Winning First Down – Montell Allen, Defensive Coordinator, University of Chicago

Today’s episode is about winning first down on defense, and we are joined by Montell Allen, the defensive coordinator at the University of Chicago. He joined Head Coach Todd Gilchrist, Jr.’s staff in February of 2023, and the Maroons are off to a solid start in Coach Gilchrist’s tenure. We dig into several ideas from creating a multiple system while remaining simple so layers can execute, training hybrid players, and keys to growing in the coaching profession. Be sure to stay tuned to our winning edge takeaways and ideas for implementation following the episode. Show Notes: The importance of P&10 Creating the mindset to win first down “High Five” in practice Being able to move from 3 down to 4 down Studying Jim Knowles The Rush/Leo Position Multiplicity through simplicity Terminology structure for one-word calls - weather fronts How many fronts used Bonus fit system for run fits Hang-plug-fold system Using fronts and dealing with mismatches Game planning the fronts Training the Rush LB Keys to evolution as a coach and progressing through the profession Winning Edge Connect on X: @CoachKGrabowski @CoachMAllenFB Coaches mentioned in this episode: Todd Gilcrist, Jr. @CoachTGilrest Jim Knowles @CoachJimKnowles Darrell Meckley @CoachMeck71  Mike Kashurba @Coach_MikeKash Thank you for supporting our partners: Learn More about Playbook Clinics: Playbook Clinics is a new coaching clinic series, reimagined from the ground up. Playbook organizes a Convening Panel of coaches in the region, asks them what they want to talk about, and who they want to hear from. Check them out at www.playbookclinics.com, get your staff registered, and use the code “Keith” to save $50. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices