Top of the Route

Justin Grandenetti and Mike Vannucci

5.0 (8)
Football
Updated Weekly

An all-encompassing podcast dedicated to the art, science, and mindset of elite wideout play. Film breakdowns, technical insights, and real conversations for players and coaches alike.

May 20

DJ Gillins

Coach DJ Gillins is a veteran coach with experience at a multitude of levels. He brings us through his coaching journey, and what/who has helped mold him into the coach he is today. We talk through some of his techniques and coaching points. More great wideout conversation!

1h 2m
May 13

Jacquon Gibson, University of Virginia

In our second player interview, we talk with one of the newest Cavaliers, Jacquon Gibson. A UMASS transfer, Gibson had a productive final season with the Minutemen, finishing 12th in FBS in receptions per game, with 6.3 a game. We talk his journey from high school to college, and where he has grown the most. The mindset he carries, and the routines that help keep him ready to compete, and a step above the rest. Another great listen for all current players!

58 min
May 6

Charles Torwudzo, USA Football

In this episode we are joined by Charles Torwudzo. A former wideout at Purdue University, and the current Director of Player Personnel with USA Football. "CT" gives us insight on his journey and passion for the position. We talk growth of flag football, and what he looks for when evaluating wideouts.

42 min
Apr 29

David Porter, Bethel High School (VA)

Coach David Porter from Bethel High School (VA) joins us for episode nine. Coach Porter is a veteran coach and wideout developer at multiple levels. He shares what he learned as a player and how it still translates now. His philosophies on the wideout position and practice have proven to help lead his players and teams to success over the years.

1h 10m
Apr 22

Stephen Amoako, Georgetown University

In this episode, Coach Stephen Amoako of Georgetown University stops in to chop it up with us. Having played DB at a very high level, he offers up some great perspective of wideout play through a defensive lens. Coach Amoako talks about the transition to the offensive side of the ball, and shares some of his philosophies he has instilled in his group. We talk about his AFCA Skills & Drills presentation, and dive in deep on releases and hand fighting. A truly insightful conversation that all can learn from.

1h 31m
Apr 15

Gary Green, Providence Day/Competitors Only

In this episode, we sat down with Coach Gary Green; he is the wideout coach and passing game coordinator for Providence Day School and the owner and operator of Competitors Only Sports. From playing career to coaching, we explore his journey and what got him loving the wideout position. One of the top wideout developers in his region, Coach Green expounds on his philosophies, coaching style, and drill implementation. He works with some of the top guys in the country, like Texas A&M's KC Concepcion, shares what separates him from the rest, and what his draft prep has been like. This in depth conversation on training structure, route techniques, mental toughness, and the importance of fundamentals and consistency, made for a truly insightful conversation.

1h 52m
Apr 8

Dan Villari, Syracuse University

In this inspiring interview, college football standout Dan Villari shares his journey from Long Island to the NFL, emphasizing the importance of mental toughness, foundational skills, and relentless work ethic. Discover how dedication, mental training, and intentional practice can elevate athletes to the next level.

1h 3m
Apr 1

Kevin Callahan Jr., Monmouth University

In this episode, Coach Callahan shares his journey from playing DB to coaching wide receivers, emphasizing the importance of fundamentals, decision-making, and culture in developing elite wideouts. The Monmouth passing attack has consistently been one of the tops in the country, and Coach is a big part of this success by the way he prepares his position group. He discusses drills, techniques, and the mindset needed to succeed at the college level and beyond. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 02:23 The Value of Guest Perspectives 04:12 Coaching Journey and Transition to Offense 07:41 Understanding Defensive Concepts for Offensive Success 11:29 Maximizing Player Potential and Versatility 15:11 Recruiting Philosophy and Player Characteristics 19:01 Managing a Talented Wide Receiver Room 22:35 Coaching Culture and Team Dynamics 26:05 Offensive Strategy and Success Factors 29:24 Maximizing Efficiency in Practice Sessions 33:01 Teaching Release Techniques for Receivers 40:14 The Importance of In-Stem Combat 43:56 Decision-Making in Drills 49:47 Emphasizing Break Points and Body Positioning 57:15 Coaching Speed Cuts and Body Language 01:04:37 Catching Techniques and Standards 01:08:30 Improving Player Performance and Resilience 01:14:22 Learning from Other Coaches and Experiences

1h 18m
Mar 25

Keith Williams, New Orleans Saints

In this episode, Coach Dubb breaks down his journey from player to wideout coach, highlighting the critical role of technique, mindset, and relentless improvement. He shares his unique approach to route running, releases, and the mental details that separate good players from elite ones. We dive into the value of authentic expertise, mental toughness, and what it truly means to stay “locked in.” Coach Dubb emphasizes continuous learning, intentional work, and the mindset required to succeed—not just in football, but in life. Drawing inspiration from greats like Kobe Bryant and Davante Adams, this conversation is packed with insight for anyone looking to elevate their game. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction 00:59 Playing Days and Influences in Football 01:37 Journey Through Different Leagues and Transition to Coaching 02:32 Influences and Mentors in Wideout Play 03:31 Key Lessons from Mentors on Route Technique and Preparation 04:48 The Importance of Consistency and Technique in Route Running 07:05 The Role of Quality Reps and Practice in Skill Development 09:24 Critique of Current Wide Receiver Drills and Practices 10:33 The Issue with Drills and the Concept of Authenticity 11:23 Egotism and Insecurity in Coaching and Technique Adoption 12:25 The Philosophy of Observation and Continuous Improvement 18:26 How Player and Coach Perspectives Shape Technique 19:38 The Myth of Speed and the Importance of Technique 21:22 The Truth About Arm Pump and Route Deception 23:46 Discovering the Hip Drop and Its Significance 28:47 The Critical Role of Attack and Vertical Stem in Breaks 32:08 Maximizing Separation and the Importance of Route Precision 38:23 Making the First Man Miss and Creating Big Plays 39:45 Practicing Elusiveness and Making the First Man Miss 40:58 Releases, Speed, and Situational Awareness 47:52 Teaching Fastball and Hand Combat in Releases 50:14 The Importance of Immediate Vertical Movement 52:19 The Role of Practice, Planning, and Player Mindset 55:22 Adapting Coaching to Player and Situation 56:10 The Evolution of Coaching Philosophy and Continuous Learning 1:01:59 The Difference Between True Experts and Self-Proclaimed 'Gurus' 1:04:21 The Mindset of Kobe Bryant and Devante Adams 1:06:56 The Importance of Locked-In Focus and Anticipation 1:10:33 Continuous Learning and Upgrading Coaching Software 1:13:47 Effort, Priorities, and the Will to Improve 1:17:17 The Role of Authenticity and Integrity in Coaching 1:20:28 The Impact of Preparation and Mental Toughness 1:23:26 The Value of Genuine Effort Over Talent Alone 1:25:56 Conclusion: Striving for Excellence and Growth

1h 32m
Mar 19

Joe Gerbino, Colgate University

We sat down with Joe Gerbino, WR coach and passing game coordinator for Colgate University. Coach Gerbino gives us insight on his position room at Colgate, his playing days as a WR, and his focuses as a coach to continue to develop his players. We also talk offensive scheme through the lens of the wideout!

1h 26m
Mar 11

The 4 Fundamental Movements of Wideout Play

In episode 2, we talk about the Mike Evans signing, and introduce the 4 fundamental movements of wideout play: Stance & Start, Hip Drop, Pressure Step, and Hip Shift. Purposely leaving off Hip Shift to dedicate a future episode to it, to where we speak about moving defenders off their platform.

1h 17m
Mar 4

Welcome to Top of the Route!

In this inaugural episode, Coach G and Coach Vannucci introduce their new podcast dedicated to wideout play, sharing their backgrounds, influences, and vision for the series. They discuss foundational techniques, influential coaches, and plans for future content including film breakdowns and guest appearances. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:21 Hosts and Their Backgrounds 04:13 Influences in Wideout Coaching 06:37 Fundamentals of Wideout Play 09:02 Body Language and Route Running 11:56 Networking and Collaboration in Coaching 15:33 Future Plans and Audience Engagement

20 min

12 Episodes

5

out of 5

8 Ratings

Always dropping GEMS

Apr 26

BK 29

Great podcast for more in depth conversations around the details & nuances of effective WR play!
💯

Mar 23

CB.1five

These guys know ball

An all-encompassing podcast dedicated to the art, science, and mindset of elite wideout play. Film breakdowns, technical insights, and real conversations for players and coaches alike.

Creator

Justin Grandenetti and Mike Vannucci
Years Active

2K
Episodes

12
Rating

Explicit
Copyright

© Justin Grandenetti and Mike Vannucci
Show Website

Top of the Route

Sports

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Updated Semiweekly