Air Raid Offense Series: History and fundamentals

Football schemes are a game of create, copy and adapt. From the option wishbone, wildcat, and spread offenses, the sport has been shaped by innovators. This concept is as prevalent for the air raid offense as any other offensive scheme. The brainchild of Hal Mumme, the air raid offense utilizes a pass-first mentality, completely different than its predecessors.

Hal Mumme served as the offensive coordinator at UTEP in the early 80’s. After four unsuccessful seasons the coaching staff was fired, and Mumme found himself as the head coach of Copperas Cove high school in Texas.

At the time, most offenses were running ground and pound football — line players up and run the ball, smashing into each…