After all, isn't that why we’re here on this board? ;)

Okay, so we know that Coach Willingham and Coach Diedrick are bringing in a version of the infamous "West Coast Offense". A system so well known that even its name is a source of controversy and has been prone to send some UHND posters into rabid convulsions.

Intrigued by this phenomenon, I decided to do some investigating.

In my travels and studies I've now learned a LOT about this offensive scheme. In fact, enough to literally go out and coach it, though I would probably only have access to a Pop Warner team, so it's a moot point. ;)

Anyway, after reading up on the "West Coast Offense" I have concluded that there is a reason why it's been around so long and has been used or slightly modified in many programs: IT'S EFFECTIVE. And, best yet... if executed properly, it works against almost any defensive scheme!

Many people hear the term "West Coast" offense and immediately imagine Notre Dame will be throwing the ball 70 times every game for 500 yards with little room for a running game. WRONG. While the passing game is what drives this system (no pun intended) the entire point is to create the ultimate VERSATILE offense. An offense that throws or runs whenever it wants. "Complete command of the field" is what Coach Willingham calls it... and he's 100% correct.

Imagine ND being able to call a running play (with full confidence) on 3rd & 6... or, call a slant pattern on 2nd & 1. When was the last time our offense was both innovative and fearsome? Heck, when was the last time we were even balanced and versatile??

I believe this new offensive system that TW and Diedrick are implementing will be VERY effective, especially with the proper athletes in place (that's right, if we land both Stovall and McKnight with a Booker it will be LIGHTS OUT). Of course, the right Quarterback is essential, too. A solid QB is vital and central to successful execution of the WCO.

However, the QB doesn't have to be perfect or a "star" athlete. He only has to be accurate and show poise. Sure, a 6' 4" 200 lb QB with a rocket arm would be great, but what's really important is a QB who makes good reads and doesn't make mistakes. (i.e., Joe Montana... it was Walsh's offensive system, combined with his poise and unprecedented football sense, that turned him into the best QB ever).

In football, offense (and, for that matter, defense) is all about precise TIMING of execution. With the WCO, the timing is even more vital.

Fall Saturdays are about to get very interesting in South Bend.

I'm excited because now I understand COMPLETELY what Willingham and staff have in mind for this offense. If nothing else, we're going to move the ball, score points, and be fun to watch (imagine that). And, yes... there will even be games where we will run for 300+ yards.

Before you fear, mock, or even praise this offense, I suggest you read and study the following books:

"Football's West Coast Offense" by Frank Henderson
"Coaching the Multiple West Coast Offense" by Ron Jenkins

Can you imagine…

What's not to like?