- It is a “stretch-the-field-vertically” offense, predicated on the complementary effects of throwing deep and running the football.
- The receivers often run intermediate-to-long routes.
- The QB takes more 5- and 7-step drops.
- It emphasizes maximum pass protection, to protect the QB until the receivers get open down field.
- It is committed to the power running game. The running game opens up opportunities for big down field completions.
What are the personnel requirements for the Coryell offense:
- QBs must be able to throw deep with accuracy. They are typically pocket passers with big arms.
- WRs must be able to stretch the field. The name of the game is speed and separation.
- RBs carry a heavy load and tend to have good power.
- TEs tend to be strong blockers; they are relied upon heavily in pass protection and in paving the way for RBs in the ground game.
- OL tend to be big and physical.
What are the advantages of the Coryell offense:
Run correctly, it is simply an explosive offense, capable of big plays at any time. It puts opposing defenses in a bind: does the defense defend the deep ball, thereby weakening its run support, or does it defend the run, thereby leaving itself vulnerable to big plays down field.
