Braxton Gregory
Staff Writer
Idaho State’s new run-and-shoot offense, introduced by Head Coach Cody Hawkins, has transformed the Bengals into a fast-paced, high-scoring team. The pass-heavy approach has breathed new life into the program, gaining attention from fans and opponents alike.
The run-and-shoot offense isn’t a new concept. It originated in the 1960s, developed by Glenn “Tiger” Ellison and later popularized by Mouse Davis with the Detroit Lions. This system is known for its four-receiver sets and option routes, which allow quarterbacks to adjust plays based on defensive alignments. The scheme prioritizes speed and versatility, often leading to explosive plays downfield.
Hawkins, who took the helm at Idaho State last season, has a deep appreciation for the flexibility and adaptability of this offense. He credits his father, Dan Hawkins, as his greatest influence as a coach, but he also drew significant inspiration from June Jones’ success at the University of Hawaii. “When I was growing up in Boise while my dad was coaching the Broncos, June Jones went to the University of Hawaii and installed the run-and-shoot to great success,” Hawkins said. “They were a program that had struggled, and their four-wide offense and unique schemes created a style of play that Islanders grew to love. It was hard to stop and dynamic to watch.”
This fascination with the run-and-shoot stuck with Hawkins throughout his coaching journey. He credited Tim Ornelas, the video coordinator at UC Davis, for helping him dive deeper into the system. “When I was just an underling assistant at UC Davis, Tim helped me gather all of the old Hawaii tapes,” Hawkins said. “I studied a lot of it on my own and reached out to coaches in the profession with a variety of questions.”
The run-and-shoot’s flexibility is a key reason Hawkins brought it to Idaho State. “The greatest advantage to the run-and-shoot is the ability to have concepts that adapt to the defenses we see every week,” Hawkins said. “Our playbook is based on leverage, coverage, and other principles that allow our players to attack at a moment’s notice.” He likened its adaptability to basketball’s pick-and-roll, where every defensive counter has an offensive response.
Since implementing the run-and-shoot, the Bengals have seen a noticeable uptick in offensive production, which has translated to renewed excitement among students and fans. Nathan Hayes, an Idaho State student, praised the offensive scheme for its high-scoring potential. “Well, I like our ability to score,” Hayes said. “The offensive approach can be exciting, especially when everything is clicking.” Hayes also noted that while the offense has its limitations, particularly in its reliance on the passing game, it’s helped attract top-tier quarterbacks and wide receivers to the program.
Longtime fan Easton Colvin echoed the sentiment, expressing his enthusiasm for the Bengals’ new approach. “Football has become a majority of passing schemes, and to see Idaho State move with that is enjoyable,” Colvin said. “The big plays feel bigger on a pass versus a run play. The most exciting part of watching the Bengals this year is the teamwork, hustle, and heart this team has compared to years past.”
Colvin also highlighted the positive atmosphere inside the ICCU Dome this season, pointing to a noticeable increase in fan engagement and optimism. “There’s more optimism now than in years like 2022,” Colvin said. “People enjoy the deep passing touchdowns and big plays. The increase in skill level at wide receiver and quarterback, along with hometown or in-state players, has definitely helped get more people out to watch.”
For Hawkins, the run-and-shoot system isn’t just about putting up points; it’s about building a team that’s fun to watch and competitive in every game. “I think what we are doing here suits us for this stage of our program’s development,” Hawkins said.
As the Bengals continue to adjust to their new offensive philosophy, fans remain hopeful that the run-and-shoot will lead to more wins and a potential playoff push. The Throwin’ Idahoans are determined to make their mark, and so far, the results have been promising.
