEAMS PYRAMID OF EXCELLENCE stolen from John Wooden, etc.. and used to frame our teaching progression on Special Teams.