How to Build a Successful High School Offense

What creates a high powered offense?  The first thing that comes to your mind is a great quarterback right.  You probably think of a Peyton Manning type player, who can go to any team and make them great.  Yes, in the pros, great quarterback play (along with enough help) usually leads to highly successful offense.  This isn't necessarily the case for high school football, especially small town high school football. 

If I could build a class 1A offense around one great player, I would take a great running back.  I say this because, what is the easiest thing for 16, 17 and 18 year old kids to do?  Hand the ball off.  There is little to no risk to a hand-off, while many things can go wrong with a pass (interception, sack, drop).  But, even before the running back the most important part to success on offense is a good offensive line.

If you look back at the state championship teams over the past few years, what do they all have in common, a dominating offensive line.  Great athletes also help, but everything in high school football revolves around the success of an o-line.  The best part about the o-line is it can be developed at any program.  With just a few players with naturally good size and the right off-season program, any team can supplement a solid line. The key is get your kids to buy into the program, and regularly attend the weight room at a young age, then you can be successful year after year.  Look at teams like Aplington-Parkersburg or Solon; both do or did contend for a championship for many seasons in a row, not necessarily because of the talent, but because of excellent player development.

Photo taken by Erin Colligan

The key to running the right offense isn't about running the most creative plays, or picking the most unique formations, but it is matching your teams skill-set with the correct scheme.  High School football is unique in the fact that you can't pick your players (other than catholic schools).  In college and pro, you can scout or draft to fit your needs.  In high school you have no control over the players you get, but do control how you use them.

To recap, the keys to offensive success in high school football are an exceptional offensive line, great off-season development, and running the right scheme for your players.  With these few key points, good coaching sense, and, yes, some good athletes, you are well on your way putting some points on the scoreboard.

Photo taken by Lori Van Buren