LEGENDARY QUOTE:
#Rams head coach Sean McVay said in order to grow as a person you need to struggle in life.
“Show me anybody that's great in anything they do, I'll show you somebody that's persevered, demonstrated that mental toughness to overcome some obstacles and adversity”
There is real value in studying how other systems communicate protection.
Not to copy language.
To refine structure.
Every protection system is solving the same core problem. Identify the front, account for pressure, preserve pocket integrity. What changes is how cleanly that information is transferred from the quarterback to the unit.
When you study West Coast protection language, you start to see tools that can improve clarity:
Dual communicates a balanced structure. Both sides are prepared for odd fronts, allowing the protection to adjust between the Guard and Tackle without overcommitting early. This 2-for3 call is useful against late movement or disguised fronts where post-snap sort becomes critical.
Lucy / Ricky simplifies full slide direction. It removes unnecessary language and speeds up communication in tempo situations. The value is not the word. The value is reducing processing time for all eleven.
These are not just words. They are compression tools. They reduce mental load so execution can remain disciplined.
Protection is a quarterback skill. If the language is inefficient, the unit plays slow. If the language is clean, the unit plays fast and with cohesion. Coaches are responsible for keeping that alignment.
Good systems give you answers.
Great quarterbacks study systems to improve their own.
Sometimes the difference in command is not talent.
It is communication structure.
RIP Coach Johnson. Had the privilege of being coached by Bob when I participated in the Elite 11. Truly enjoyed the opportunity to learn from him and always had a great admiration for his coaching prowess. He was an elite football coach and leader.
RIP Bob Johnson, legendary California high school football coach and the first head coach of the Elite 11. A true pioneer at the QB position, Bob brought amazing energy and passion to the sport. Elite 11 would not be where it is today without Coach Johnson. His impact on the game will live on, and we will miss him dearly.