How Do You Run The Football From The West Coast Formation?
The hardcore football fan may be looking at the title of this article and start scratching his head. The West Coast Formations, designed by former San Diego Charger head coach and pro football guru Sid Gillman and refined to perfection by the late 49er coach Bill Walsh, is a high-powered attack designed to light up scoreboard with consistent and accurate passing. While that is true, a team that successfully executes this offense gets the added benefit of being in an outstanding position to run the ball well once the pass has been established. Establish the pass early. In the West Coast offense, the quarterback should be able to deliver the ball to any one of three receivers on short- and medium-range passes. Once this has been done for a drive or two, the defense must respect the pass and should leave open lanes for the running game. Start off with a quick-hitting trap play. Have the offensive tackle block inside on the defensive tackle and have the guard seal off the defensive end. As
