Ben Johnson prioritizes “explosive plays” to energize the team, create momentum, and secure big game-changing moments on the field.

In the high-stakes world of competitive football, the difference between victory and defeat often comes down to a handful of critical moments. For Miami Hurricanes’ assistant coach Ben Johnson, these moments are defined by what he calls “explosive plays.” Johnson’s coaching philosophy centers on the idea that creating big, impactful plays can shift momentum, energize teammates, and ultimately decide the outcome of games.

This article explores Ben Johnson’s emphasis on explosive plays, how this focus influences the team’s preparation and in-game strategies, and why these moments matter so much in football’s fast-paced environment.

What Are “Explosive Plays”?

In football terminology, “explosive plays” refer to those rare but pivotal moments when a player or unit makes a sudden, significant gain—whether a long touchdown run, a deep pass completion, a turnover return, or a defensive stop that dramatically shifts field position. These plays stand out because they have the potential to change the game’s narrative within seconds.

Ben Johnson defines explosive plays as more than just big yardage gains; they represent opportunities to seize control of the momentum, demoralize the opponent, and ignite the crowd. They are often the result of preparation, athleticism, and a bit of risk-taking.

Ben Johnson’s Coaching Philosophy

Ben Johnson’s coaching career has been marked by his passion for an aggressive, dynamic style of play. He believes football should be exciting and that players should always be looking for ways to make game-changing contributions.

In his current role, Johnson emphasizes speed, precision, and creativity in both practice and gameplay. His training sessions are designed to hone players’ ability to recognize and capitalize on opportunities for explosive plays, whether through breakaway runs, deep throws, or opportunistic defensive plays.

The Importance of Explosive Plays in Football

Explosive plays matter because they can:

• Shift Momentum: Football is a game of momentum swings. One big play can lift a team’s spirits and intimidate opponents.
• Create Scoring Opportunities: Breaking through defenses for long gains or turnovers often leads to points.
• Force Opponent Adjustments: When a team consistently generates explosive plays, opponents may change their strategy, opening up other opportunities.
• Engage the Fanbase: Explosive plays thrill fans and increase energy both on the field and in the stands.

Johnson stresses that while consistent, methodical football is important, having a team capable of delivering explosive plays adds a vital edge.

How Ben Johnson Develops Explosive Playmakers

Identifying Athleticism and Instincts

Johnson focuses on recruiting and developing players who possess not only physical talent but also instincts that allow them to anticipate and exploit weaknesses quickly. These instincts are crucial for spotting the right moment to break away from coverage or find a running lane.

Drills and Practice

Training under Johnson involves drills that simulate real-game explosive scenarios—such as open-field tackling, quick reads, and situational awareness exercises. Players practice catching passes in stride, breaking tackles, and making split-second decisions under pressure.

Film Study and Mental Preparation

Johnson encourages players to study opponents’ tendencies to predict and capitalize on opportunities. Understanding when and where explosive plays are likely helps players position themselves for success.

Offensive Strategies to Foster Explosive Plays

Johnson, who has strong offensive coaching credentials, designs schemes that maximize the potential for big plays:

• Spread Offense Elements: Spreading the defense thin creates more space for receivers and running backs to make plays.
• Play-Action and Misdirection: These tactics confuse defenses, creating openings for explosive gains.
• Quarterback Freedom: Encouraging quarterbacks to take calculated risks on deep throws helps generate big plays downfield.
• Utilizing Speed: Deploying fast players in space to exploit mismatches is a core component.

The offense under Johnson is designed to balance consistency with the potential for sudden, game-breaking moments.

Defensive Approaches to Create Explosive Plays

On defense, Johnson stresses aggression and opportunism:

• Ball-Hawking Secondary: Defensive backs are coached to anticipate passes and create turnovers, leading to interception returns or forced fumbles.
• Blitz Packages: Designed to pressure the quarterback quickly, forcing hurried throws that can be intercepted or lead to sacks.
• Defensive Line Penetration: Disrupting the backfield can result in tackles for loss or strip-sacks.
• Turnover Emphasis: Teaching defenders to always look for opportunities to force turnovers is a key to creating explosive plays.

Defense, according to Johnson, is not just about stopping yards but about creating opportunities to flip the field and score.

Impact on Team Morale and Culture

Explosive plays can galvanize a team. Johnson notes that when a player makes a big play, the energy on the sidelines and the crowd often shifts dramatically. This boost in morale can lead to elevated performance across the board.

Johnson works to build a culture where every player understands their role in creating or supporting explosive plays. Whether it’s a receiver making a deep catch or a lineman creating a hole, each contribution is valued.

Real-World Examples: Explosive Plays Turning Games Around

Throughout his coaching career, Johnson has witnessed firsthand how explosive plays have flipped the script in crucial moments:

• A 70-yard touchdown run that broke a tied game late in the fourth quarter.
• A defensive interception returned for a touchdown that swung momentum in a conference championship.
• A perfectly executed trick play resulting in an unexpected touchdown catch.

These moments, Johnson says, become legendary not just because of the yards gained but because of their timing and impact on the game’s narrative.

Preparing for the 2025 Season: Johnson’s Focus

As the Miami Hurricanes approach the 2025 season, Ben Johnson’s emphasis on explosive plays is a key part of their game plan. The team’s offseason has included specialized training to enhance speed, reaction time, and playmaking skills.

Johnson’s message to the team is clear: “Be ready to seize every opportunity. Explosive plays don’t just happen—they are made. Preparation meets opportunity, and we have to be ready.”

Challenges and Risks of Prioritizing Explosive Plays

While explosive plays can win games, they also carry risks:

• Increased Risk of Turnovers: Aggressive plays can sometimes backfire, leading to interceptions or fumbles.
• Potential for Inconsistency: Focusing too much on big plays might lead to neglecting steady, fundamental football.
• Defensive Adjustments: Opponents may adjust their game plan to limit big-play opportunities.

Johnson balances these risks by stressing smart aggression—players must understand when to take chances and when to play safe.

Ben Johnson’s preference for explosive plays is more than a catchy phrase—it encapsulates a strategic approach to football that values momentum, energy, and seizing game-changing opportunities. His commitment to developing players who can deliver these moments positions Miami’s football program for exciting and competitive seasons ahead.

As fans look forward to the Hurricanes’ 2025 campaign, one thing is clear: when Miami takes the field, they’ll be ready to make explosive plays that ignite the team, electrify the crowd, and ultimately, win games.