Airing out issues of Washington Football passing game

Offensive planning

The Washington Huskies offense has far too many offensive weapons to be neutralized in any single game. Even when the passing game felt stymied, there are ways to respond which not only provides ample quarterback protection, but improves the passing accuracy to get shaken quarterbacks some of the confidence back at crucial moments of the game.

One such course of action is that quick hitch pass. In short, stack receivers to one side, and send a lone fast receiver to the other side.  Fake the pass to the stack side, then pivot and turn to the lone receiver, who by this point and completed a quick hitch.  If he is open, send the ball. If he is covered, go back to the stack group and read through the progressions.

Three tight-end sets

Another area of opportunity lay with the Washington roster. Last season, the team had three tight ends who could catch passes. In a stretch of three games, tight ends accounted for 21 receptions, or 43 percent of the pass receptions.  That ratio dropped considerably after the Arizona State loss. The reason? More tight end staying in to help block after left tackle Adams fell to injury.

What the team did not try very often is three tight end sets, and stunt the blocking tight end to confuse the defense. That is a difficult offensive set to implement mid-season, yes. But once learned, it could pay dividends for the rest of the season. And then, as the offensive line stabilized, turn into a great run pass option formation.