Pistol Offense
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The Pistol Offense is an American Football Offensive strategy and formation. While it has been experimented with by dozens of Football Bowl Subdivision teams like LSU, Syracuse,and University of Missouri it is used mostly by the Nevada Wolf Pack. It was created by longtime and current day head coach Chris Ault. It is a hybrid of the traditional shotgun and singleback offenses. The quarterback lines up three yards behind the center, and the running back lines up four yards directly behind the QB. Three wide receiver formations are common but not essential. Multiple tight ends sets combined with a fullback for protection are equally effective. The backfield exchange occurs 2-3 yards closer than in the shotgun; it makes runs more effective than the traditional shotgun, while keeping its pass efficiency. It works well with dual threat quarterbacks who can throw and run. The versatility of the formation can be utilized in a variety of ways. Because the quarterback is closer, he can see over the line and make downfield reads. He will also get the ball snapped to him faster, which can alter timing patterns greatly for a preparing defense. It can effectively use draw plays, counters, and options. Despite its unconventional and unorthodox appearance, it should be considered when listing the more explosive offenses in college football.
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- The Pistol Offense is used by Nevada in NCAA 07.
- Chris Ault credits the inspiration for his invention to the 1997 Nebraska Cornhuskers performance at the Fiesta Bowl, where they ran the option from a spread offense
- The following teams have used some aspect of the Pistol offense in 2007: LSU, Hawaii, Syracuse, New England Patriots
