We lost one of the true innovators in the game yesterday when Don Coryell passed away at the age of 85. Coryell was known for his efficient and effective passing game, first with the 70's St Louis Cardinals and, more famously, with the "Air Coryell" San Diego Charger teams from the early 80's. He was one of the first coaches to recognize the matchup problems an offense can create by consistently splitting the tight end wide and using the size advantage to both control the ball through the air and take chances down the field. His Charger teams were a joy to watch, and, although he never won anything beyond a division crown, he helped to progress the game to the modern passing free-for-all we see today. For better or worse.
Coryell never had a defense good enough to advance to a Super Bowl or win a title, but he'll get another chance in my NFL history replay. Perhaps whatifsports will be kinder than history was for him.
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