Podcast Title: Bubba On the Lake
Episode: #24 Coach Charles Kelly, and a New Knee
Release Date: July 31, 2025
Host: Bill "Bubba" Bussey

Introduction

In the 24th installment of "Bubba On the Lake," host Bill "Bubba" Bussey welcomes Coach Charles Kelly, the newly appointed head coach of the Jack State Gamecocks. This episode offers an in-depth exploration of Coach Kelly's illustrious career, his coaching philosophies, and his aspirations for the Jack State football program. Interspersed with engaging dialogues and personal anecdotes, Bubba provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of what Coach Kelly brings to the table.

Coach Charles Kelly’s Journey to Jack State

Early Influences and Auburn Beginnings

Coach Kelly begins by detailing his roots in Southeast Alabama, where his father served as a high school football coach. Growing up amidst the rigors of football seasons, Kelly developed an early passion for coaching. This passion led him to Auburn University, where he walked on to the football team under the mentorship of Coach Terry Bowden and Defensive Coordinator Wayne Hall.

Coach Charles Kelly [10:53]:
"I walked on at Auburn, which was one of the toughest things, but I'm glad I did it because I wouldn't be where I am right now."

His tenure at Auburn was marked by significant achievements, including winning two national championships—one with Florida State and another with Alabama—before embarking on his current role at Jack State.

Extensive Coaching Experience

Learning from the Best

Throughout the conversation, Coach Kelly elaborates on his diverse coaching experiences across various institutions and under renowned coaches. He emphasizes the invaluable lessons learned from each stint, shaping his holistic approach to coaching.

Coach Charles Kelly [28:27]:
“Coaching for Coach Saban, they said, what was he good at? He was good at everything. Everything.”

Working under legends like Nick Saban at Alabama and Jimbo Fisher at Florida State, Kelly absorbed strategies and leadership qualities that have defined his coaching methodology. His roles ranged from defensive coordinator to special teams coordinator, providing him with a well-rounded perspective on the game.

Philosophies on Recruitment and Player Development

Focused Recruitment Strategies

A significant portion of the episode delves into Coach Kelly’s approach to recruiting. He shares a pivotal story illustrating the importance of aligning recruitment efforts strictly with football talent, rather than deviating into other sports disciplines.

Coach Charles Kelly [17:53]:
“He reminded me that we weren't recruiting a basketball team. We were recruiting football players.”

This anecdote underscores his commitment to maintaining a clear and focused recruitment strategy, ensuring that every player brought into the program is dedicated to excelling in football.

Emphasis on Player Development

Beyond recruitment, Coach Kelly highlights the necessity of continuous player development. He believes that nurturing talent and fostering discipline are paramount to building a successful team.

Coach Charles Kelly [30:56]:
“What separates the great coaches from the good coaches, is when you do that now, you got to develop. You got to develop your coaches, you got to develop your support staff, you got to develop your players.”

Memorable Moments: National Championship Against Auburn

A Personal Victory

One of the most riveting segments of the podcast is Coach Kelly’s recounting of leading his team to a national championship victory against Auburn, his alma mater. This game symbolizes both professional achievement and personal fulfillment.

Coach Charles Kelly [21:18]:
“It was a surreal moment for me as anything that's ever happened in coaching.”

He describes the intense preparation, the strategic execution—including a crucial fake punt that shifted the game’s momentum—and the overwhelming emotion felt upon securing the championship.

Strategic Decisions Under Pressure

Coach Kelly provides a deep dive into the tactical decisions made during the game, particularly focusing on special teams' plays that proved instrumental in their victory.

Coach Charles Kelly [24:18]:
“We went with the fake punt first. We actually had another one planned for later in the game because nobody ever fakes two in a game.”

These decisions, he explains, were a testament to the meticulous planning and adaptability of his coaching staff, ensuring their team remained unpredictable and resilient under pressure.

Vision and Plans for Jack State

Building a Competitive Program

As the new head coach of Jack State, Coach Kelly outlines his strategic vision aimed at transforming the Gamecocks into a formidable force in college football. His plan encompasses both offensive and defensive enhancements, emphasizing speed, discipline, and aggressive play.

Coach Charles Kelly [35:59]:
“When people watch us play, I want them to say, man, these guys are fast, they're physical, they're tough, they are disciplined, and they will compete.”

Balancing Traditional Strategies with Modern Football

Acknowledging the evolution of college football, Coach Kelly balances traditional strategies with modern innovations to keep the team competitive. He stresses the importance of a well-rounded offense that can both run and pass effectively, complemented by a stout defense capable of relentless pressure.

Coach Charles Kelly [37:50]:
“If you do all of those things, you'll win all the games you're supposed to and some of them that you're not supposed to coach.”

Leadership and Team Dynamics

Influence of Coaching Legends

Coach Kelly attributes much of his leadership style to the influences of his predecessors, particularly emphasizing the comprehensive knowledge and adaptability he learned from Nick Saban.

Coach Charles Kelly [30:56]:
“Coach Saban was a master at everything. He understood what he wanted and had a knack for making everybody in the building push in that same direction.”

Fostering a Collaborative Environment

He believes in creating a collaborative environment where every team member, from players to support staff, is aligned with the program’s goals. This approach ensures that the team operates seamlessly, maximizing their collective potential.

Personal Insights and Upcoming Challenges

Navigating Personal Health

Towards the end of the episode, Bubba discusses personal matters, notably his impending knee replacement surgery. This segment adds a personal touch to the podcast, showcasing the camaraderie between Bubba and Coach Kelly.

Bubba [54:36]:
“We're going to be getting a knee replacement. Please keep me on your prayer list.”

This candid conversation highlights the human aspect behind the professional facade, resonating with listeners who may be facing similar challenges.

Conclusion

Episode #24 of "Bubba On the Lake" offers a compelling blend of professional insights and personal anecdotes, painting a vivid picture of Coach Charles Kelly’s journey and vision. From his grassroots beginnings in Alabama to leading a national championship team, Kelly’s story is one of dedication, strategic brilliance, and unwavering passion for football. As he steps into his role at Jack State, listeners are left with a sense of anticipation and excitement for the future of the Gamecocks under his leadership.

Notable Quotes:

• Coach Charles Kelly [10:46]:
  “I walked on at Auburn, which was one of the toughest things, but I'm glad I did it because I wouldn't be where I am right now.”

• Coach Charles Kelly [17:53]:
  “He reminded me that we weren't recruiting a basketball team. We were recruiting football players.”

• Coach Charles Kelly [21:18]:
  “It was a surreal moment for me as anything that's ever happened in coaching.”

• Coach Charles Kelly [28:27]:
  “Coaching for Coach Saban, they said, what was he good at? He was good at everything. Everything.”

• Coach Charles Kelly [35:59]:
  “When people watch us play, I want them to say, man, these guys are fast, they're physical, they're tough, they are disciplined, and they will compete.”

• Bubba [54:36]:
  “We're going to be getting a knee replacement. Please keep me on your prayer list.”

Final Thoughts

"Bubba On the Lake" continues to deliver engaging and insightful content, with Episode #24 serving as a testament to the podcast’s commitment to showcasing diverse perspectives. Coach Charles Kelly’s interview not only sheds light on his impressive career but also offers listeners valuable lessons in leadership, strategy, and personal growth. As Bubba navigates his own personal challenges, the episode beautifully balances professional discourse with heartfelt conversations, making it a memorable addition to the series.