The Left Hash Call

There is no single path to becoming a college football coach.Luke Shively certainly didn't take a conventional one.After growing up in small-town Indiana, Shively walked on at Northern Illinois and eventually made 39 consecutive starts at center. When his playing career ended, he initially had no plans to get into coaching — and actually turned down his first opportunity to become a graduate assistant.He eventually took the job.What followed was five years as a GA at Temple and Duke, learning under coaches like Rod Carey, Mike Elko and Adam Cushing before deciding it was finally time to run his own room.That opportunity took him to Wisconsin-River Falls, where he became the Falcons' offensive line coach before eventually returning home to Indiana to coach at Butler.In this episode of The Left Hash Call, Luke joins Seth to talk about his unconventional path through college football, surviving the GA grind, what he learned at the Power Four level, betting on himself by leaving Duke, coaching offensive line, finding the right fit at Butler and why great coaches can find a way to succeed at any level."If you can coach football, you'll find a way."

East Carolina offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Jordan Davis joins The Left Hash Call to break down his journey from walk-on wide receiver at Texas Tech to becoming one of college football’s rising offensive minds.After years working alongside Eric Morris at Incarnate Word, Washington State and North Texas, Davis is stepping out on his own at ECU with the opportunity to call plays and build the next evolution of his offense.We talk about why he chose East Carolina, what he learned from Morris and Kliff Kingsbury, how his offensive philosophy has evolved, and what actually goes into building an offense that consistently produces at an elite level.Jordan also takes us inside his weekly game-planning process, including his staff “Idea Board,” how he builds a call sheet, why he keeps a “no-call sheet” after games, how he gets quarterbacks back into rhythm, and why explosive plays and situational football matter more than chasing a perfect run-pass balance.We also get into his path from Southwestern Oklahoma State to Texas Tech, developing Drew Mestamaker at North Texas, receiver development, studying offenses around the country, coaching in the transfer portal era, and the lessons he would pass along to the next generation of coaches.Subscribe to The Left Hash Call for conversations about the people, culture and ideas shaping football.

When Rocky Larson took over at Mayville State, the football program needed more than a few tweaks. The roster had just 28 players, the team GPA sat at 2.11, players weren’t lifting together, class attendance was an issue, and the program had posted just one winning season since 1990.Seven years later, the picture looks completely different.On this episode of The Left Hash Call, Seth Howard sits down with Mayville State Head Football Coach and Athletic Director Rocky Larson to talk about what it actually takes to rebuild a college football program.Rocky shares how his coaching career unexpectedly began at UW–River Falls as an 18-year-old student assistant, what he learned working under Matt Walker and during his time at Minnesota, and why relationships have remained at the center of his coaching philosophy.They also dive into:Taking over a program that needed a completely new identityWhy Mayville State moved toward the triple optionBuilding a roster from 28 players to nearly 140Creating a culture where players actually stayBalancing life as a head coach, athletic director, play caller and fatherThe importance of having people around you who will tell you the truthWhy young coaches shouldn’t try to skip the difficult stages of the professionWhat Rocky learned from rebuilding UW–River Falls before doing it himself at Mayville StateWith 18 starters returning and expectations around the program rising, Mayville State enters the next stage of a rebuild that has taken years to construct. As Rocky puts it, expectations are a privilege — because seven years ago, the expectation was simply to survive.At the end of the conversation, Rocky delivers one of the strongest pieces of advice we’ve heard for young coaches: don’t skip the hard parts, find people who will tell you the truth, and build your career alongside the right people.@thelefthashcallTwitter/X: https://x.com/thelefthashcallInstagram: /thelefthashcallFacebook: /thelefthashcallTik Tok: /thelefthashcall#Coaching #CFB #LHC

South Dakota head coach Matt Vitzthum joins The Left Hash Call to break down his journey from small-town Iowa to leading one of the premier programs in FCS football.Vitzthum’s path started at Wartburg College, where he transitioned from player to student assistant and discovered his future in coaching. From there came stops at St. Cloud State and Wittenberg before an 11-year run at Grand Valley State, where he eventually became offensive coordinator.In 2024, he joined South Dakota and helped the Coyotes win a share of the Missouri Valley Football Conference championship and reach the FCS semifinals. Now, he takes over as the program’s head coach.

Brian Polian has experienced college football from nearly every possible angle.He grew up around the Buffalo Bills during their run to four consecutive Super Bowls, began his coaching career under Nick Saban at Michigan State and later coached at programs including Notre Dame, Stanford, Texas A&M and LSU. He also served as the head coach at Nevada before returning to his alma mater, John Carroll University, where he is now the head football coach and vice president for athletics.In this episode of The Left Hash Call, Polian shares the Nick Saban lesson that has stayed with him throughout his career, explains what separates winning football teams from undisciplined ones and discusses why the modern college football system has become increasingly transactional.He also breaks down why coaches must adapt when leading Gen Z athletes, why relationships remain the foundation of effective coaching and how returning to Division III helped him rediscover one of the purest forms of the game.

Brennan Marion’s journey is one of the most unconventional stories in college football.Before becoming Colorado’s offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach under Coach Prime, Marion went from an overlooked military kid to junior college, lived with eight people in a one-bedroom apartment, became a record-setting receiver at Tulsa and fought through injuries that ended his professional playing career.Coaching gave him a second life.In this episode, Brennan explains how his earliest coaching experiences shaped him, how one playoff loss helped inspire the Go-Go Offense and why he continued betting on his own system when more traditional career paths were available. That offense eventually helped transform programs, produce one of the greatest upsets in college football history and earn recognition from John Madden’s family.We also discuss:Why he left a head-coaching position to join Coach Prime at ColoradoThe origins and evolution of the Go-Go OffenseLiving in a locker room during his junior-college journeyHow his first players helped save his life after footballBuilding winning programs with limited resourcesWhat he learned from Gus Malzahn, Mike London, Steve Sarkisian and Mark WhippleHis approach to developing young quarterbacksWhy coaches should stop chasing the next job and make their current opportunity greatBrennan’s philosophy is simple: do great work, serve the people around you and trust that your gift will eventually create opportunities you could not have predicted.Hosted By Seth Howard & Dan CaseyProduced By Sizzle Media

At Iowa, special teams are not an afterthought. They are part of the program’s identity.In this episode of The Left Hash Call, Iowa Special Teams Coordinator Chris Polizzi shares the winding coaching journey that brought him through Central Methodist, UCLA, Utah, Iowa, Western Carolina, Tennessee Tech, UT Martin and Tulsa—and ultimately back to Iowa City.Polizzi discusses the relationships that opened doors throughout his career, what he learned working under coaches such as Kyle Whittingham, Kirk Ferentz and Norm Parker, and why becoming a coordinator is more about managing people than installing a playbook.He also explains how Iowa builds its special teams culture, why the entire coaching staff is involved, how players can create value and earn a role through special teams, and the responsibility he feels to “leave the jersey in a better place.”This conversation is about much more than punting, coverage units or scheme. It is about relationships, leadership, family, player development and becoming a steward of something bigger than yourself.

Welcome to Crash Course, a new series from The Left Hash Call breaking down football concepts, systems and ideas with the coaches who actually teach them.In this episode, Drake University offensive coordinator Joe Matheson gives us a crash course on the Top Gun Offense — an aggressive, ultra-tempo system built around relentless pace, quarterback involvement in the run game, RPOs and freedom within the system.We break down how the offense uses numbers, leverage and grass to find space, why adding the quarterback as a runner creates problems for a defense, how base concepts are layered into explosive play-action shots, and why giving players freedom after the snap can make a simple system incredibly difficult to defend.From averaging more than 90 plays per game to producing over 3,000 rushing yards and 5,000 passing yards in a season, this is an inside look at the philosophy behind one of the most productive offenses in college football.Subscribe for more Crash Course episodes breaking down the game with coaches from across college football.

Dordt offensive coordinator Levi Jungling joins The Left Hash Call to talk about one of the most unique journeys in college football.Before he was calling plays for one of the NAIA’s most productive offenses, Jungling was one of the best receivers in Dordt history — and at one point, he was literally coaching the receivers while still playing.In this episode, Levi breaks down his path from Pella Christian to Dordt, the influence of Coach Joel Penner, what it was like becoming an offensive coordinator in his early 20s, how he sees option football, why calm matters on game day, and how faith shapes the way Dordt builds its program.This one gets into football, leadership, identity, play calling, family, faith, and what it means to keep making college football great.

UW–River Falls reached the top of Division III football by winning the first national championship in program history. Then, almost immediately, everything changed.Head coach Matt Walker departed for Drake, members of the coaching staff followed, and Jake Wissing was presented with a career-defining decision: leave for a Division I opportunity or stay and lead the program he had spent 15 years helping build.He chose River Falls.In this episode of The Left Hash Call, Seth Howard sits down with the new head football coach at UW–River Falls to discuss the emotional aftermath of the national championship, the first team meeting after Walker’s departure, why Wissing remained with the Falcons and how he plans to make the program his own without abandoning what made it successful.Wissing also explains the four pillars shaping his vision—empower, develop, lead and serve—his approach to rebuilding the coaching staff, the challenge of replacing a legendary quarterback and why the defending national champions should not be counted out.The personnel may be different. The leadership may be different. But at River Falls, the standard has not changed.Topics include:Jake Wissing’s decision to stay at UW–River FallsTaking over after Matt Walker’s departureThe emotional first meeting with the teamBuilding his own identity as a head coachPromoting Coach Wood to defensive coordinatorHiring a new offensive coordinatorReplacing key players from a national championship rosterMaintaining a championship cultureWhy the Falcons believe they can compete againSubscribe to The Left Hash Call for conversations with the coaches, players and people shaping college football.Produced by Sizzle Media.Hosted by Seth Howard.

Seth Howard and Dan Casey sit down for a summer check-in to talk about what life has looked like over the past six months, how their partnership began, and everything they have been working on behind the scenes.They discuss the launch of Chalk, Seth’s new role at Drake, the creation of Go to Work With, the evolution of State of the Program, lessons they have learned through coaching and entrepreneurship, and where The Left Hash Call is headed next.It is a relaxed conversation about football, life, building new projects, and the relationships that have made it all possible.Thank you to everyone who has watched, shared, subscribed, and helped support the show. We are only getting started.

Kansas football has gone from one of the most difficult rebuilds in college football to one of the most compelling programs in the Big 12.In this special edition of The Left Hash Call, Seth Howard goes inside the Kansas football facility for an in-depth look at the current state of the Jayhawks program with head coach Lance Leipold, associate head coach Andy Kotelnicki, and quarterbacks coach and passing-game coordinator Jim Zebrowski.The conversation explores how Kansas established accountability, structure, discipline, and leadership; why the staff’s small-college roots still shape the way they teach and develop players; how the program approaches quarterback development and offensive identity; and what the new facilities and stadium investment mean for the future of Kansas football.Lance Leipold discusses the foundation of the rebuild, creating stability within the roster, and the standards that helped change the direction of the program.Andy Kotelnicki explains why he returned to Lawrence, how the staff builds its offensive identity, why preparation makes play-calling easier, and what separates a staff built around teaching and development.Jim Zebrowski breaks down quarterback development, self-evaluation, decision-making, coaching accountability, and why continuity remains one of the most important strengths inside the Kansas program.This is State of the Program: Kansas Football.Subscribe to The Left Hash Call for in-depth conversations with the coaches, players, and football minds shaping the game.Guests:Lance Leipold — Head Coach, Kansas FootballAndy Kotelnicki — Associate Head Coach, Kansas FootballJim Zebrowski — Quarterbacks Coach and Passing-Game Coordinator, Kansas FootballTimestamps: 00:00 Kansas Football: State of the Program00:34 Andy Kotelnicki Returns to Lawrence04:31 The Small-College Roots of Kansas’ Coaching Staff05:31 Kotelnicki’s 12-Year Partnership with Lance Leipold07:23 Why Bill Queiser Is Kotelnicki’s Right-Hand Man09:18 How Kotelnicki Has Evolved as a Play Caller12:06 Inside Kansas’ Weekly Game-Planning Process15:05 Where Offensive Ideas Come From17:24 The Filter for Adding New Plays18:17 Kotelnicki’s Unconventional Recruiting Story19:04 Watching UW–River Falls Become a Champion20:44 Managing the Entire Kansas Offense23:09 Andy Kotelnicki Quick Hits29:33 Advice for the Next Generation of Coaches32:21 Jim Zebrowski Joins the Show33:21 Life After Jalon Daniels34:19 How Kansas Develops Its Quarterbacks35:36 The Current Kansas Quarterback Competition36:28 Zebrowski’s Relationship with Lance Leipold39:04 From Mount Union Baseball to College Football40:55 Learning to Adapt from Larry Kehres42:05 How Jerry Kill Changed Zebrowski’s Career45:13 Zebrowski’s First Impression of Joe Matheson49:45 Watching His Son’s Career at Central Missouri53:55 Working Alongside Andy Kotelnicki55:57 Jim Zebrowski Quick Hits59:20 Advice for Young Coaches1:01:43 Lance Leipold Joins the Show1:02:44 Building Kansas’ New-Look Roster1:04:02 Rebuilding Accountability, Structure and Discipline1:07:01 Recruiting in the Modern College Football Landscape1:08:54 Adapting to NIL, Revenue Sharing and the Portal1:11:02 How Leipold Was Recruited to Wisconsin–Whitewater1:12:32 Sustaining a Division III Dynasty1:15:22 The Day UW–River Falls Nearly Beat Whitewater1:17:00 Why Leipold Eventually Left Whitewater1:20:17 Leipold’s First Impression of Grant Rohach1:21:01 Rebuilding the Buffalo Football Program1:23:33 How the Kansas Job Came Together1:25:24 The Transformation of Kansas Football1:29:49 Lance Leipold Quick Hits1:32:53 Leipold’s Advice for the Next Generation#KansasFootball #KUFootball #CollegeFootball #Big12Football #LanceLeipold #AndyKotelnicki #TheLeftHashCall@thelefthashcallTwitter/X: https://x.com/thelefthashcallInstagram: /thelefthashcallFacebook: /thelefthashcallTik Tok: /thelefthashcall#Coaching #CFB #LHC

Vanderbilt offensive coordinator Tim Beck joins The Left Hash Call to talk through one of the most unique coaching journeys in college football.Coach Beck’s story runs from playing defensive back at Pittsburg State, to becoming a Division II national championship head coach, to working with Gary Patterson and Jerry Kill, to helping engineer major turnarounds at New Mexico State and Vanderbilt.In this episode, we get into the details behind Vanderbilt’s offensive identity: quarterback-driven run game, physical offensive line play, strong/quick offensive line structure, option elements, four-minute offense, recruiting toughness, and how the Commodores built the belief to beat Alabama.Coach Beck also shares stories from Pitt State, learning the split-back veer, visiting Bill Yeoman, flipping the roster at New Mexico State, recruiting Diego Pavia and Eli Stowers, and what it takes to adapt as a coach in today’s college football landscape.This is a great one for coaches, players, and anyone who loves the details behind building a real offensive identity.Topics Include:Tim Beck’s path from Pitt State to VanderbiltMoving from defensive coordinator to offensive coordinatorSplit-back veer roots and option football influenceNew Mexico State’s turnaround under Jerry KillRecruiting Diego Pavia, Eli Stowers, and tough football playersVanderbilt’s physical offensive identity in the SECBeating Alabama and controlling the game with tempo, clock, and toughnessStrong/quick offensive line philosophyFour-minute offense and closing gamesAdvice for young coaches in the modern eraSubscribe for more football conversations with coaches, players, and people shaping the game.Hosted by Seth Howard and Dan Casey

Minnesota Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach Greg Harbaugh Jr. joins The Left Hash Call to break down his coaching journey, the evolution of the Golden Gophers offense, and what it takes to build a quarterback-friendly system in the Big Ten.Harbaugh dives into his path from Division III football to Western Michigan, working under P.J. Fleck, studying NFL offenses, developing Max Brosmer, building around Drake Lindsey, and designing a pro-style attack that blends under-center run game, play action, RPO elements, motions, shifts, and quarterback autonomy.This episode gets into the real details: how Minnesota structures offseason development, why “job-based offense” matters, how Big Ten defensive football keeps changing, what he learned from small-college recruiting, and why technique, fundamentals, and constant adjustment are still the separator.Topics include:Minnesota’s 2026 offseason focusBuilding around Drake LindseyThe evolution from RPOs to pro-style offenseStudying Sean McVay, Kevin O’Connell, Ben Johnson, Liam Coen, and the 49ersWhy Big Ten third-down defenses are so difficultThe value of Division III coaching rootsWestern Michigan, P.J. Fleck, and betting on yourselfUnder-center quarterback developmentSelf-scouting and letting the quarterback shape the call sheetAdvice for young coaches trying to break into the professionGuest: Greg Harbaugh Jr.Role: Offensive Coordinator / Quarterbacks Coach, Minnesota Golden GophersHosts: Seth Howard and Dan Casey

On this episode of The Left Hash Call, Seth Howard and Coach Dan Casey sit down with Drew Cronic, Offensive Coordinator at the United States Naval Academy, to talk through one of the most unique offensive systems in college football.Coach Cronic shares how his football journey started in a Wing-T family, how his father’s influence shaped his offensive philosophy, and how stops at Reinhardt, Furman, Lenoir-Rhyne, Mercer, and Navy helped him continue evolving the system. From jet sweeps and buck sweeps to gun option, midline, quarterback run game, RPOs, tempo, and spread formations, this conversation dives into how Navy has blended old-school physicality with modern answers.The guys also discuss how Navy’s offense creates stress for defenses by using one personnel group, shifting into multiple formations, protecting the run game, creating explosive plays, and adapting to the skill sets of the players on the roster. Coach Cronic also shares insight on Eli Heidenreich’s path to the NFL, Navy’s offensive identity, and why great coaching still comes down to developing young people and putting players in position to succeed.Whether you’re a football coach, offensive coordinator, option football fan, or just someone who loves hearing how great coaches think, this episode is packed with scheme, stories, and leadership lessons.

Minnesota State has been one of the most consistent Division II football programs in the country, but the Mavericks are still chasing the one thing that has escaped them: a national championship.On this episode of The Left Hash Call, Seth Howard sits down with Ryan Schlichte, offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Minnesota State, and Chad Henning, run game coordinator and offensive line coach, for a deep dive into the identity of Maverick football.The conversation covers Minnesota State’s 2025 playoff run, what it feels like to come up short against a national power like Ferris State, and the internal push to become the first team in program history to win a national title. Schlichte and Henning also break down the Mavericks’ two-quarterback system, how they build a game plan each week, why the offensive line is the heartbeat of the program, and what they look for when recruiting quarterbacks and linemen.And then the episode goes completely off the rails in the best way possible: ranking every NSIC mascot by who would win in a fight.From serious football philosophy to Maverick pride to Green Beaver vs. Red Beaver debates, this one has everything.Featured Guests:Ryan Schlichte — Offensive Coordinator / Quarterbacks Coach, Minnesota State FootballChad Henning — Run Game Coordinator / Offensive Line Coach, Minnesota State FootballHosted by Seth Howard.

This week on The Left Hash Call, Iowa State Offensive Coordinator Tyler Roehl joins the show for a deep dive into toughness, offensive identity, and what it takes to build a championship-level football culture.Coach Roehl’s résumé speaks for itself: All-American running back at North Dakota State, seven FCS National Championships as a coach, two national titles as NDSU’s offensive coordinator, a major role in Iowa State’s 2024 run game growth, a year with the Detroit Lions under Dan Campbell, and now the keys to the Cyclones’ offense in Ames.But this conversation goes way beyond the résumé.Coach Roehl talks about why he came back to Iowa State, what he learned inside the Detroit Lions building, how North Dakota State built one of the most dominant dynasties in college football, and why A-Gap Power is not just a scheme — it is a lifestyle. He also shares his upbringing in West Fargo, delivering newspapers through brutal North Dakota winters, choosing coaching over a potential six-figure job, evaluating quarterbacks, and building an offensive identity around physicality, conviction, and connection.This is a football guy’s football guy talking ball, culture, toughness, and the future of Iowa State football.

Central College head football coach Jeff McMartin joins The Left Hash Call to talk about what it really takes to build and sustain a winning program.In this episode, Coach McMartin shares the values that have shaped Central football for decades — toughness, consistency, character, and relationships. We talk about recruiting the right fit, developing quarterbacks, balancing physicality with player health, the special 2021 season with Blaine Hawkins, his time as AFCA president, and the advice he would give to the next generation of coaches.Coach McMartin also reflects on growing up in a farming family, his own recruiting journey to Central, the coaches who shaped him, and why he believes the best coaches never stop learning.

Morgan Scalley joins The Left Hash Call to talk about taking over as the head coach at the University of Utah, continuing the standard built under Kyle Whittingham, and leading the program into its next chapter.A Salt Lake City native, former Utah defensive back, and longtime assistant, Scalley has seen the Utes from nearly every angle — player, staffer, coordinator, and now head coach. In this episode, he reflects on his path from dreaming of playing running back at Utah to becoming an All-American safety, the coaches who shaped him, and what it means to lead his alma mater.Scalley also dives into Utah’s defensive identity, the meaning behind Relentless, Smart, Nasty, Ball Hawks, how culture is actually built inside a program, and why players must learn to “own their 20 square feet.” He also breaks down recruiting in the transfer portal era, the hidden costs of transferring, the importance of development, and why young coaches should never stop watching film.

In this episode of The Left Hash Call, Seth Howard sits down with Mark Sipple, Defensive Coordinator and Safeties Coach at Drake University, for a deep dive into the mind of a true defensive football lifer.Coach Sipple walks through his journey from a playing career cut short by injury to finding his calling in coaching, starting at the high school level in Wisconsin before stops at North Dakota, Wisconsin Lutheran, UW-Eau Claire, St. Cloud State, Augustana, and now Drake. The conversation covers his move to Drake, building a new defensive identity, adapting personnel, recruiting the right fit, and what makes the Bulldogs’ culture unique.The episode also turns into a defensive masterclass. Coach Sipple breaks down his three-safety system, press-man philosophy, the pinch/crush front, how defenses should study offensive coordinators, why context matters on film, and the “two yards per rush, six yards per pass attempt” standard he chases when evaluating elite defense. He also shares lessons from coaching through uncertainty, including the closing of St. Cloud State football, his deck-building side hustle, and the importance of staying grounded as a coach.This one is for defensive coaches, football junkies, and anyone who loves hearing how great coaches think about the game behind the scenes.

In this episode of The Left Hash Call, Seth Howard and Coach Dan Casey are joined by Keenan Bailey, the Co-Offensive Coordinator and Tight Ends Coach at Ohio State. Bailey’s rise through the Buckeye program is one of patience, detail, and relentless work — from arriving in Columbus as an offensive intern to coaching multiple position groups and eventually earning a coordinator role inside one of college football’s premier programs.Coach Bailey dives into his journey from Missouri and Notre Dame to Ohio State, what he learned working under Urban Meyer and Ryan Day, how the Buckeyes have evolved offensively through different eras, and what Arthur Smith brings to the next chapter of Ohio State football. The conversation also covers tight end development, the growth of Ohio State’s offense, the importance of research and note-taking for young coaches, and how the Buckeyes responded to adversity during their championship run.This one is packed with ball, coaching insight, and stories from inside one of the most competitive programs in the country.

In this episode of The Left Hash Call, Seth Howard and Coach Dan Casey sit down with Taylor Mouser, Penn State’s Offensive Coordinator and Tight Ends Coach, for a wide-ranging conversation on his path through the coaching profession, his offensive philosophy, and what Penn State fans can expect from this new era of Nittany Lion football.Coach Mouser shares how he went from playing defensive line at Adams State, working at Little Caesars, and cold-calling coaches to earning an opportunity at Toledo and eventually becoming one of the rising offensive minds in college football. He dives into his relationship with Matt Campbell, the culture that followed from Iowa State to Penn State, and the lessons learned from helping build one of the most successful stretches in Cyclone history.The conversation also gets deep into football: 12 and 13 personnel, tight end usage, under-center run game, quarterback development, the importance of empowering the QB at the line of scrimmage, morning practices, game-planning workflows, and why Big Ten football fits the identity this staff wants to build. Mouser also talks about Penn State’s tradition, the running back standard, the quarterback lab, and why the margins matter so much in championship-level football.This is a great episode for coaches, players, Penn State fans, Iowa State fans, and anyone interested in the real climb behind becoming a Power Four offensive coordinator.

From grinding as a free quality control coach to leading one of college football’s most explosive offenses, Sean Brophy is part of the next wave of elite offensive minds.In this episode of The Left Hash Call, Seth Howard & Dan Casey sit down with the Oklahoma State Cowboys football Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach to break down his rapid rise through the coaching ranks—starting as a quarterback at Incarnate Word, developing elite talent like Cam Ward, and building a top-tier passing attack at North Texas before making the jump to the Power 4 level.Brophy dives into:The reality behind fast-tracking a coaching careerHow great offenses adapt to the quarterback—not the systemWhy development still matters in the transfer portal eraThe relationship between play caller and quarterbackBuilding a winning culture in today’s “transactional” college football landscapeWhat it actually takes to succeed in the Big 12If you’re serious about football—whether you’re a coach, player, or just someone who studies the game—this episode delivers real insight from someone living it at a high level.Welcome to The Left Hash Call.

We sit down with Will Stein to break down what it really takes to build an elite football program—from developing quarterbacks to creating a culture players genuinely believe in.Stein dives into his philosophy of “high IQ, high character”, explaining why intelligence, discipline, and authenticity matter more than résumés or logos. We get into how he evaluates coaches and players, what makes a great quarterback coach, and why the best offenses balance structure with freedom.This conversation goes beyond X’s and O’s. It’s about building something sustainable—where players can love football, grow within it, and perform at a high level without burning out.We also get into:How elite coaches develop quarterbacks at every levelThe importance of detail and consistency in offensive systemsWhat “cutting edge” really means in today’s gameThe balance between simplicity and creativity in play designInfluences that shaped Stein’s offensive philosophyWhy relationships and trust drive everything inside a programWhether you’re a coach, player, or just someone who loves the game, this episode gives you a real look into how high-level football minds operate.@thelefthashcallTwitter/X: https://x.com/thelefthashcallInstagram: /thelefthashcallFacebook: /thelefthashcallTik Tok: /thelefthashcall#Coaching #CFB #LHC

On this episode of The Left Hash Call, we sit down with Texas Tech offensive coordinator Matt — one of the fastest-rising offensive minds in college football — alongside quarterback Lindsey Scott. From humble beginnings coaching high school football and teaching geometry, to building explosive offenses at Incarnate Word and Texas State, and now leading a high-powered attack in Lubbock, this conversation dives deep into the evolution of a modern offensive system and the mindset behind it.We talk about growing up as a coach’s kid, developing a quarterback-first philosophy, and how trust and freedom shape elite quarterback play. Matt breaks down how his offense adapts to personnel, the collaborative process behind building a system, and what it takes to transition that identity across multiple levels of college football. Lindsey Scott also shares why playing in this system changed his perspective on the position — and ultimately led him into coaching.The episode also covers:The origins of the offense and early high school experimentationTransitioning from UIW to Texas State to Texas TechBuilding offensive identity while blending new staff ideasQuarterback freedom, footwork flexibility, and decision-makingLessons learned from playoff runs and high-level competitionHow great offenses evolve year to year@thelefthashcall#Coaching #CFB #LHC

In this episode, we sit down with Drake University’s new offensive coordinator, Joe Matheson, who arrives alongside Head Coach Matt Walker after a dominant run at the University of Wisconsin–River Falls.Matheson orchestrated a unit that led all of college football (across every division) in total offense and finished the 2025 season with a national championship.We dive into his full journey:– Coaching under Jerry Kill at the University of Minnesota– Building experience at Southwest Minnesota State– Eight seasons developing one of the most explosive offenses in the country at River Falls– And now, taking over at Drake as part of a brand-new regimeThis is a deep look into offensive philosophy, player development, and what it actually takes to build a nationally elite unit — then bring that standard to the next level.

Kevin Burke is one of the most accomplished quarterbacks in Division III football history and one of the rising offensive minds in the coaching profession. A former Mount Union signal-caller, Burke led the Purple Raiders to a 43-2 record as a starter, three straight national championship appearances, and the 2012 NCAA Division III National Championship. He became the first junior ever to win the Gagliardi Trophy, then made history again as the first and still only player to win the award twice, adding a second trophy in 2014. Burke finished his legendary career with more than 14,500 total offensive yards before transitioning into coaching, with stops at Mount Union, Case Western Reserve, and UC Davis, where he helped develop one of the top quarterbacks at the FCS level. Now, he returns to his alma mater as offensive coordinator, bringing championship experience, quarterback expertise, and a deep understanding of the Mount Union standard back to Alliance.

In this in-depth interview, Coach Brad Bez shares his journey through various levels of college football, emphasizing fundamentals, scheme adaptation, and leadership. Discover insights on coaching philosophy, navigating different programs, and the importance of fundamentals in building successful offensive lines.

Today we have one of the owner of one of the most influential educational football accounts on earth. He is the author of Trends & Bring Your Own Pencil. Creator of the Playcaller's Club and CHLK. You have hundreds of this guys tweets saved, the man, Dan Casey.

Division III football is evolving fast — and Coach Cat (Jim Catanzaro) has seen it from every angle.In this episode of The Left Hash Call, Seth Howard sits down with the Lake Forest College Head Football Coach, Assistant Vice President/Director of Athletics, 4-time Midwest Conference Champion, former Chair of the NCAA Division III Football Committee, and current AFCA Board of Trustees member to talk culture, recruiting, governance, and the future of college football.@thelefthashcall

In this conversation, Coach Michael Zweifel discusses his journey to becoming the head football coach at UW-La Crosse, sharing insights on his coaching philosophy, the importance of building a strong staff, and his vision for the program. He emphasizes the need for consistency in practice, the significance of special teams, and the challenges of recruiting in a competitive academic environment. Zweifel also reflects on his experiences as a player and coach, the evolution of the game, and the importance of developing young coaches. Throughout the discussion, he highlights the value of being true to oneself and adapting to the ever-changing landscape of college football.

Welcome to The Left Hash Call. You can also find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter & TikTok!In this engaging conversation, Coach Logan Masters of Wayne State College shares insights into his coaching philosophy, team culture, and the importance of hard work and relationships in football. He discusses the challenges and joys of coaching, the significance of recruiting within the region, and how the transfer portal impacts team dynamics. Masters reflects on his journey from player to coach, emphasizing the lessons learned along the way and the importance of fostering a competitive yet supportive environment for his players.@thelefthashcallTwitter/X: https://x.com/thelefthashcallInstagram: /thelefthashcallFacebook: /thelefthashcallTik Tok: /thelefthashcall#Coaching #CFB #LHC

In this conversation, Greg Nelson, Senior Vice President of Competitive at Hudl, discusses the evolution of Hudl from its early days of DVD exchanges to its current state as a leader in sports technology, focusing on video analysis and AI integration. He shares insights on the importance of capturing data, the role of AI in coaching, and how Hudl is continuously innovating to meet the needs of coaches across various sports. The discussion also touches on the integration of wearable technology, the challenges of coaching workflows, and the future of Hudl as it transitions from Classic to New Hudl.

In this conversation, Tony Annese, head football coach at Ferris State, shares insights on his coaching philosophy, the impact of the transfer portal, and the importance of love and culture in building successful teams. He reflects on his journey from high school to college coaching, the challenges of player development, and the significance of nurturing young athletes both on and off the field. Annese emphasizes the need for patience, determination, and a commitment to serving young people as the foundation for success in coaching.

In this conversation, Colin Duling, the offensive coordinator at Bethel University, shares insights into his coaching journey, offensive strategies, and the importance of player development. He discusses the challenges of transitioning players, building a championship culture, and the significance of practice and preparation. Duling emphasizes the need for effective communication and execution on game day, as well as the innovative techniques he employs in his offensive playbook. He also reflects on the importance of recruiting and building relationships with players, while offering advice for aspiring coaches.

In this episode of The Left Hash Call: Beyond the Hashes, host Seth Howard interviews Grayson Jons, the Director of Creative Content at Johns Hopkins University. Grayson shares her unique journey into the world of sports videography and storytelling, starting from her high school days of creating highlight reels for soccer recruitment. She discusses how the COVID-19 pandemic allowed her to focus on her passion for videography, leading to paid gigs and connections within the lacrosse community. Grayson emphasizes the importance of storytelling in her work, moving beyond simple videography to create narratives that resonate with audiences.

I sit down with the UW-River Falls National Champions one final time for the 2025 Season.

At the AFCA Convention in Charlotte, I sit down with Trinity University head coach (and QB coach) Jeremy Urban—a former Division III athlete who went on to spend nine seasons in the NFL and experienced the sport on its biggest stage.We talk about Jeremy’s winding path from Victoria, Texas to Trinity, what it really takes to go D3 → NFL, and why development, patience, and staying in one program can still matter in a world dominated by the portal. Jeremy also pulls back the curtain on his role with the AFCA Executive Board, what coaches are debating behind the scenes, and why player voices—especially through SAAC—are more important than ever.

Welcome to The Left Hash Call. You can also find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter & TikTok!

In this episode, Seth Howard and Owen Schmitt celebrate the historic national championship win of the University of Wisconsin-River Falls football team. They discuss Owen's unique journey from Division III football to the NFL, the evolution of the fullback position, the impact of modern facilities on recruitment, and the importance of self-discipline in college athletics. The conversation highlights the strong community support for the team and concludes with reflections on gratitude and future aspirations.

Hear from the players, coaches & administrators ahead of UW-River Falls first appearance in the Stagg Bowl!

In this conversation, Zach Riepma, the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Alma College, discusses his coaching philosophy, the importance of tempo in football, and the challenges of recruiting in Division III. He reflects on his journey in coaching, the significance of building a strong team culture, and the impact of star quarterback Carter St. John. Riepma emphasizes the need for genuine relationships in coaching and shares insights on game planning and practice design. He also highlights the importance of community involvement and the complementary relationship between offense and defense.

Welcome to The Left Hash Call. You can also find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter & TikTok!In this episode of The Left Hash Call, Seth Howard sits down with Grant Rohach to walk through a football journey that spans Power Five football, adversity, growth, and the transition from player to coach.Grant reflects on his time at Iowa State, the lessons learned competing at the highest level, and how those experiences shaped his approach to leadership, preparation, and teaching the game. The conversation dives into quarterback development, handling pressure, and what truly carries over from playing into coaching.This episode is a candid look at how football teaches adaptability, humility, and perspective — and why the most important lessons often come after the playing days are over.Whether you’re a coach, player, or leader in any field, Grant’s story highlights the value of preparation, resilience, and seeing the game through a wider lens.@thelefthashcallSUBSCRIBE: / @thelefthashcall#Coaching #CFB #LHC

In this episode, Coach Craig Stenbroten Defensive Coordinator of the UW-Oshkosh Titans discusses his extensive experience in Division III football, focusing on recruiting strategies, the challenges of scheduling tough opponents, and the importance of building relationships with players. He reflects on the lessons learned from the past season, the impact of senior players, and the evolution of the WIAC. Coach Stenbroten shares insights into his defensive philosophy, the preparation process for games, and the influence of legendary coaches like Pat Cerrone. He emphasizes the significance of consistency in coaching language and the need for adaptability in a competitive landscape.

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the intricacies of coaching, particularly focusing on the role of an offensive coordinator. They explore the importance of cultivating a strong culture within the team, the challenges of recruiting, and the necessity of building trust between players and coaches. The discussion also highlights the significance of setting clear expectations, the influence of various coaching philosophies, and the importance of communication and feedback in maintaining team identity and adapting strategies during games. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of coaching, emphasizing the importance of trust, communication, and adaptability in building successful teams. They discuss the need for authenticity in coaching styles, the dynamics between coordinators and head coaches, and the significance of effective practice strategies. The conversation highlights the challenges faced by coaches and the importance of maintaining standards and expectations while fostering a positive culture within the team.Welcome to The Left Hash Call. You can also find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Instagram, Twitter & TikTok!@thelefthashcallSUBSCRIBE: / @thelefthashcall#Coaching #CFB #LHC

SummaryIn this engaging conversation, Coach Cody Baethke shares his journey through Division III football, discussing the challenges and triumphs of coaching at Coe College. He reflects on the importance of leadership, preparation, and resilience in building a successful program. Baethke emphasizes the value of mentorship and communication in coaching, as well as the need to adapt strategies based on player development and performance. His insights provide a deep understanding of the complexities of college football coaching and the dedication required to achieve success. In this conversation, Cody Baethke shares his journey as a football coach, discussing the importance of mentorship, the evolution of defensive strategies, and the challenges posed by modern offenses. He reflects on memorable games, the preparation process for each week, and the respect he holds for his opponents. Baethke emphasizes the significance of building relationships in coaching and offers insights into the competitive nature of college football.

In this engaging conversation, Seth Howard speaks with Caleb Corrill and Dylan Brown about their experiences in college football and the transition to professional play. They discuss the evolving landscape of college athletics, particularly the impact of NIL and the transfer portal on recruiting strategies. The conversation delves into the importance of player development, effective game preparation, and the significance of building a strong team culture. Both guests share personal insights and anecdotes that highlight the challenges and triumphs of their football journeys, culminating in a discussion about the future of college football and the trends shaping it. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the evolution of college sports, particularly focusing on the challenges and dynamics of recruiting, player development, and the impact of NIL on college football. They discuss various offensive strategies, the importance of offseason training, and the role of leadership in team success. The conversation also highlights the significance of rivalries and team culture, as well as game day strategies and execution. The speakers share insights on coaching excellence and the future of college football coaching, emphasizing the desire for continuous improvement and adaptation in the ever-evolving landscape of college athletics.

In this conversation, Alex Balogh, the offensive coordinator for Carlton College, reflects on the progress made during the 2025 season, the importance of recruiting, and the challenges faced in a competitive conference. He shares insights from his coaching journey, including lessons learned from strength and conditioning, his first coaching experiences, and the role of a recruiting coordinator. Balogh emphasizes the significance of player development and the need for a solid foundation in coaching strategies, ultimately highlighting his passion for the profession. In this engaging conversation, Alex Balogh shares his journey as an offensive coordinator, discussing the transition from coaching to leading a team, the importance of collaboration with staff, and the challenges faced while coaching a talented quarterback, Jack Curtis, who battled cancer. The discussion also delves into coaching philosophies, game preparation strategies, and the significance of building meaningful relationships in sports.

In this episode, Seth Howard introduces the new season of the Left Hash Call, outlining the format changes and the focus on storytelling through one-on-one conversations with coaches. He discusses the new Monday segments that will cover coaching decisions, job opportunities, and insights from regular guests. The conversation also highlights the challenges coaches face during adverse weather conditions and the importance of navigating job opportunities in the coaching profession. Seth emphasizes the significance of understanding personal priorities when considering coaching positions and shares exciting updates on coaching changes in the football world.

Head Football Coach of the University of Wisconsin-River Falls, Matt Walker discusses his first playoff berth. Seth Howard and Matt Walker discuss the upcoming playoffs, the impressive in-season development of the River Falls football team, and the strong culture that has been built within the program. They highlight the importance of coaching, the impact of young coaches, and the significance of Thanksgiving dinner with the team and senior hits. The conversation also touches on the lessons learned from losses and the ongoing preparation for future challenges.