This is Part 2 of the 3 part series “The Culture of the Unit”. This post will go into the important aspects of Communication, Preparation, Adaptability, and Accountability.
Part 1 is here.
Part 3 is here.
Communication: The Silent Weapon
There's a symphony of words, signals, and gestures that unfold on the line before each snap. Effective communication helps the line adjust to defensive shifts, understand changes in play calls, and execute complex schemes.
Coach's Role
The coach should develop a communication system that is simple yet versatile enough to accommodate various plays and scenarios. This system should be practiced to the point where it becomes second nature to each player.
Player's Role
Players must invest in learning this system and applying it during practices and games. The line should communicate effectively amongst themselves, ensuring everyone is on the same page before the ball is snapped.
Preparation: Film Study and Mental Rehearsals
Preparation is the homework of football. It’s what happens off the field that often dictates the result on it.
Coach's Role
Coaches should organize and lead film-study sessions, breaking down not just the opponent’s tendencies but also the team’s performance in previous games. It’s also beneficial for coaches to help players understand how to mentally rehearse plays, a skill that enhances cognitive performance during games.
Player's Role
Players should take these film sessions seriously, absorbing lessons and applying them during practice. The more diligent players might even go beyond team sessions, studying film or strategizing during their free time.
Adaptability: The Unseen Skill
Football is a game of ever-changing variables. An effective offensive line should be versatile enough to adapt to new situations on the fly.
Coach's Role
Coaches can nurture adaptability through diversified practice routines that include a mix of plays and defensive looks. The key is not to allow players to get too comfortable or complacent.
Player's Role
Players should embrace this variety, viewing each new challenge as an opportunity to learn and grow. They should also be open to feedback and willing to adapt their techniques and strategies as needed.
Accountability: The Self-Check Mechanism
Being accountable means owning up to mistakes and striving to correct them. It's this commitment to self-improvement that sets great teams apart.
Coach's Role
Coaches must set the example by acknowledging their own mistakes and showing how they learn from them. They should also foster an environment where players feel safe to admit errors and seek help in correcting them.
Player's Role
Players build accountability by owning their actions, both good and bad. When a play goes wrong, instead of pointing fingers, they should analyze their own role in the failure and strive to improve.
Savage Style is OLine all the time
