In this episode of Game Planning Tips, presented by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation, Coach Keith Grabowski highlights three key areas that shape every successful game plan:

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  Offense: How to script your openers and plan your “firsts” for key moments.

  
  


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  Defense: How to build a smarter pressure plan using self-scouting and sequencing.

  
  


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  Special Teams: How mission clarity and innovative teaching tools drive execution and energy.

  
  

Through insights from top coaches — Brian Michalowski (Oregon) and Ben Kotwica (Los Angeles Rams) — this episode gives you a framework for preparing your team with intent and precision.

1. Openers and Firsts – Keith Grabowski

The first 10–15 plays are more than a start. They’re an opportunity to gather defensive information, establish rhythm, and make pressure-free decisions. Keith explains how scripting and preplanning key “firsts” (like first-and-five or first after a turnover) create consistency and confidence on game day.

2. Creating a Pressure Plan – Brian Michalowski, Oregon

Learn how to design pressure packages that fit your players. Coach Michalowski outlines how self-awareness, carry-over teaching (“same-as” concepts), and thoughtful sequencing create aggressive yet disciplined defenses.

3. Mission, Momentum, and Modern Teaching – Ben Kotwica, Los Angeles Rams

Coach Kotwica shares how a clear mission defines every special teams play. He also discusses how technology tools like GoArmy Edge enhance teaching, communication, and player engagement — even without scout teams.

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  Script your openers to see and learn, not just start fast.

  
  


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  Build defensive pressures with intentional sequencing and player-driven design.

  
  


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  Treat special teams as a mission-based phase with clear goals and teaching methods.

  
  

This episode is brought to you by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation, a nonprofit organization supporting pediatric brain tumor research and families affected by cancer.

Founded through the game of football, LFG has raised over $2 million through clinics and community events led by coaches nationwide.

👉 Learn more, donate, or get involved at laurensfirstandgoal.org

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  Visit: coachandcoordinator.com

  
  


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  Follow on X/Twitter: @CoachKGrabowski

  
  


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  Subscribe to the Coach and Coordinator Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or your favorite platform for weekly insights from top coaches across the game.

  
  

Segment HighlightsKey Takeaways🏆 Presented by Lauren’s First and Goal Foundation🔗 Connect with Coach and Coordinator Network

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