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Specific offensive strategies

There are several offensive strategies that have evolved over the years, especially after the NFL outlawed most downfield contact on receivers (that is, past the 5 yard “chuck” zone, where most contact is allowed). Thus, recent strategies attempt to utilize the passing game to open up the defense, as it is less predictable and carries the possibility for greater gain.

The “West Coast” offense was designed by Bill Walsh during his coaching days at Stanford and applied successfully to the San Francisco 49ers during the 1980’s, resulting in three Super Bowl wins. The West Coast Offense is characterized by short high-percentage-completion passes such as screens, flares, and quick slants. It depends on an accurate, quick-thinking quarterback and excellent timing between him and his receivers. Teams that utilize this offense in the NFL typically have coaches that were Bill Walsh (or Mike Holmgren) disciples. The Green Bay Packers, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Detroit Lions, Seattle Seahawks, and the Philadelphia Eagles use the West Coast offense.

The “Run and Gun” offense relies heavily on the deep or “vertical” passing game. It features a quarterback with an excellent arm and a bevy of fast wide receivers that can stretch the defensive alignment vertically. This offensive scheme also demands excellent pass blocking from its offensive lineman. Although running the football is still somewhat common, unlike in other schemes the “pass sets up the run.” Run and gun offenses use halfback draws and halfback delays to keep the defense from pass rushing and keeping 5 or 6 defensive backs in the game every down. Teams that use this offense are the Indianapolis Colts and the St. Louis Rams.

The “Power Football” (colloquially, “Smashmouth Football”) offense is a traditional scheme referred to as “three yards and a cloud of dust.” It depends heavily on large, powerful running backs running straight ahead and gaining yards after contact (YAC). This offense uses “the run to set up the pass” via play-action. This offense is very patient and is most effective when matched with a dominating defense that keeps the opponent from scoring. Power Football allows the team to control the ball for longer periods of time, denying the opposing offense time with the ball. Few teams use this offense; in recent years only the Baltimore Ravens and the Pittsburgh Steelers are true Power Football teams.