04/22/2026
I’ve had the privilege of working alongside great coaches moss_jarvis and — developing the advanced skills of defensive linemen.
Over the past few weeks, we’ve focused on attention and self-talk.
Not just what to think — but how to think when it matters.
We’ve broken it down into:
• Thinking vs. Doing
• Broad vs. Narrow focus
• Instructional vs. Inspirational self-talk
Because defense is demanding.
It requires power, awareness, and discipline — all at once.
It’s easy to walk to the line, put your hand down, and react.
But when athletes learn to funnel their focus and connect it to a clear task…
that’s when performance becomes intentional.
Before each drill, I ask:
• What type of task is this?
• What 1–3 words will guide you through it?
This gives athletes a moment to think, commit, and apply.
And it gives us, as coaches, a window into how they’re processing —
so we can reinforce it when the moment gets tough.
That’s how culture is built.
Not just through effort — but through understanding.
It’s a privilege to do this work in the field of mental performance.
Coaches — what cues do your athletes use before a rep?
