(Photo via newspressnow.com)

Abilene (Texas) Christian University head coach Adam Dorrel is today’s guest on the USA Football Coach and Coordinator Podcast. Dorrel, the winningest active head coach in NCAA football (76-8), was named ACU coach in December after guiding Northwest Missouri State to three NCAA Division II national titles, including the 2015 and 2016 crowns. He was voted the American Football Coaches Association National Coach of the Year in 2013 and 2015. On the podcast, Dorrel discusses the move to Abilene Christian, his emphasis on academics and community involvement, and the importance of family and culture in his program.

Show notes

• 0:51        The challenges of taking over a successful, tradition-rich program
• 2:30        Advice for coaches trying to take over a winning program
• 3:36        How to establish your own culture
• 4:40       Why you should emphasize academics
• 6:06       How to recruit to fit your culture
• 7:59        Standing firm on your principles when you get pushback
• 8:57        How to get your program involved in the community
• 10:35      The importance of community and school pride
• 12:26      How to cultivate physical and mental toughness
• 14:39     Why Dorrel left a comfortable, successful situation
• 16:50     How to build your on-field philosophy
• 18:28     The importance of character and working efficiently
• 21:31      Emphasizing a family feeling
• 22:49     What gives Dorrel’s team the winning edge