You are correct that Bob Stitt is the mastermind behind that offense but Chip Kelly was the first to utilize it at a national level and Kelly took the offense a step further. He's a big believer is the science and medical part of sports, which is why he started practicing early in the morning. He found that bodies operate at a higher level during the early hours than in the afternoon hours. Additionally, he assigned his players with position specific diets. Some of it is a little OCD but that's his gig and he makes it work. Not only is that offense being used at every level in the game, but Kelly's general approach to the sport has been studied by guys such as Bill Belichick.
I guess there are two reasons behind why I went on that rant during the show. One, I'm observing the scene at Michigan currently and I can't say that I have hope for their future. For starters, I believe the dynamics of recruiting have changed and that southern and western schools are more favored among high school kids. Secondly, I'm all for being patient, but this season's recruiting is going to take a major hit if they don't hire someone soon. What I've heard from many Michigan fans is that they all want Harbaugh. While I do believe that Harbaugh is one of the smartest coaches on the planet, I don't think Michigan has a shot at landing him. And above that, the main reason many Michigan fans want Harbaugh is because he's a "Michigan man."
The second reason that I went on this rant is that my school, Liberty University, is likely going to fire the mens basketball head coach at the end of the season. He's in his seventh year and the team's RPI is currently, next to last in D1. Our school's tendency when hiring coaches has been to hire "big names." We hired Turner Gill, former Nebraska QB for football. We hired Dot Richardson, former USA olympian for our softball team. Our current basketball coach came over from Colorado. And I just feel that our philosophy is so easy and safe. We hire big names because it makes us feel comfortable.
But what if Michigan football took a risk on a guy who is doing something different? There is a HS coach in Arkansas who doesn't punt. He goes for it on fourth down every single play. It sounds stupid but his team competes for the state championship every season. I'm not saying Michigan should hire the HS coach from Arkansas. But why not forgo all of this "big name" hires and all of this "Michigan man" hires and hire someone who takes risks? Hire someone who's edgy and makes you feel uncomfortable.
For us, it's easy to just find a formation that other guys have had success with and hope it works out. It's safe because someone else has made it work. And there is no problem with following the success of someone else, in fact, that's a great way to learn. However, I also have a vast appreciation for creativity and guys who are willing to risk everything, and venture to unchartered territories.
This wasn't meant to be a jab at anyone by the way. I think there are some fine coaches out there and I think everyone should learn from the more experienced guys. My rant just happened to me a thought that's been floating around for a while. Mostly, that's what intrigued me to start a radio show, the idea that I could throw thoughts out there on a public forum and have a voice.