Contacts Episode #162: Herm Edwards

ESPN Analyst and Former NFL and NCCA Head Football Coach

October 06, 2023

Welcome to this edition of the "The Coaching Journey," a newsletter dedicated to sharing insights and advice from experienced coaches. This week we are joined by Herm Edwards, ESPN analyst and former Head Coach of the NY Jets, KC Chiefs and ASU Sun Devils. Discover the insights and wisdom Coach Herm shared during the interview, which will surely resonate with both new and experienced coaches. Let's jump right in!

10 Key Insights from Herm Edwards: An Exclusive Interview

  1. Trust and Respect are Fundamental: Building trust among players and coaches is crucial for a successful team. Trust is earned through consistency, honesty, and respect. Players need to trust each other and trust their coaches. Respect is reciprocal and vital for creating a positive team culture.

  2. Adaptability and Flexibility in Coaching Systems: Coaching systems should be flexible and adaptable to fit the strengths and weaknesses of the players. The system should serve the players, not the other way around. Coaches should be willing to adjust their strategies based on the capabilities of their team members.

  3. Decision-Making as a Head Coach: As a head coach, decision-making is paramount. Decisions range from personnel choices to in-game strategies. Listening to your instincts and reading the situation is crucial. Head coaches need to trust their judgment while being open to suggestions and feedback from the coaching staff.

  4. Focus on System and Player Fit: A successful team requires a balance between a coach's preferred system and the players' abilities. Coaches should evaluate if their system is a good fit for the players they have. If not, adjustments need to be made either in the system or the player roster.

  5. Continuous Observation and Adaptation: Coaches need to be keen observers. Watching players closely during practice and games helps in understanding their strengths and areas for improvement. This observation informs coaching decisions and allows for necessary adjustments in strategies and player roles.

“Suggestions are always welcome. Coaches should have open communication, and you should foster an environment where ideas can be shared. But at the end of the day, decisions have to be made, and they have to align with the overall team strategy and goals.”

Herm Edwards

  • Balancing Offense and Defense: Coach Edwards emphasized the importance of balance between offense and defense. He spent more time in offensive meetings to ensure a balance that protected the defense. Complimentary football was crucial, meaning the offense needed to protect the defense by controlling the game, making first downs, and possessing the ball.

  • Situational Football: Edwards highlighted the significance of situational football. Coaches and players needed to understand how to play in specific situations, such as fourth downs or third and long. Being prepared for various scenarios and having specific plans for critical situations was a key aspect of coaching.

  • Involvement in Decision-Making: As a head coach, Edwards stressed the importance of being involved in critical decision-making moments during the game. He wanted to know the best plays for specific situations, whether it was converting a third down or making a defensive stop on fourth down. Edwards put stress on his players and coaches to make well-thought-out decisions under pressure.

  • Importance of Quarterbacks: Edwards highlighted the significance of having a talented quarterback in today's game. Scoring high points, especially above 35, has become essential for winning games. Having a skilled quarterback who can lead the offense and score points is crucial at all levels of football.

  • Self-Belief and Work Ethic: Edwards emphasized the importance of self-belief and a strong work ethic. He shared his personal journey of betting on himself, working hard, and being willing to make sacrifices to achieve his goals. Edwards stressed the value of putting in the work, being prepared, and having a relentless desire to compete and succeed.

"What are you willing to give up now to be successful later on? Most people are not. I was different. I was willing to give up all this to go here. That was just me. Nobody taught me that. I just fell into it, because that was how I thought."

Herm Edwards

In conclusion, our interview with Herm Edwards emphasizes the importance of these takeaways emphasize the strategic, situational, and mental aspects of coaching, underscoring the importance of preparation, adaptability, and self-belief in the world of football. We encourage you to reflect on these key points and apply them to your own journey.

Watch his episode here: You Tube

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Best regards, Justin Clymo

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