Steve Hilton asked:

What is the best Def for a 9-12 age football team

Mark’s answer:

Evaluated your talent, don't predetermine you Def. then force your assigned team to play it, unless you draft your players accordingly. Do you have speed, size, athletes? What ever Def you select will be fine as long as you practice it. To often Def. ... Continue reading »

Chris McClurg asked:

Any disadvantage to a 5-2 against a 9 year old team, with little or no pass threat??

Mark’s answer:

Nope 5x2 is well balance Def.
Blitz the Corners occasionally!
Throw in a 5x2 eagle configuartion too!

John De La Rosa asked:

I'm a new coach on defense jr. league. How do I know which kid to put at what position? big kids d-line and such. Please help

Mark’s answer:

Anchor your Def by putting the best tackler at MLB they don't have to be the best athlete just tough on tackling the next best tacklers make up your OLB they should be lighter on their feet. Smart or disciplined player at Ends and Corners. Mix speed wi... Continue reading »

Coach Scott asked:

I'm a 1st year football coach for 9-11 year olds. I hear it is best to only have 10-15 off. plays and 4-5 def. plays. What plays work best?

Mark’s answer:

3 plays executed well is better than 10 junk plays period. We won a championship with 5 Off plays 2 Def plays in the same age group. If the player is confident in their responsibilty that's unbeatable!

Jay Watson asked:

what is the best dicipline for kids goofing around on the sidelines

Mark’s answer:

Cleaning equipment, picking up garbage, on the field! If you run them you'll be doing it again and again...

Rudy Risinger asked:

football plays

Mark’s answer:

What specifically are looking for, Play books? What age group?

Courtnie Rogers asked:

i have a son who turns four in august what sports can he play an he is a couch potato an needs fresh air bad i live in long beach california

Mark’s answer:

Take away the video console, unplug the T.V. grab a book, camp, try social activities with a church if you desire. Sharing time with you is the greatest reward!

Carolus Bellinger asked:

how do you handle parents thats upset over their kid that has no passion for football or skills not getting much playing time.?

Mark’s answer:

Tough one coach,I often found it's those parents that use practice a daycare, encourage them to participate in practice or the organization.

Justin Dodge asked:

i'm looking for youth tackle football in the everett,wa area

Mark’s answer:

What league are you in? NCYFL or WESCO JR.

Steve Hilton asked:

wHAT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE MIDDLE LINEBACKER IN YOUTH FOOTBALL, AGES 10 TO 12

Mark’s answer:

Several Def. might use MLB 6x1, 4x3 or 5x3 In any case the MLB for me is the strongest tackler on the team, not necessarily the best athlete. MLB protects the 1 & 2 gaps (gaps either side of the center first) or A gaps depending on the system used. S... Continue reading »