Ready for the West Coast?

Boy, this is a really good question.
The skins have NEVER had a west coast system.

I said QB because it is quite a shift in philosophy and campbell is still figuring out how to be a NFL QB...but I can see an offensive line that has a smashmouth mentality having some issues.
Dink and dunk requires a nimble line...we probably need another TE with hands for short yardage situations...Cooley should do well.

I too am concerned about small recievers doing slants for 16 games...they could get hurt.

Right now our two biggest receivers are Billy McMullin at 6-4 and Anthony Mix at 6-5.

I remember McMullin from UVA, Al Groh used a Pro-Style offense there, Mix and Campbell got WCO exposure together at Auburn...

Tough to tell at this point, I went with WR since I think we need an upgrade there regardless of a new system. Moss is just injured too much and even when he was on the field this year he was disappointing with the drops/fumbles.

Obviously JC learning another new system will be an adjustment, but it might be a better fit for him in the end.

I went with O-line. IMO, it really doesn't matter what system you run. You still need good protection to give the QB enough time to go through his progressions and you need a solid running game to keep the defense honest.

I think its pretty obvious that we need more depth at the WR position. I also think that JC will be adjust with no problem. As far as RB's go, we will be fine. I like our depth there.

With maybe just a few exceprions I believe we have in place personell caspable of being able to adaquately execute what we have come to know as the "west coast offense"

The Objective:

Spread the defense out horizontally as well as vertically, forcing slower linebackers into coverage.

Maintain possession of the football by utilizing a short passing attack almost as an extention of the running game

Create mismatches with speed, or number of receivers.

Avoid tendencies that defenses can key on by throwing on any down and distance.

Ideal Player Qualities:

Quarterback - More of a focus is placed on decision-making and accuracy over arm strength in this system. A Quarterback must be able to choose from multiple options and deliver the ball quickly. Mobility is also a big plus.

Running Back - In the west coast offense, running backs are generally used more as receivers out of the backfield than in other systems, so you need a guy with all-around skills. Good hands and route running skills are a must.

Tight End - The Tight End's role is generally that of a possession receiver and blocker. The ability to catch the ball in traffic is a huge plus.

Wide Receiver - Withe the focus on a short passing attack, precision and timing are of the utmost importance, soreceivers have to run precise routes. Straight-line speed isn't as important as the ability to seperate in traffic. And, the ability to make plays after the catch can turn a good receiver into a superstar in this offense.

Offensive Linemen - You're generally not trying to pound the ball the ball on the ground in the West Coast Offense, so guys who can consistently blow defenders off the ball is not necessary. Actually quicker, more mobile linemen are more ideal because of their ability to pull or get outside in a rolling pocket on plays designed to get the Quarterback outside.

This offense is a finesse offense that utilizes a short passing game designed to control the ball.

In most conventional offenses', the idea is to run the ball to draw the safeties and linebackers in closer to the line of scrimmage, thus opening up passing lanes for a vertical attack. The West Coast Offense does just the opposite, using a quick, horizontal passing attack to set up the running game.

Teh West Coast Offense employs a variety of formations and pre-snap motions designed to confuse defenders. It also relys heavily on an ability to flood a defense with more receivers than they can handle. The Quarterback often moves around more than in a conventional offense with designed roll-outs and bootlegs that are tied in with the patterns being run by the receivers.

We do have personell to fit the bill, maybe with the exception being mobility in the offensive line.

I think it's a combination of Campbell and his receivers. I'm not necessarily worried about Campbell's decision making. He's a smart kid and he'll be able to pick up the reads quickly. But, it's more in his slow wind-up throwing motion and the fact that he seemed to throw short passes too high this past year. With taller receivers, it at least allows Campbell a little bit of room for error, but not with Moss and ARE. Campbell is going to have to work on speeding up his release and controlling his short passes better.

Put on the spot though, I have to wonder how Portis and Betts will do as receivers.

Good thoughts. Looking at it the other way though, if the West Coast is effective, how much better will Portis and Betts be in the ground game?

Did everyone forget that Portis came from a WCO type offense? Pretty much that is what Mike S. runs up in Denver. And look at how good he did in that offense. I think that Portis is the least of the worries in this type of offense.

I think the West Coast offense can be a benefit to Clinton Portis and Laddell Betts. Both guys lining up in the backfield at once? This can get very interesting!

Just heard that Mariucci will interview for job.