WSU's 'Air Raid' opens up Pac-12 play against California and the 'Bear Raid'

Coach Mike Leach and company have a chance to redeem themselves after handing Cal a win at Martin Stadium last season. In the 60-59 loss, the Cougars and Golden Bears racked up over 1,400 offensive yards. A big part of that is the two men calling the plays.

Cal head coach Sonny Dykes worked under Leach when he installed and developed the "Air Raid" offense at the University of Kentucky in the late 1990's. Today, Dykes has created (with offensive coordinator Tony Franklin) his own version of the high-powered offensive attack called the "Bear Raid."

In the Seattle Times story below, Leach describes the difference between the two offenses as "quick play" vs. "down field," meaning that quarterback Jared Goff executes plays with shorter routes, quicker throws, and more dropbacks, while Luke Falk and Cougs look to deeper looks from the shotgun more frequently. The "Bear Raid" has been a big part of the Cal's early season success, as they have averaged 36.7 points per game.

Leach hopes that this time around he can best his former colleague.

Cougar Football

WSU vs. Cal features ‘Air Raid’ vs. ‘Bear Raid’ on offense | The Seattle Times
California coach Sonny Dykes and WSU coach Mike Leach’s relationship dates to 1997, when Dykes was a graduate assistant at Kentucky under offensive coordinator Leach and head coach Hal Mumme. Both have shaped their offensive philosophies as a result of that connection.

What the WSU Cougars have to do to beat No. 24 Cal | The Seattle Times
WSU needs to fire on all cylinders to beat Cal

Cal offers WSU opportunity for turning-point win - Spokesman.com - Oct. 2, 2015

Know The Enemy: Previewing the Washington State Offense - California Golden Blogs

Do you know Wazzu? Well learn some more here.

Cougar Volleyball

Cougars Rally Late but Fall in Three at No. 2 USC - Washington State University Official Athletic Site
Freshman Claire Martin had six kills and five blocks against No. 2 USC Friday night.

Cougar Men's Basketball

WSU Men’s Basketball Finishes First Practice - Washington State University Official Athletic Site
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Cougar Tennis

Cougars Begin Play at WSU Invitational - Washington State University Official Athletic Site
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Cougar Cross Country

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