Ready for the West Coast?
 

So with the upcoming West Coast Offense, there's been a lot of talk about how will Campbell will adjust to playing in that system.

But I don't think that's the biggest issue really. I think where we need to be concerned is at the WR position. Our top two guys-Moss and El-seem ill prepared to be elite receivers in the WCO. Granted, they're tough and quick and have shown they can go over the middle? But on a regular basis?

I love Moss and would hate to see him go, but will he be wasted here in DC now? Will Anthony Mix suddenly become indespensible? Does Malcolm Kelly become a draft priority? Will Robin escape the clutches of The Penguin? Can Batman Save Gotham? Tune in tomorrow....

Seriously though, vote

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

This goes back to what I was saying in another thread, and that's the assumption that smaller receivers are any less effective in the WCO than another system. To me, that doesn't make a lick of sense. Smaller receivers have every bit as good of a chance to succeed in the WCO as bigger receivers.

The bigger issue at stake with Moss is whether or not he can hold his own as a starting NFL receiver anymore. I could care less whether or not we think he's too small for a philosophy change.

I don't think I can vote for any of these answers since our runners will actually adapte better to a system that relies on them less than they did to the prior one.

Put on the spot though, I have to wonder how Portis and Betts will do as receivers. Not that they can't, just that they didn't do any of it in the last two years.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[QUOTE=SmootSmack;415027] Will Robin escape the clutches of The Penguin? Can Batman Save Gotham? Tune in tomorrow....

Seriously though, vote[/QUOTE]

F'ING HILARIOUS!!!

I say Campbell...quick reads is the name of the game in that offense, and I think that's one of his biggest weaknesses right now....with that said, I think he will pick it up and possibly thrive in a west coast sorta offense. The person with the least problem with it....Cooley....aka Mr. Solid.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[quote=GTripp0012;415028]This goes back to what I was saying in another thread, and that's the assumption that smaller receivers are any less effective in the WCO than another system. To me, that doesn't make a lick of sense. Smaller receivers have every bit as good of a chance to succeed in the WCO as bigger receivers.

The bigger issue at stake with Moss is whether or not he can hold his own as a starting NFL receiver anymore. I could care less whether or not we think he's too small for a philosophy change.

I don't think I can vote for any of these answers since our runners will actually adapte better to a system that relies on them less than they did to the prior one.

Put on the spot though, I have to wonder how Portis and Betts will do as receivers. Not that they can't, just that they didn't do any of it in the last two years.[/quote]

Portis had 47 catches this year and Betts had 53 in 2006.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

my biggest concern, is campbell, but we'll see. I am also concerned with the wideout positions, though. I don't really think we're set there, no matter what system we're running. Moss was very inconsistent last year and I think he's shown he's a stellar #2, as well as ARE. Lloyd sucks. Caldwell was pretty clutch and can handle the offense, as shown in NE, but who knows if we'll re-sign him.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

Don't think we're going to see a big difference in the Offense. Most NFL offenses are heavily dictated by personel.

Not going to be a "West Coast" offense like san Fran in the days. This is going to be a verticle attacking pass happy version. More run and shoot type of style.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

so, are we gonna be looking at a more pass oriented offense ? that would be good,there is definately more passing in todays game then in gibbs first go around. i don't think gibbs really ever adapted to that change in his 2nd stint. i hope, whoever is the new coach, has a more liberal attitude towards passing the ball.
if thats the case, then i'd say the o-line may have the hardest time adjusting.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[QUOTE=wolfeskins;415051]so, are we gonna be looking at a more pass oriented offense ? that would be good,there is definately more passing in todays game then in gibbs first go around. i don't think gibbs really ever adapted to that change in his 2nd stint. i hope, whoever is the new coach, has a more liberal attitude towards passing the ball.
if thats the case, then i'd say the o-line may have the hardest time adjusting.[/QUOTE]

Yeah I agree with that.

Think we're in store for some big plays in the air and we may need to look at another top wide out instead of CB or DE with our 1st round pick......

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[quote=QBall;415053]Yeah I agree with that.

Think we're in store for some big plays in the air and we may need to look at another top wide out instead of CB or DE with our 1st round pick......[/quote]

maybe a wr but they definately still need some defensive help.

you know, with gibbs, saunders and williams gone, i wonder whats going to happen with Lloyd. the new staff could possibly keep him.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

I think Campbell will do fine in the WCO he's actually ran it before I think it was offense #3?...lol I'm more concerned about the wideouts...they are a little undersized and had alot of probems dropping balls last year...the WCO needs big receivers that can hang onto the ball and are hard to bring down after the catch.

Re: 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.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

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...

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

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.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

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.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

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.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

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.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[QUOTE=GTripp0012;415028]Put on the spot though, I have to wonder how Portis and Betts will do as receivers.[/QUOTE]

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?

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

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.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

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!

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

Just heard that Mariucci will interview for job.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[quote=T.O.Killa;415097]Just heard that Mariucci will interview for job.[/quote]

Yup there's another thread that says he interviews tomorrow.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[QUOTE=skinsguy;415096]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![/QUOTE]


They are both good receivers out of the backfield. I think it was Matty who made mention of the fact Portis had 47 receptions past season, and Betts had 53 in 2006. That portion of the WCO should be in good hands.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[QUOTE=wolfeskins;415051]so, are we gonna be looking at a more pass oriented offense ? that would be good,there is definately more passing in todays game then in gibbs first go around. i don't think gibbs really ever adapted to that change in his 2nd stint. i hope, whoever is the new coach, has a more liberal attitude towards passing the ball.
if thats the case, then i'd say the o-line may have the hardest time adjusting.[/QUOTE]

well said and i say offensive line as well.and throw in the the whole offense/wr....

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

Mix will be a breakout player him and jason are best friends and are planning on working with zorn in the offseason. im excited.


please no fassel though :(

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[URL="http://blog.washingtonpost.com/redskinsinsider/2008/01/a_new_era.html"]A New Era - Redskins Insider[/URL]

From JLC:

"These are opposite systems," said one former coach who worked in both systems during his coaching career. "Coryell is a number-based system, there are different principles. The West Cast offense is all word-based, it's terminology. It's all word-based now. Campbell's learning another new language, and this can be a long process. It's all rote memorization."


In reality, the Redskins have already set Campbell's development back, as he was making good strides in his former system. We're talking major, major change. (JC's best year at Auburn came under West Coast OC Al Borges, but the precision and quickness required to execute this in the NFL will be one of the major subplots to the OTAs and mini camps).


"The West Coast offense is a short, quick, very accurate passing game," the NFL exec said. "Coryell is a vertical, deep game. Campbell has a long delivery. He's a longer type guy (6-5) and when you think of the QBs that are most successful in the West Coast offense, you think more of guys who are 6-2, scramblers like McNabb, Garcia, Young. Quick-footed guys. Campbell's long, he can run but he's not really a scrambler. Whereas Gibbs/Coryell is a vertical, stretch, pocket-passing game. Their franchise quarterback is at risk, my friend."

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

mix and campbell went to auburn together

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[quote=T.O.Killa;415097]Just heard that Mariucci will interview for job.[/quote]


Where did you hear that?

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

FYI. Those who would like an overall quick look at a West Coast Offense can click [URL="http://www.coachsoffice.com/pdfs/WestCoastOffense.pdf"]here[/URL]. I definitely think someone like Clinton Portis will do fine in the WCO.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

Doesn't Mike Shanahan run the WCO? If he does, then Portis should do really well.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[quote=Redskins_P;415108]Where did you hear that?[/quote]

Maybe on the thread that says he's interviewing for a job on Wednesday :D

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[quote=DynamiteRave;415112]Maybe on the thread that says he's interviewing for a job on Wednesday :D[/quote]

LOL, thanks DR. I just noticed the thread title. My bad. :Smoker:

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[QUOTE=skinsguy;415109]FYI. Those who would like an overall quick look at a West Coast Offense can click [URL="http://www.coachsoffice.com/pdfs/WestCoastOffense.pdf"]here[/URL]. I definitely think someone like Clinton Portis will do fine in the WCO.[/QUOTE]

I am going to move this to the third page in case someone wanted to download the PDF on the West Coast offense.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[quote=Mattyk72;415030]Portis had 47 catches this year and Betts had 53 in 2006.[/quote]Thats about 3 times as much as I would have thought.

Meh. Looks like a smooth "transition" all around.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[quote=RedZone;415086]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?[/quote]Probably a lot better. Fewer carries to waste and depending how the D plays us, the big 10+ yard runs could even return.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[QUOTE=QBall;415053]Yeah I agree with that.

Think we're in store for some big plays in the air and we may need to look at another top wide out instead of CB or DE with our 1st round pick......[/QUOTE]

I would rather sign a WR out of free agency. With the rare exception WR's take a few years to develop... by then who knows what we'll be running on offense

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

You know who else had his best year in a West Coast offense...Brandon Lloyd :)

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[quote=SmootSmack;415140]You know who else had his best year in a West Coast offense...Brandon Lloyd :)[/quote]

If there was a way to restructure a contract so a player could pay the team to play, then I'm all for inviting him to training camp.

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[quote=SmootSmack;415140]You know who else had his best year in a West Coast offense...Brandon Lloyd :)[/quote]In high school?

Seriously Smooty, hook me up with some of those sources. :D

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

[QUOTE=GTripp0012;415149]In high school?

Seriously Smooty, hook me up with some of those sources. :D[/QUOTE]

Well, the WCO under San Fran right?

Re: Ready for the West Coast?
 

I'm sure at some point in time there will be a presser to formally introduce Jim Zorn, and hopefully at that time he will enlighten us to some extent, as to just what type offense he intends to implement. We all seem to be under the asumption it going to be the WCO as we know it.

I want to believe that he's going to implement a system that best fits the talents of Jason Campbell. I also want to think that this is something that was discussed during the interview sessions. I remember watching Zorn play, and he could be a mad bomber at times, so it could be that the offense he chooses to introduce may not be limited to the conventional version of the WCO.