I'm not an expert on play calling but I don't like scripted plays.
In my opinion scripted plays prevent you from taking advantage of what the opponent is giving you at any given moment in the game.
I'm not a fan of going for two in the second quarter, too many thing can happen.
I'm not a fan of taking points off the board. It didn't come back to bite in this game.
I'm not a fan of going for it on 4th down when you have a sure three. In this game the sure three would have guaranteed overtime.
Otherwise I like coach Desormeaux.
I can relate.
Back to Desormeaux, I don't think he does any of the things I mentioned due to being a nice guy.
More like inexperienced and doing things by the book. The book says it's done this way, so we do it this way.
The problem with that approach is the opponent has the book too, so now you are left with out executing and out manning the opponent. Very little to no out thinking involved.
Napier's success was partly due to doing unorthodox things. He won a lot of games like going for it on fourth down, which is not the same as forgoing 3 points in a 3 point contest.
I was hoping by year four Coach D would get past scripted plays, especially when the drive starts with a penalty before the drive starts. That's not in the script, so the script should be thrown out the window after a penalty.
I don't think he does that to be nice.
Geaux Cajuns
The rationale for Scripted Plays: The rationale for scripted offensive plays in NCAA football centers on strategic preparation, game flow control, and exploiting opponent tendencies. Scripted plays, typically the first 10-15 plays of a game or a series, are pre-planned sequences designed to achieve specific objectives:
Establish Rhythm and Momentum: Scripted plays help the offense settle into the game by executing familiar plays, reducing early-game nerves and building player confidence. They create a structured start, allowing the team to find a rhythm without overthinking initial decisions.
Probe Defensive Alignments: These plays are chosen to test how the opposing defense sets up against various formations, motions, or personnel groupings. Coaches use early plays to identify defensive tendencies, such as whether they favor man or zone coverage, blitz frequency, or how they adjust to specific offensive looks.
Set Up Later Plays: Scripts often include plays that set up tendencies to exploit later. For example, running a play-action pass early can set up a run play later by manipulating defensive expectations. This creates opportunities for misdirection or big plays as the game progresses.
Adapt to Game Situations: Scripts are tailored based on film study of the opponent, weather conditions, or game context (e.g., home or away). They allow coaches to anticipate how the defense might respond and prepare counters, ensuring the offense is proactive rather than reactive.
Maximize Efficiency: By planning plays in advance, coaches can ensure a balanced approach (run/pass mix) and avoid predictable patterns. This also helps manage the tempo, whether aiming for a fast-paced or controlled game.
Player Preparation: Players can rehearse scripted plays extensively in practice, increasing execution precision. Knowing the initial sequence reduces in-game decision-making pressure, allowing players to focus on performance.
Coaches like Urban Meyer and Chip Kelly have emphasized scripting to dictate game tempo and gather real-time data on defensive behavior. However, scripts are not rigid; coaches adjust based on in-game observations, making them a blend of preparation and adaptability. This approach is particularly critical in NCAA football, where diverse defensive schemes and limited practice time demand strategic foresight.
…..Great points on all factors……I might add include “trick” plays that can take advantage of scripted defenses to a normal offensive set……the impressive part of the Des, munos, Leger part is that all phases have been gone through with down, distance. Field position, time of game, score, injuries, and more...gotta do the physical cart of block, throw, and catch for any play calling to be successful…..Operation turn aroun starts this week!….Geaux Cajuns!
I am curious, would you abandon the scripted play scheme if you went 3 and out on your first 2 or 3 possessions?
Thanks for the explanation.
IF a scripted series (designed to get a first down in 10 yards) starts out with a 5 yard penalty before the first snap, what is the rational for getting 10 yards when you need 15?
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