Planning for Plan B

You always have to the next player ready because the starter is only 1 play away from an injury...As 4 the 2 starters who have announced their retirements due to stress at home, I would set up home visits in order to conference with them and their parents....You need to find out What the Real Deal is....

Coach,
We are in this situation on a regular basis because that is the size of our guards on a regular basis. Once in a while we will get players of your size. For your reference we play in the largest school division. We are not a small school. We have approx. 1800 students in our high school.

You must consider a few things before worrying about whether or not these players can fit the position:

1. What is your offensive scheme?
2. How strong are they?
3. What is their quickness like?
4. How tough they are?

1. Your offensive scheme can play a major factor in whether or not they will be a factor or not in the offense. The best system for smaller linemen is one in which deception and speed are utilized. This will minimize the size advantage somewhat. In addition, using a counter and trapping offense will slow a defender down because of the threat of being trapped. The two great equalizers in offensive football is option and the pass.

2. If they are strong then do not make the mistake of assuming they will not get the job done. You must ALWAYS test and challenge the defense. I have heard coaches say things about well a guard can not reach a 3 tech, even before the game has started. To make assumption about a player or scheme is not very smart. Be ready for the adjustment, but do not assume they can not do what you want. They probably will get the job done. It is HS football, not pro or even college.

3. If they are faster then this will present some more options to you.

4. Toughness is probably one of the most overlooked yet important factors to consider. I have seen plenty of athletes who by their physical stature would be deemed as being a player, however, they lacked toughness and were easily pushed around. On the other hand, I have seen smaller players who were tough as nails and were great high school players.

Any more questions you can email me at JWright@pinebushschools.org

Karjaw

Karjaw, Ack, & Da Nation,
Thanks for the advice! After I read your posts on Friday, I quit panicking & started evaluating. Several things calmed me down & made me feel confident again.

1: We run the option.

2: My 2 back up guards & back up center are all getting strong right now in the weight room. THEY are the ones lifting...I'm having trouble getting my starters in there.

3: I will begin to work on speed soon (thanks for the tip Karjaw)...& I will coach 'em up Nation.

4: I think I will attempt a home visit. I've spoken to several parents on the phone but I've consistently heard how helpful that home visits can be. I think I'll try it and see what happens. I'll let you know.

Thanks for the advice fellas! It helps when you're young and inexperienced.

Karjaw, what offense do you run?

Chewbaka
We run the multiple wing T offense. We are not Delaware oriented.
Karjaw