This issue of GS includes an in-depth article on the Run ‘N Shoot offense. First conceived by former Middletown High School (OH) Coach Glenn ‘Tiger’ Ellison, it was then refined by former Portland State Coach Darell “Mouse” Davis. This offense emphasizes receiver motion both to create mismatches with the defense but also to help reveal what coverage a defense is using. The Run ‘N Shoot adjusts “on the fly” as the receivers are free to change their routes in response to the defensive scheme.
While extremely popular in the 80’s and 90’s, many high schools and colleges still run this offense. In the late 1980’s, under Head Coach John Jenkins, the University of Houston ran the Run ‘N Shoot with much success. 1989 Heisman Trophy winner Andre Ware set 26 NCAA records using this offense. June Jones, a disciple of the Run ‘N Shoot, used it at the University of Hawaii and now runs it at SMU. While at Hawaii, quarterback Colt Brennan set the NCAA single season passing record with 58 touchdowns and led the Rainbow Warriors to a BCS bowl game.
The article, “Breaking Down the Choice Routes in the Run ‘N Shoot Offense”, was written by Coach Wayne Anderson, a frequent contributor to both American Football Monthly and Gridiron Strategies. Coach Anderson recently ran this offense while “Mouse” Davis served a consultant to his team. Anderson has coached in Finland, Italy, Denmark and Poland.
In addition to a number of offense, defense, and special teams articles, this issue of GS continues with another “Point-Counterpoint” topic – Getting the Ball to Your Playmaker vs. Taking Away Your Biggest Offensive Weapon.
We hope you enjoy the entire issue. As always, we welcome your feedback.
Sincerely,
Rex Lardner
Managing Editor