Advertise on podcast: Mind of a Football Coach

In this episode, Coach Mike Ross shares his extensive experience in football coaching, discussing his journey from a player to a head coach. He elaborates on his coaching philosophy, particularly focusing on the double wing offense, its effectiveness, and how it has evolved in Massachusetts. Coach Ross also touches on defensive strategies, the importance of simplicity in coaching, and the process of mentoring new coaches. He concludes with valuable advice for young coaches starting their careers. X Account for Coach Ross: @coachmikerossWB Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Coach Evan Peterson shares his insights on football coaching, focusing on defensive strategies against the Wing T offense, his coaching journey from Texas to Idaho, and the importance of adapting to different player dynamics. He discusses the challenges of high school football, the significance of building a strong team culture, and the differences between high school and college coaching. Coach Peterson emphasizes the need for both passionate and casual players and coaches to create a balanced and enjoyable football environment. Social Media X: @CoachEPeterson0 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Mind Football Coach podcast, Coach Mike Pucko shares his extensive journey in football coaching, from his early inspirations to his current challenges in rebuilding a struggling high school program. He emphasizes the importance of fundamentals, teamwork, and adapting coaching strategies to fit the available talent. Coach Pucko also reflects on the evolution of coaching methods and the impact of technology on the game, while offering valuable advice for young coaches entering the field. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jon Marshall is the head football coach and athletic director at Randolph High School, where he has transformed the Blue Devils into one of the top high school football programs in Massachusetts. A Marine Corps veteran, educator, and culture-builder, Marshall is widely respected for his leadership both on and off the field. Since taking over the program in 2018, Marshall has led Randolph to historic success, including the school’s first-ever state championship in 2021 and multiple Super Bowl appearances. Under his leadership, the Blue Devils have developed a reputation for toughness, discipline, and a dominant rushing attack, while also emphasizing academic excellence—famously noting that a large portion of his team regularly earns honor roll recognition. Marshall’s coaching philosophy is rooted in accountability and effort, captured in his program’s mantra: “Winners do more.” That mindset has helped turn Randolph into a perennial contender and a model program built on character and consistency. Before arriving at Randolph, Marshall served in the U.S. Marine Corps and later built his coaching résumé at programs like Framingham and Holliston, while also working as a history teacher. His military background and upbringing—heavily influenced by his father, a hardworking veteran—continue to shape his leadership style and commitment to developing young men beyond football. Marshall’s impact has earned him statewide and regional recognition, including the New England Patriots High School Coach of the Year award and multiple Coach of the Week honors. Today, Jon Marshall is more than just a football coach—he’s a mentor, educator, and program architect who has built Randolph football into a championship culture grounded in discipline, resilience, and pride. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Coach Eric Stiegel shares insights from his extensive coaching career at Granville High School in Michigan. He discusses the importance of community, the T offense, and the balance between player development and winning. Coach Stiegel emphasizes the significance of strong athletic programs and the role of dedicated coaches in shaping young athletes' futures. In this conversation, Eric Stiegel discusses the intricacies of coaching high school football, emphasizing the importance of versatility in the backfield, the critical role of a strong quarterback, and the challenges faced by smaller schools in finding elite talent. He shares insights into his offensive philosophy, particularly the T offense, and how it has shaped the identity of his program. Stiegel also reflects on the need to adapt to defensive strategies and the importance of building authentic relationships with players to enhance their experience and success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging conversation, coaches Brian White and Uncle Real 305 share their insights on the significance of the locker room in sports and life. They discuss the sacredness of the locker room, the importance of respect and trust, and how these values can break down societal barriers. The conversation also touches on mental health, the human touch, and the necessity of passion in achieving greatness. They reflect on lessons learned from legendary coaches and emphasize the power of brotherhood and connection in both sports and everyday life. The Locker Room is Not for Sale: Why the Human Touch Always Wins https://a.co/d/034hEz1p Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging conversation, Coach Kyle McElvany shares invaluable insights and experiences from his 21 years in coaching. He emphasizes the importance of foundational skills, mentorship, and the willingness to learn and adapt in the coaching profession. The discussion covers key principles for aspiring coaches, the significance of maintaining health and time management, and the necessity of continuous learning to stay relevant in the ever-evolving landscape of football coaching. Coach McElvany's Presentation: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1Ypnm35qFwpZmPZPjfvcm0RaqjmluQxhivVRkitD2Uwo/edit?usp=sharing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Brian Lewis is a highly regarded high school football coach best known for his leadership of the Howell High School Highlanders in Michigan. Under his guidance, the program has emerged as one of the top teams in the state, highlighted by an undefeated 11–0 start in a recent season and a Kensington Lakes Athletic Association championship victory over a nationally ranked opponent. Lewis’s coaching success has earned statewide recognition, including being named the Michigan High School Football Coaches Association Division 1–Region 1 Coach of the Year. Known for building disciplined, competitive teams, Lewis emphasizes player development, preparation, and a strong team culture—factors that have contributed to Howell’s rise as a consistent contender in Michigan high school football. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Coach Matt Miers shares his extensive coaching journey, from his early days in football to becoming a head coach. He discusses the importance of adapting offensive strategies based on personnel, the challenges of coaching, and his philosophy of investing in the lives of young athletes. Miers also reflects on his experience writing a book about football offense and emphasizes the significance of mentorship and leadership in coaching. Social Media for Coach Miers X: @MiersMatt Coaching the Stacked-I Formation Offense: https://coacheschoice.com/coaching-the-stacked-i-formation-offense/ https://a.co/d/0eARpAlm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Mind of a Football Coach podcast, Coach Brian Smith shares his journey through football coaching, emphasizing the importance of traditional offenses, particularly the stack I. He discusses his coaching philosophy centered around toughness, building relationships with players, and the significance of leadership programs. Coach Smith also provides insights into practice structure, game preparation, and advice for young coaches, highlighting the value of seeking help and focusing on personal development alongside athletic success. Coach Smith on X: @HCBrianSmith Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Zach Davis reflects on the importance of slowing down and enjoying life, particularly in the context of coaching football. He emphasizes the need for self-awareness and the significance of relationships in coaching. Zach shares personal anecdotes about his experiences and the value of focusing on one thing at a time to reduce anxiety. He encourages listeners to embrace their unique coaching identities and to find joy in the process of learning and growing as coaches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Colin McQueen is the head football coach at Amesbury High School in Amesbury, Massachusetts, where he has built one of the most consistent and competitive programs in the region. McQueen took over as head coach in 2017 after serving as the team’s defensive coordinator, stepping into the role at just 28 years old. Since then, he has developed Amesbury into a perennial contender in the Cape Ann League and Massachusetts Division 7 football. Over the course of his tenure, McQueen has compiled a strong winning record—reaching at least 46 career wins by 2024—and guiding the Redhawks to multiple deep postseason runs, including a Super Bowl appearance at Gillette Stadium. His teams are known for a physical, run-heavy “T" offense and a disciplined, hard-nosed defensive identity. Under McQueen’s leadership, Amesbury has captured league titles and posted standout seasons, including an undefeated regular season and a 12–1 campaign in 2025, finishing among the top-ranked teams in the state division. Before becoming a head coach, McQueen was a multi-sport athlete and football player, competing at programs in New England, including Exeter, New Hampshire, and Salve Regina University in Rhode Island. His playing experience on both offense and defense helped shape his holistic approach to coaching. Known for his player-first philosophy, McQueen emphasizes team culture, accountability, and the importance of every student-athlete in the program. His leadership style blends traditional toughness with a strong focus on relationships, mentorship, and community ties. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Zach Davis emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself as a coach, encouraging listeners to embrace their interests and coaching styles. He shares personal anecdotes about his passion for traditional football schemes and the significance of coaching what resonates with them. The conversation highlights the value of authenticity in coaching and the need to keep traditional methods alive in a rapidly evolving sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Coach Doug Pereira reflects on his extensive coaching career, discussing the importance of adaptability in football, the significance of relationships with players, and the self-awareness required to recognize when it's time to step back. He shares insights on the evolution of football offenses, the value of coaching connections, and offers advice for young coaches to embrace their passion for the game. Sound Bites "The best coaches are willing to share." "The game finally beat me a little bit." "The program needs a new voice." "I will miss the relational element of the guys." "Football is cyclical; it always comes back around." "Solid run game and solid defense wins championships." "Embrace the game, enjoy the passion you have for it." "There's nothing in the world like Friday night lights." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this in-depth interview, Coach Manny Matsakis shares his extensive football coaching journey, insights into the run and shoot offense, and advice for aspiring coaches. Discover how he blends innovation with tradition to develop successful teams and foster community impact. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Coach Manny Matsakis's Background 01:08 Early Playing and Coaching Career in Ohio 02:07 Influence of Glenn Ellison and the Run and Shoot Origin 03:23 Transition to College and Professional Coaching 04:42 History of the Run and Shoot and Its Evolution 05:58 Starting the Wheeling Ironman and League Challenges 07:10 Barstool and the Rise of the Continental Football League 08:30 Journey Through College and Pro Football with Notable Coaches 09:45 Differences Between Run and Shoot and Air Raid Offenses 10:42 Teaching the Run and Shoot: Concepts and Drills 12:14 Running the Ball in the Run and Shoot System 14:11 Unique Aspects of Manny Matsakis's Run Scheme 16:23 Innovations in Offense: Motion and Jet Sweeps 18:50 Adapting the Offense Over Time and Success Stories 19:33 Run and Shoot: Under Center vs. Shotgun 20:03 Versatility of the Run and Shoot in Different Formations 21:33 Teaching Under Center and Shotgun Techniques 24:34 The Half Roll and Its Unique Role in the Offense 27:33 Mentorship, Career Advice, and Building Relationships 37:37 Wisdom for Young Coaches and Mentorship Importance 39:51 Closing Remarks and How to Connect with Manny Matsakis Manny Matsakis Website: https://mannymatsakis.com/ Ohio Valley Ironmen: https://www.ohiovalleyironmen.com/ Running the Triple Shoot Offense: https://www.youtube.com/live/y_8-r13G89Q?si=pRsvKXb7VC8MsCXi Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices