Game Planning Tips - Scripting, Pressure, and Precision

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:

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

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

• 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.

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

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

• 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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