n the fast-paced, highly competitive world of college football, every program is constantly searching for that next level of talent that can elevate their team. But behind every great player is a coach who has a vision and a unique way of identifying and nurturing talent. Tim Plough, one of the rising stars in the coaching world, is known not only for his offensive brilliance but also for his distinct recruiting philosophy. Plough, whose reputation is growing across the college football landscape, knows what it takes to find players who will thrive in his system—and more importantly, become successful on and off the field.
A System Built on Trust and Communication
Plough’s recruiting philosophy is grounded in the principle of finding players who fit both the system and the culture of his program. He emphasizes the importance of clear, honest communication, building trust with recruits from the moment they’re first introduced to the program.
"Recruiting isn't just about talent, it's about trust," Plough said in a recent interview. "I want to bring in players who are going to buy into what we’re trying to build here. They need to understand our system, but more importantly, they need to understand the kind of character we’re looking for."
For Plough, it's all about alignment. He believes in recruiting players who will mesh well with the values of his program, players who are willing to embrace both the challenges of being a student-athlete and the responsibility that comes with playing at the college level.
"I’m looking for guys who are mentally tough and want to improve every day," Plough explained. "It’s easy to look at a highlight reel and get excited, but the real work begins when they step on campus. We need players who understand that it’s not just about football—it’s about everything they represent as athletes, students, and individuals."
Prioritizing Versatility and Intelligence
Tim Plough is renowned for his innovative offensive schemes, which require athletes who are not only physically gifted but also intellectually sharp. His system demands versatility, with players needing to adapt quickly to multiple roles. Whether it’s a quarterback who can read defenses or a wide receiver who can run various routes with precision, Plough values players who have the ability to think on their feet and adapt.
“We need players who are intelligent and versatile,” Plough said. “Football is a thinking game. The athletes we bring in need to be able to digest complex playbooks and adjust on the fly. I want players who love to learn and are willing to put in the time to study the game.”
This philosophy is especially important at the quarterback position, where Plough's system relies on quarterbacks who can make quick decisions under pressure. He’s quick to note that raw talent isn’t enough—players must demonstrate mental acuity and maturity.
"I always tell my quarterbacks that they’re the brain of the offense," Plough shared. "We’re not just looking for an arm—we want someone who can process the game at a high level. It’s about reading defenses, making quick decisions, and being able to adjust on the fly. We need players who can handle that responsibility."
A Commitment to Development
While recruiting top-tier talent is important, Plough places an equal emphasis on developing players once they arrive on campus. He believes in recruiting athletes with high potential who are hungry for growth. To him, development doesn’t stop when the signing day celebrations end—it’s a year-round effort that involves attention to both physical and mental development.
"I don’t just want a player who’s good right now. I want a player who can get better every year," Plough said. "That’s where we come in as coaches. It’s about helping these young men become the best version of themselves—not just as football players, but as people."
Plough’s focus on development is reflected in his coaching approach. He’s known for being hands-on, working closely with players to refine their skills and improve their football IQ. "We’re always looking for players who want to develop," he added. "The guys who have the drive to get better every day are the ones who will succeed in our program."
Emphasizing the Importance of Character
Perhaps the most defining characteristic of Plough’s recruiting philosophy is his focus on character. For him, the character of the individual is just as important as their on-field ability. He’s looking for players who will fit seamlessly into the team environment and who will be positive contributors to the program’s culture.
"I don’t care how talented you are if you don’t have the right mindset," Plough emphasized. "We’re not just recruiting football players—we’re recruiting young men who will represent our program with pride. The right character is non-negotiable."
For Plough, the ideal recruit is someone who not only excels in football but also has a strong sense of discipline, accountability, and leadership. He looks for players who show respect for the game, their teammates, and the coaching staff.
"The character of our players is everything," Plough noted. "When you have a group of guys who trust each other and who hold themselves accountable, that’s when the magic happens on the field. We want guys who are going to lead by example, both on and off the field."
Looking Ahead: A Legacy in the Making
As Tim Plough’s reputation continues to grow in the world of college football, his recruiting philosophy is becoming a blueprint for success. His ability to identify talent and mold it into championship-caliber teams has already made a significant impact, and it’s clear that his approach is designed for long-term success.
"The recruiting process is just the beginning," Plough said. "Once we get them here, it’s our job to help them reach their full potential. We’re in this together, and when we all buy into the process, there’s nothing we can’t achieve."
Tim Plough’s recruiting philosophy is simple yet effective: recruit players with high potential, foster an environment of trust and development, and prioritize character above all else. It’s a proven strategy that promises continued success, both for his program and for the players he coaches.
Success in the Modern Landscape of College Football
Transitioning from FCS to FBS: A New Era for UC Davis
One of the most significant challenges of Plough's tenure at UC Davis has been the school’s move from the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) to the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) and the subsequent shift to a new conference. This transition is monumental for any program, but for Plough, it’s an opportunity to elevate UC Davis’ status in college football.
"When I first came here, we were in the FCS, but we always had our eyes set on FBS,” Plough explained. "Making the jump is about more than just moving up a level—it’s about changing the culture, the mindset, and the expectations of the program."
The move from FCS to FBS is a significant leap in terms of resources, competition, and visibility. FBS programs typically have larger budgets, more sophisticated facilities, and a deeper recruiting pool. This shift requires not only a transformation on the field but also a rethinking of how to build the program, attract talent, and compete at the highest level.
For Plough, the focus is on recruiting players who not only have the physical attributes to compete but also the mental fortitude to handle the increased pressure and demands of FBS football. "The mindset shift is massive. We need to recruit players who are ready to take that leap, who are hungry for the challenge," he said. "When you step up to FBS, you’re not just playing for a team—you’re playing for the respect of a whole new level of competition."
The added exposure from the new conference also plays a critical role in recruiting. UC Davis now has the opportunity to showcase its players on a larger stage, which helps in attracting top-tier talent who might have previously considered the program a stepping stone. "It’s an exciting time," Plough said. "We’re going to be able to compete against some of the best teams in the country, and we want recruits to know that UC Davis is the place where they can do more than just play football—they can prove themselves on a national level."
NIL and the Transfer Portal: Navigating the New Landscape
The landscape of college football has shifted dramatically with the introduction of NIL deals and the increasingly influential role of the transfer portal. Coaches like Plough, who are at programs transitioning to a higher level of competition, are tasked with navigating these changes in a way that keeps their program competitive while still adhering to the principles they’ve built their program on.
NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) has introduced a new layer of complexity into recruiting, as players now have the opportunity to earn money through their personal brands. While this is an opportunity for players, it also requires coaches to think strategically about how to position their program to attract talent while maintaining compliance with NCAA rules and guidelines.
For Plough, the balance is about ensuring that NIL deals are not the sole motivators for recruits. "I’m not going to chase NIL money for a recruit, but I also recognize that it’s a part of the game now," he said. "It’s important to be transparent with recruits about how NIL works and to make sure that they understand our program’s values. We’re about developing players both on and off the field. NIL can be an important part of that, but it should never overshadow the bigger picture."
At UC Davis, where resources are often more limited compared to powerhouses, Plough has taken a measured approach to NIL. His strategy revolves around using the platform to enhance the overall experience for players rather than simply offering financial incentives. “We’re looking to create opportunities for our guys to build their brands, but we don’t want that to be the deciding factor,” Plough said. “It’s about finding guys who are committed to the program, to the culture, and to the long-term success of the team. NIL can be part of that, but it can’t be the whole picture.”
Similarly, the transfer portal has transformed the way college programs build rosters, and Plough has had to adapt. The portal has made it easier for players to leave their current programs and find new opportunities, but it also means that programs like UC Davis have to be proactive in recruiting players who may be looking to transfer from other programs.
"I don’t shy away from the transfer portal. If there’s a player out there who can help us and fits into what we’re trying to build, we’re going to pursue them," Plough said. "But we don’t just want to bring in someone because they’re a quick fix. We’re looking for players who can contribute to the culture and who are going to be team-first guys."
Plough’s philosophy is that while the transfer portal can be a valuable tool for filling immediate needs, it should not replace the core principles of building a program through high school recruits and player development. "We’re still focused on long-term growth. If we have the opportunity to bring in an impact transfer, that’s great—but we don’t want to lose sight of the guys we’ve recruited and developed," he explained. "The portal can complement our program, but it’s not the foundation."
What This Means for UC Davis
Plough’s decisions, from navigating the shift to FBS and a new conference to his measured approach to NIL and the transfer portal, are positioning UC Davis for success in the coming years. The program is poised to continue its rise, and with Plough at the helm, UC Davis is now seen as a program that can compete with some of the best in the country.
“This is a transformative time for UC Davis,” Plough said. “We’re moving into a new conference with fresh challenges, but also with new opportunities. It’s a chance for us to show what UC Davis is capable of. We want to recruit players who not only want to be a part of this new era but who also want to be a part of building something special.”
For Plough, the future of UC Davis football is about more than just winning games—it’s about establishing a lasting legacy. "We ’re not just trying to compete at a higher level," he said. "We’re trying to build a program that can sustain success for years to come. That’s what recruiting is all about. Finding the right players, developing them, and creating something that will last."
In the face of all these changes, Plough’s recruiting philosophy remains grounded in a commitment to developing well-rounded players, fostering a winning culture, and building long-term success. His ability to balance tradition with innovation is shaping UC Davis into a program that’s not just keeping pace with the modern college football landscape but is poised to lead the way.
At each position, he looks for specific traits that will not only make a player successful but also align with his program’s goals. Understanding the intricacies of film evaluation is a key component of how Plough recruits, and his attention to detail during the film breakdown process is what allows him to uncover potential that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Breaking Down Film: The Process of Identifying Talent
Plough’s film evaluation process is systematic and highly detailed. He’s looking for players who not only have the physical tools to succeed but also the mental and emotional traits that fit into his culture. "I want to see a player’s ability to process the game at a high level," he said. "The best athletes can adjust to what’s happening on the field in real-time. The film gives me that window into their mindset."
He also emphasizes the importance of evaluating players' potential for development. "I’m always looking for traits that tell me they can grow," Plough noted. "It’s not about what they are right now, but what they can become. Are they coachable? Are they willing to put in the work? The film should tell me whether a player has the foundation to develop into something special."
What Plough Looks for in Different Positions
Each position requires a slightly different set of traits and skills, and Plough is keenly aware of this as he evaluates film. Let’s break down what he looks for at each key position on the field.
Quarterback: The Brain of the Offense
When evaluating quarterbacks, Plough’s philosophy centers on decision-making, intelligence, and leadership. "The quarterback has to be able to process what’s happening on the field quickly. That means reading defenses, recognizing blitzes, and knowing where to go with the ball without hesitation," Plough explained. "What I look for on film is how quickly they can identify coverage schemes and how they adjust their play accordingly."
He’s especially focused on how quarterbacks perform under pressure. "How do they handle a collapsing pocket? Are they looking downfield or panicking? A great quarterback knows how to keep their eyes up while evading pressure and still make the right read."
Beyond mechanics, Plough also looks for leadership traits in quarterbacks. "You can see a lot of their leadership in how they interact with teammates on the field. Do they remain calm in tough situations? Are they willing to step up when things go wrong? I want a guy who’s not afraid to lead the offense," he said.
What he looks for on film:
Ability to read defenses and recognize coverages
Poise and decision-making under pressure
Mechanics, footwork, and delivery consistency
Leadership and communication skills
Wide Receiver: Speed, Versatility, and Catching Ability
For wide receivers, Plough focuses on a blend of speed, route-running precision, and the ability to make plays in multiple areas of the field. "We run a fast-paced offense, and our receivers need to be versatile. I want to see guys who can run multiple routes effectively—slants, fades, comebacks, posts. They have to be able to stretch the field vertically and horizontally," Plough explained.
He’s also looking for a receiver’s ability to track the ball in the air. "A receiver’s ability to adjust to the ball in flight is crucial, especially in our system. I look for players who can catch with their hands, not their body, and track the ball without losing focus," he added.
Plough values a receiver who can do more than just catch the ball. "A great receiver is one who can break tackles and gain extra yards after the catch. I look at their agility and physicality after the catch to determine if they can create explosive plays."
What he looks for on film:
Speed and ability to separate from defenders
Route-running proficiency and understanding of route trees
Hand-catching ability and ball tracking
Ability to break tackles and gain yards after the catch
Running Back: Vision, Agility, and Durability
When breaking down film of running backs, Plough focuses on vision and patience. "I want a running back who has excellent vision. Can they see the hole developing? Are they patient enough to wait for it to open up, or are they too quick to rush their decision?" he said.
Agility and quickness are also high on Plough’s checklist. "A great running back needs to be able to make defenders miss in the open field. I look for lateral quickness and the ability to change direction without losing speed."
Durability and toughness are also key factors. "How do they run between the tackles? Are they tough enough to take hits and keep moving forward?" Plough explained. "I want to see that they can carry the load, especially in a system that demands a lot from the running backs."
What he looks for on film:
Vision and patience to read blocking schemes
Quickness, lateral agility, and burst
Toughness and durability in contact situations
Ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact
Offensive Line: Strength, Technique, and Mental Toughness
For offensive linemen, Plough’s focus is on both strength and technique. "I want to see how well they use their hands and feet in pass protection, and how they generate power in the run game. Are they balanced in their stance? Do they keep their hands inside on their blocks?" he said.
He’s also evaluating mental toughness. "Offensive linemen have to be nasty. How do they respond to adversity on film? Do they keep fighting through the whistle? I want guys who will fight until the play is over," Plough noted.
In the modern era of fast-paced offenses, linemen also need to be agile. "In our system, offensive linemen need to move quickly to execute the schemes, so I look for players who can pull and move laterally without losing their fundamentals."
What he looks for on film:
Hand placement, footwork, and blocking technique
Physicality and mental toughness
Ability to pull and move laterally in space
Consistency in maintaining balance in the run and pass game
Defensive Players: Agility, Instincts, and Football IQ
On defense, Plough focuses on how well a player reads the play and reacts. "I want defenders who can diagnose plays quickly. Whether it’s a linebacker reading the quarterback or a cornerback diagnosing a route, the best defenders are always a step ahead of the offense," he said.
He’s also looking for players with the physical tools to make plays. "Can they shed blocks? Can they close space quickly? Whether it’s a linebacker, cornerback, or defensive lineman, I want to see how quickly they can read and react," Plough explained. "Mental and physical quickness go hand-in-hand."
Mental toughness is another aspect Plough values. "Do they play with passion? Are they relentless in pursuit? You can see a lot of that on film. Great defenders don’t stop until the whistle blows."
What he looks for on film:
Ability to diagnose plays and read the offense
Physicality and toughness in contested situations
Football IQ and awareness of game situations
Relentlessness in pursuit and closing speed
A Holistic Approach: What Plough Values in Film Evaluation
Throughout his film evaluations, Plough isn’t just watching for physical attributes—he’s also focused on the mental aspects of the game. "I can teach technique and refine skills," he said, "but the mental game is something a player either has or doesn’t have. The best players understand the game at a deeper level. They’re not just reacting—they’re anticipating."
The key to Plough’s recruiting success lies in his ability to see past the surface level and identify players who have the potential to grow within his system. "Film doesn’t lie," he explained. "It tells me everything I need to know about a player’s potential. I want to see how they approach the game, how they compete, and how they handle adversity. That’s what will tell me if they can succeed in our program."
By breaking down film with such attention to detail, Tim Plough is able to identify the players who will not only contribute immediately but also develop into key assets for the future of UC Davis football. With his systematic approach to evaluation, Plough is building a program that thrives on both talent and development, ensuring long-term success in the ever-evolving world of college football.
