The latest example of how much people think that what is new to them is actually new is the theme of the latest issue of Sports Illustrated. Besides telling us how the NFL season will go, the topic of conversation is the read offense and the question is, “How do you defend it?”

Let’s take a look at the “newness” of the “read” thing. What do you think Texas Christian University was doing back in the ‘30’s with their single wing attack and the great Sammy Baugh at tailback? What about the University of Southern California Trojans in the early ‘50s with Frank Gifford at tailback in their single wing attack?

What allowed for their success was the athletic ability of the tailback. Back then they were known as triple-threat (run-pass-kick) players. I had the good fortune to see Sammy Baugh and his Washington Redskin teammates practice while attending summer camp at Occidental College. They were there preparing for the annual L.A. Times Rams vs. Redskins game started by Otis Chandler, the owner of the Times and a great athlete at Stanford in his own right.

The rangy Baugh had a ground-eating stride and rifle-arm. I’ve seen him throw a 30 yd. strike while on the run to his favorite receiver, Bones Taylor. A frozen rope, some would say. A true triple-threat, he might be the best punter I have ever seen (no disrespect Ray Guy).

In practice he would stand on the goal line and kick punt after punt inside the 20 yd. line at the other end. And, so high your grandma in her wheelchair could get down the field in time to make the tackle.

High school coaches these days regularly put their best athlete at quarterback. Just like baseball coaches have their best athlete at shortstop. Today’s quarterbacks are bigger, faster and stronger. And, just as in your Sunday touch football game, the toughest decision the “D” has is will he run or will he pass … welcome to being a linebacker/defensive back in the NFL.

Don’t forget to get your copy of Coach Rolland Todd’s book, “The Art of Losing” on lulu.com.