It's Not Just A Run Of Luck

"What about that Split P, Double Feedback Formation?"

"Formations don't win games, people win games. The left tackle gained 240 yards on laterals because of God-given running ability. You can't coach that."

"Was it an accident that the referee got blocked out on every play?"

"I can't tell until I see the game films."

There is much truth to the cliché about game films. Much of what goes on escapes the naked eye. The trouble is that coaches usually don't try to explain all the terrific stuff they do until they have stopped winning and have been fired. Or until they write books.

Before he went to the pros, John McKay (USC coach, 1960-75) wrote a book in which he tried to confess everything. McKay, A Coach's Story (written with USC Sports Information Director Jim Perry) was not a bestseller. And strategists looking for a by-the-numbers guide-to Top 20 ranking found most of the classified stuff McKay revealed about the evolution of the USC Tailback was buried under the weight of his persimmon personality and bristling wit. At post-game interviews, he can be as unrevealing as any coach, only funnier.

"What special plays did you put in for O.J., Coach?"

"Two. I nod right, O.J. runs right. I nod left, O.J. runs left."

"Yes, but he ran 38 times."

"Why shouldn't he? The ball isn't very heavy. And besides, he doesn't belong to any union."