Inside the Headset with the AFCA

In this conversation we’re joined by Devin Williams, senior defensive back at Bethel University, three-time All-Region cornerback, and member of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. Devin has been a leader for one of the nation’s top NCAA Division III defenses, but his biggest impact comes off the field—where he’s dedicated over 300 hours of community service. From mentoring students in Bethel’s BUILD program to coaching youth sports and volunteering with Feed My Starving Children, Devin embodies what it means to be a true servant-leader. 🎧 Tune in to hear Devin’s story of football, leadership, and using his platform to make a difference.

On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by Mac Alexander, Assistant Head Coach and Special Teams Coordinator at Colorado State Pueblo. Coach Alexander reflects on his coaching career path, from student assistant to Assistant HC, with stops at Colorado Mesa, Fort Lewis, Tarleton State, Washington State, and Western New Mexico. He discusses the importance of working for the right people, building trust with players and staff, and the leadership lessons that helped shape his career. Alexander also shares what it meant to be recognized as part of the 2024 AFCA 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute and why young coaches should apply for the program. 👉 Follow Coach Alexander: @CoachMac_A 👉 Follow CSU Pueblo Football: @CSUPFootball 🎧 Subscribe to Inside the Headset: linktr.ee/insidetheheadset

Denison University senior offensive lineman and Allstate AFCA Good Works Team member, Canyon Schneider, joins the AFCA for an inspiring conversation about leadership, service, and impact. A 30-game starter and Academic Honor Roll standout, Canyon has excelled on the field and in the classroom—earning Academic All-District and All-NCAC honors. Beyond football, he has volunteered more than 400 hours at local hospitals, led Denison’s Mission34 mental health initiative, and mentored youth through coaching, school visits, and community programs. Canyon’s story reflects the heart of a true leader, dedicated to making a lasting difference both on and off the field. Follow Denison Football on social media: @DenisonFB

On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we sat down with Nick Lezynski, Linebackers Coach at Vanderbilt University. Coach Lezynski shares his coaching journey, from his playing days at Notre Dame to breaking into the profession at Holy Cross, and eventually reuniting with Clark Lea at Vanderbilt. He also dives into the importance of building strong relationships with players and coaches, and reflects on being named to the 2025 AFCA 35 Under 35 class. 🔗 Follow Coach Lezynski and Vanderbilt Football: Twitter/X: @Coach_Lezynski | @VandyFootball 👉 Be sure to subscribe to Inside the Headset for weekly coaching conversations, career insights, and leadership lessons: https://linktr.ee/insidetheheadset ⏱️ Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Intro 01:29 – Why coaching? 03:45 – Playing both sides at Notre Dame 06:50 – First job at Holy Cross 11:20 – Early foresight into coaching 14:25 – Intern experience at Holy Cross 18:00 – Overcoming challenges & finding a niche 28:00 – Leaving Holy Cross 32:30 – Interview process at Lafayette 35:40 – Success in year one 37:45 – Return to Notre Dame 53:40 – Reuniting with Clark Lea at Vanderbilt 58:05 – AFCA 35 Under 35 experience 1:01:33 – Closing thoughts

On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by Zach Kittley, Head Coach at Florida Atlantic University. Coach Kittley shares his path from following his father’s coaching legacy to becoming a Division I head coach, his experiences with the Air Raid offense, and the process of building his staff and culture at FAU. If you’re a coach, player, or fan interested in offensive strategy and leadership, this episode is packed with valuable insight. Episode Timestamps: 1:13 – Introduction 1:48 – Deciding to pursue coaching 8:10 – Balancing student life and coaching 12:20 – Developing as a QB coach at Texas Tech 15:20 – Opportunity at Houston Christian 18:50 – First challenges as an OC 24:50 – Adapting in the Air Raid offense 26:40 – Lessons from first year as an OC 30:20 – Taking the Western Kentucky job 39:00 – Building a stronger run game 42:30 – Returning to Texas Tech as OC 49:40 – Coaching at his alma mater 54:30 – Building a staff at FAU 1:00:00 – Importance of AFCA 35 Under 35 program 1:01:32 – Conclusion 👉 Follow Coach Kittley on Twitter/X: @ZKittley & @FAUFootball 🎧 Subscribe to Inside the Headset for new episodes every week!

This week on Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by Grant Olson, Defensive Coordinator and Linebackers Coach at North Dakota State University. Coach Olson shares his journey from student assistant to defensive coordinator at his alma mater, with lessons learned at Wyoming and Indiana State, the influence of NDSU’s coaching tradition, and the honor of being selected for the AFCA 35 Under 35 program. 📌 Inside the Headset delivers weekly conversations with coaches from all levels of football. Episode Timestamps 1:13 – Introduction 1:50 – Deciding to pursue coaching 3:30 – Lineage of successful NDSU coaches 5:15 – Coaching at your alma mater 8:45 – Balancing past success with motivation 10:55 – Starting as an NDSU student assistant 14:20 – Moving from engineering to coaching 15:40 – Graduate assistant role at Wyoming 21:20 – Highs and lows at Wyoming 23:30 – Managing player-to-coach relationships 25:50 – Challenges as a graduate assistant 27:40 – First full-time role at Indiana State 33:45 – Lessons from first position 35:00 – Returning to NDSU 40:15 – Full-circle success coaching linebackers 46:55 – Taking on Special Teams Coordinator role 50:35 – Transition to Defensive Coordinator 55:37 – AFCA 35 Under 35 experience 58:30 – Closing thoughts

On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by Khenon Hall, the Associate Head Coach and Running Backs Coach at Baylor University. Coach Hall shares his coaching journey, how he overcame a career-ending injury, and his approach to developing running backs at the college level. From growing up in the Dallas high school football scene to coaching stops at New Mexico, Illinois State, Texas Southern, SMU, and now Baylor, Hall explains how resilience and perseverance have shaped his path. If you enjoy this episode, be sure to follow, rate, and review the podcast. It helps more coaches and fans discover Inside the Headset. Show Notes with Timestamps 1:12 – Introduction 2:34 – When did you know you wanted to coach? 4:00 – Growing up in Texas high school football 8:00 – Transitioning into a student assistant role after injury 10:48 – Adjusting to the coaching lifestyle 13:31 – Early rewarding moments 17:15 – Opportunity to become a GA at New Mexico 23:26 – Considering coaching at the high school level 29:38 – Overcoming adversity as a GA and mentoring younger coaches 33:20 – First position group as DB coach at Illinois State 37:25 – Importance of developing as a recruiter and RB coach 41:08 – Being let go from Illinois State 47:07 – Opportunity at Texas Southern 51:06 – The value of the running back position 54:50 – Transition to SMU as RB coach and Run Game Coordinator 59:25 – Coaching differences between public and private schools 1:02:00 – Decision to join Baylor 1:08:08 – Growth as Baylor’s Associate Head Coach 1:11:57 – One sentence of advice for young coaches 1:12:30 – Conclusion

Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm welcomes Jericho Silvernail, Associate Head Coach and Special Teams Coordinator at Long Beach City College. In this episode, Coach Silvernail details his coaching journey, the challenges he’s faced, and how he earned recognition as part of the 2025 AFCA 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute. 🕒 Episode Timestamps 01:11 – Introduction 01:30 – When did you know you wanted to coach? 04:21 – First coaching stop at Santiago High School 06:05 – Making the big leap early in your career 07:50 – Handling adversity and adapting in your role 09:10 – Coaching at Cerritos High School 13:00 – Preparing to be a Special Teams Coordinator 18:42 – Getting started at Long Beach City College 23:00 – Promotion to Defensive Front Coordinator 26:25 – Transitioning to the Offensive Line 29:35 – Path to Associate Head Coach & Special Teams Coordinator 31:20 – Why apply for the AFCA 35 Under 35 program 34:00 – Conclusion 📲 Follow Coach Silvernail & Long Beach City Football: @CoachSilvernail @LBCCFB_VGOH 🎧 Subscribe to Inside the Headset for new episodes every week featuring conversations with coaches across all levels of football.

This week on Inside the Headset, presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by Cody Alexander, owner of MatchQuarters. Cody takes us inside his coaching journey—from his early days at the high school level in Oklahoma and Texas to his time as a Defensive Intern and GA at Baylor. In this episode, Cody shares valuable coaching lessons, discusses the challenges and growth moments that shaped his career, and explains how he built MatchQuarters into one of football’s go-to resources for defensive strategy and education. Timestamps: 1:12 – When Cody knew he wanted to coach 4:15 – Landing his first coaching job 6:45 – Early career challenges 9:40 – Coaching in Oklahoma vs. Texas 12:50 – Starting Life Waxahachie High School football 16:12 – Becoming a Defensive Intern at Baylor 26:30 – Life after the GA role 34:10 – Growth through coaching at Texas high schools 40:40 – Changes in his second stint at Life Waxahachie HS 46:28 – Building the MatchQuarters platform 56:20 – About MatchQuarters today 57:55 – Conclusion Follow Cody Alexander: @The_Coach_A More Inside the Headset Episodes: https://linktr.ee/insidetheheadset

In this episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by Chris Stutzreim, Head Football Coach at Rocky Mountain College. Coach Stutzreim shares his coaching journey from player to graduate assistant and eventually head coach, offering valuable insights into program building, leadership development, and the importance of genuine relationships in football. We discuss how he navigated the transfer portal, secured his first coaching position, adapted to new offensive systems, and prepared to lead his own program. He also reflects on personal growth as a coach and the impact of the AFCA 35 Under 35 program. ⏱️ Episode Timestamps: 01:12 – Intro 01:55 – When did you know you wanted to coach? 03:35 – Personal transfer portal experience 05:50 – Landing a GA role at William Penn 07:28 – Transitioning from player to coach 13:24 – Reconnecting with a former coach to start a career 17:34 – Preparing to be an offensive coordinator 20:00 – Adapting to new positions and offensive systems 26:10 – Taking over the offense at Rocky Mountain 28:30 – Flexibility and recruiting strategies 32:22 – Brief stop at Southwestern Oklahoma State 34:33 – Did leaving and returning help secure the head coach role? 37:00 – Building relationships with the athletic department 38:53 – Personal growth as a head coach 43:30 – The value of the AFCA 35 Under 35 program 45:39 – Final thoughts and conclusion 🔗 Follow Coach Stutzreim: @Coach_Stutz 🔗 Rocky Mountain Football: @Rocky_Football 🎧 Subscribe for weekly episodes: linktr.ee/insidetheheadset

This week on Inside the Headset, presented by CoachComm sat down with Colorado School of Mines Head Coach Bob Stitt to talk about his return to the sidelines, how he’s using the Scorability Database to improve recruiting, and what it means to lead the Orediggers again as a Hall of Famer. Coach Stitt also reflects on his earlier success at Mines, shares insight from his time at Montana and Texas State, and breaks down his lasting impact on offensive football including the popular jet sweep pass. 🎧 Episode Timestamps: 1:12 – Introduction 2:00 – Returning to the profession 5:50 – Adapting to modern recruiting 8:10 – Using the Scorability Database 12:44 – Early coaching influences 15:40 – Gaining exposure in the profession 18:25 – Most impactful early coaching stop 21:09 – Turning around the Mines program 24:00 – The evolution of the jet sweep 33:20 – Returning as Hall of Fame head coach 37:38 – Experience at Montana and being let go 43:45 – Viewing the game as an analyst 47:48 – Time at Texas State 50:18 – Conclusion If you’re passionate about coaching, recruiting, or innovative offensive football, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

On this episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we're joined by Alex Golesh, Head Football Coach at the University of South Florida. Coach Golesh takes us behind the scenes of his transition into the USF program, sharing insights on preparing for a head coaching role, adapting to the modern recruiting landscape, and building a strong team culture from the ground up. Whether you're a football coach, administrator, or fan of the game, this conversation is packed with leadership lessons and real-world takeaways from one of college football’s rising head coaches. What You'll Learn in This Episode: What Alex Golesh prioritized before accepting the USF job How he planned and approached his first year as a head coach Strategies for recruiting and retaining players in 2025 How to instill culture within a new football program The importance of learning from past coaching experiences 🎧 Listen and subscribe: Inside the Headset – Linktree 📲 New episodes every week featuring top voices in football leadership and coaching development.

On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by Winston DeLattiboudere III, Defensive Line Coach for the Arizona Cardinals. Coach DeLattiboudere shares his inspiring journey from playing college football to coaching in the NFL. He talks about making the transition from player to coach, the challenges that come with career moves—both personally and professionally—and the importance of staying organized throughout the coaching grind. In this conversation, Coach opens up about: His decision to leave playing behind and pursue coaching full-time The impact coaching transitions have on family and relationships His early experiences as a Graduate Assistant at Charlotte Being let go from Oregon and how he bounced back through persistence Coaching at his alma mater, the University of Minnesota, and taking on leadership roles How the Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship helped prepare him for the NFL His recent recognition as a member of the 2024 AFCA 35 Under 35 class and what that honor means to him This episode is packed with valuable insight for aspiring coaches, current coaches navigating career challenges, and anyone passionate about leadership and growth in football. Subscribe to Inside the Headset for new episodes every week featuring impactful stories from coaches at every level of the game.

This week on Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by Aaron Fierbaugh, the Safeties Coach at Liberty University and a 2025 member of the AFCA 35 Under 35 class. In this episode, Coach Fierbaugh shares his coaching journey—from his start as a student assistant at Auburn to his current role at Liberty. He discusses the value of patience, taking roles that build long-term success, and the importance of family and mentorship in the coaching profession. 🎙️ Topics include: Starting as a student assistant at Auburn Working in quality control roles at South Carolina Transitioning into full-time coaching Coaching at Coastal Carolina and Liberty The value of networking and leadership opportunities Insights from the AFCA 35 Under 35 experience This episode is a must-listen for coaches navigating the early stages of their careers. 🔗 Follow Coach Fierbaugh on Twitter: @Aaron_Fierbaugh 🔗 Follow Liberty Football: @LibertyFootball Subscribe, like, & review.

This week, we’re joined by Jernaro Gilford, Cornerbacks Coach at BYU, as he reflects on his coaching path—from playing for the Cougars to returning to lead young men at his alma mater. Coach Gilford dives into his early career, lessons learned at Southern Utah, and the power of building genuine relationships with players. Whether you're a young coach looking to grow or a seasoned veteran, this conversation offers valuable insight on developing as a leader in the football coaching profession. 🗓 Episode Highlights – Getting started in coaching – Playing career at BYU – Making the transition to coaching – Lessons from the D3 and FCS levels – Coaching at your alma mater – Why relationships matter in coaching 🔗 Connect with us Follow: @jernarogilford | @BYUfootball More episodes: linktr.ee/insidetheheadset

On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we're joined by Jas Bains, Head Coach at Western Colorado University and member of the AFCA Board of Trustees. Now in his 15th season, Coach Bains reflects on his coaching journey, how he’s built long-term success, and the role of leadership and special teams in his program. In this episode, Coach Bains shares valuable lessons from his early coaching days, how he earned trust as a young coordinator, and his approach to developing a strong team culture that lasts. He also talks about the importance of staying connected to the coaching profession through his work with the AFCA. 🕒 Episode Timestamps: 1:18 – Introduction 1:45 – When did you know you wanted to coach? 4:20 – Playing at Willamette and Fresno State 5:46 – Landing his first coaching job 10:50 – Lessons from the early years 13:34 – How a GA role led to full-time promotion 16:15 – Special teams philosophy and success 20:03 – Becoming Defensive & Special Teams Coordinator at Western Colorado 22:10 – Adjusting as a young coordinator 24:25 – Teaching players and coaches all positions 27:00 – Leading peers close in age 29:30 – Balancing two coordinator roles 31:50 – Transitioning to Head Coach 38:58 – Hiring his first staff 44:28 – Longevity and building a strong culture 48:58 – Developing coaching staff chemistry 53:52 – Serving on the AFCA Board of Trustees 55:58 – Final thoughts 📌 Don’t forget to subscribe to Inside the Headset for weekly conversations with coaches across all levels of football. 🎧 Listen now and share with a fellow coach! 🔗 More AFCA content: https://linktr.ee/insidetheheadset

This week on Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by Michael Christensen, longtime high school football coach and former Head Coach at Carson High School in California. With over 35 years of experience, Coach Christensen shares his journey through some of the most competitive programs in Los Angeles, the challenges of coaching at both public and private schools, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. We also discuss his current role as Chair of the AFCA High School Coaches Committee and how he continues to impact the coaching profession on a national level. Topics include: Starting out as a walk-on coach in California Building successful high school programs Adapting to different athlete and school cultures Balancing football with family life His leadership role with the AFCA Whether you're a veteran coach or just starting your journey, this episode offers valuable insights into the realities of coaching high school football today. 🎧 Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

In this episode of Inside the Headset, presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by Woody McCorvey, Chief of Staff for Clemson Football. Coach McCorvey reflects on nearly 50 years in the coaching profession, sharing his journey through triumphs and challenges—including breaking barriers in the SEC and battling cancer three times. 🎧 Episode Highlights: Discover how Coach McCorvey started his coaching career. Learn about his transition from high school to college football. Hear his inspiring story of resilience through three battles with cancer. Explore his role at Clemson and how he motivates others through his perseverance. Stay connected: 📱 Follow Clemson Football: @ClemsonFB 🔗 Discover more episodes and resources: Inside the Headset If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, rate, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners with inspiring stories like Coach McCorvey’s.

This week on Inside the Headset, presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by O.C. Williams, Defensive Coordinator at Tuskegee University. Coach Williams reflects on his coaching journey, emphasizing the importance of gaining diverse experiences, navigating career transitions, and learning at every step. From starting as a player-turned-coach to his recent role at Tuskegee, Coach Williams offers valuable insights into his growth, challenges, and successes in the coaching profession. Whether you’re a coach, player, or football enthusiast, this episode is packed with lessons you won’t want to miss! Episode Highlights: Starting in the coaching profession Transitioning from player to coach at your alma mater Lessons learned from coaching Special Teams Balancing career moves and personal growth Taking over the defense at Tuskegee and future plans Be sure to subscribe to Inside the Headset for weekly episodes featuring top football coaches and leaders. If you enjoy the show, leave us a review it helps others discover this content. 🎧 Listen now and explore more episodes: Inside the Headset Podcast

On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by Jerheme Urban, Head Coach at Trinity University and a proud alum. Coach Urban takes us through his incredible journey—from setting records as a Trinity athlete to leading the Tigers as Head Coach since 2013. Discover how Coach Urban’s playing career shaped his coaching philosophy, the value of being a multi-sport athlete, and the strategies behind building a perennial playoff contender. 🕒 Episode Highlights & Timestamps: 1:21 – Introduction. 1:40 – When did you know you wanted to be a part of the coaching profession? 4:03 – Breaking into the profession. 7:12 – Looking back on your playing career and how it has helped you as a coach. 10:18 – Experience as a multi-sport athlete and the value of doing multiple sports. 12:29 – Learning to coach both sides of the ball. 14:37 – Acclimating to the coaching lifestyle. 16:12 – Becoming a full-time coach. 18:58 – Developing a scheme that fits the players you have. 21:28 – Becoming the head coach at Trinity. 24:49 – Weathering the storm in the early days as Head Coach. 31:38 – Preparing for the future, now. 35:09 – Finding your place as a Head Coach. 39:03 – Philosophy in hiring coaches. 42:43 – Building a program into a perennial playoff team. 45:43 – Passion and drive for the success of Trinity Football. 48:19 – Joining the AFCA Board of Trustees. 51:06 – Uniqueness and success of Trinity Football Camps. 54:13 – Conclusion. Follow Coach Urban and Trinity Football on Twitter: @JerhemeUrban83 & @TUFootballTX 🎙️ Subscribe and listen now for more coaching stories