The offensive line is chess at light speed, and if you want to understand how trenches really decide games, this episode is for you. Coach Jordan Filippelli breaks down the brutal truth about line play, player development, and why the teams that win up front usually win the war.What starts as a conversation about Canadian football quickly turns into a masterclass in offensive line mindset. Jordan shares how Alberta and U Sports develop big, physical linemen, why so many players get exposed when they stop doing the work, and what really changes when you go from high school to college, from college to pro, and then from player to coach. You'll discover:

• Why Canadian football creates chaos faster than most American fans expect
• The difference between real offensive line development and empty drill work
• Why five-man sleds and old-school shoots can build bad habits
• How inside zone, gap scheme, and double-team work actually get taught
• What makes fronts, stunts, and blitzes so hard to handle when the defense keeps changing the picture

Jordan also opens up about his own path - from academic struggles and a major weight loss transformation to being drafted by Ottawa, choosing school over the CFL, and eventually realizing coaching was the right next step. He talks candidly about the pressure of leading young linemen, learning to communicate and evaluate like a coach, and surviving seasons where injuries force you to rebuild the unit on the fly.If you coach offensive line, play in the trenches, or just love the details that decide football games, this one delivers real insight with no fluff. It's especially valuable for anyone who wants to understand how linemen are built, how coaches think, and why the smallest details in technique and communication can change everything.Jordan Filippelli is an offensive line coach with the Alberta Golden Bears, formerly with UBC, where he helped develop future NFL linemen. He also brings experience from the Calgary Dinos, Ottawa Redblacks, Bev Facey High School, and Team Alberta U16, giving him a rare perspective across every level of the game.

Instagram: @Coach_filly

X-: Bigfilly67

https://bearsandpandas.ca/sports/football/roster/coaches/jordan-filippelli/1861

Unlock the secrets of dominating the trenches and transforming your offensive line play with insights from Coach Rafael Aguilar, a rising star in high school football coaching. From his journey starting in Sacramento to coaching elite linemen across college programs and now shaping the future at Choctaw High in Oklahoma, Rafael reveals how mastery of the basics can change everything

In this episode, he shares practical drills that develop movement, power, and fit—crucial for young linemen and seasoned veterans alike. Discover his foundational approach to stance, first steps, and punch that turns raw talent into game-changing strength. Rafael emphasizes that consistent reps, routine, and innovation—like med ball training and creative redirect drills—are key to unlocking power and speed in the trenches.We break down tactical thoughts: how to adjust your scheme based on personnel, the importance of clear communication (even understanding if your lineman has a "baby"), and the delicate balance of routine and adaptation in-season versus spring practice. Gain perspective on scheming with duo, zone variations, and even unorthodox concepts like crunch or influence trap that push evolution.This episode is essential for offensive line coaches, players eager to elevate technique, and football enthusiasts craving a deeper understanding of one of the game’s most undervalued units. Rafael’s personal stories—sleeping in stadiums, learning Hawaiian culture, and building a linemen academy—add flavor and real-world grit.Get ready to unlock the discipline, innovation, and passion it takes to master the line, because when you control the trenches, you win the war. Tune in now—your best offensive line is waiting.

Rafael Aguilar was the offensive line coach and run game coordinator at Choctaw High School in Oklahoma. He has now moved on to be the OC at American River College, returning to his alma mater. With background experience from Washington State, Hawaii, and multiple college programs, he's known for producing NFL draft choices, bowl teams, and developing the next generation of linemen.

@rafaelAguilar

@football_POA

Most teams overlook the true secret to winning—whether in football or in life: mastering the trenches. Justin Bisson, Maine’s new head coach at Lewiston High, reveals how controlling the line of scrimmage is more than just technique—it’s attitude, discipline, and relentless competition. His story is a testament to perseverance, balance, and leadership—juggling a demanding job, coaching for 28 years, and building a team from the bottom up, all while embracing his players' unique personalities and grit.

You'll discover: how a coach’s discipline and love for the game shape high school athletes into confident leaders; the power of competition to ignite a relentless attitude; the mindset that pushes linemen to be "bigger than you, meaner than you, and stronger than you." Justin shares his innovative approaches to blocking, film study, and developing a winning culture—lessons that go far beyond football.

This episode is essential for coaches, players, and anyone hungry to understand the real work behind victory—embracing the grind, building relationships, and transforming a team through leadership and passion. If you believe greatness happens in the trenches, this conversation will leave you inspired to step up your game—on the field, in your community, and in life.

Perfect for coaches seeking fresh ideas, players dreaming of leadership, and fans who love a good fight—that’s where champions are made.

Remember: master the trenches, win the war.

Keywords

football coaching, offensive line, leadership, Maine high school football, coaching techniques, team building, offensive schemes, player development

Key Topics

Offensive line fundamentals and techniques

Team leadership and player development

Simplified offensive schemes and drills

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Trenchometry and Coaching Journey

03:05 Balancing Work and Coaching Responsibilities

05:53 Film Study and Game Preparation

08:47 Understanding Maine's High School Football Structure

11:58 Coaching Philosophy and Offensive Line Development

14:32 Offensive Strategy and Attitude Building

17:42 Techniques and Drills for Offensive Linemen

20:30 Combo Blocks and Game Situations

27:31 Inside Leg and Communication in Blocking

30:17 Pass Protection Techniques and Drills

34:42 Game Preparation and Avoiding Catastrophic Mistakes

40:26 Offensive Play Calling and Strategy

46:02 Leadership Development in Football

50:17 Building Relationships and Team Culture

55:56 Humor and Character in the Offensive Line