Running Clemson's Air Raid in College Football 26
Understanding the Air Raid Philosophy
The Air Raid offense is all about spreading the field, forcing the defense to cover every blade of grass, and exploiting mismatches. Clemson's version of the Air Raid mixes classic spread principles with modern wrinkles, making it adaptable to different situations. Instead of pounding the ball on the ground, the goal is to use short, quick passes to control the clock and open up big-play opportunities.
This style rewards quarterbacks with good accuracy, wide receivers with sharp route-running skills, and a fast tempo to wear out defenders. It also requires you to read defenses quickly — if you hesitate, pressure will shut down your play before it develops.
Formations You'll Use Most
Clemson's Air Raid playbook features multiple shotgun and spread formations. The most important include:
Shotgun Trips Open – Perfect for three-receiver route combinations that confuse defensive backs.
Shotgun Spread Y-Flex – A versatile set that allows you to isolate your best receiver in one-on-one coverage.
Shotgun Empty Quads – Spreads the defense thin, leaving space for quick slants or QB scrambles.
Pistol Spread – Keeps the running game viable while maintaining a passing threat.
These formations are designed to keep defenses from stacking the box while letting you attack through quick reads.
Key Passing Concepts in the Clemson Air Raid
Four Verticals – A core Air Raid concept. Sends multiple receivers deep, stretching the safeties and creating openings for big plays. Best used against Cover 3 or Cover 4 defenses.
Mesh – Routes cross underneath to create natural picks and free up receivers. This is especially effective against man coverage.
Stick – A short-yardage play that uses a quick hitch route to the tight end or slot receiver. Great for moving the chains on 3rd and short.
Shallow Cross – One receiver runs a deep dig while another runs an underneath drag, creating a high-low read for the quarterback.
Wheel Routes – Often used from the backfield, these routes catch linebackers off guard for explosive gains.
Balancing with the Run Game
While the Air Raid is pass-heavy, Clemson's playbook includes zone reads, draws, and RPOs (Run-Pass Options) to keep defenses honest. Plays like Inside Zone and Read Option are crucial when defenders start dropping into deep coverage. Even a modest running threat can open space for your receivers.
Tips for Success
Tempo is Key – Don't give defenses time to substitute. Use the no-huddle to keep momentum and wear down opponents.
Read Pre-Snap – Identify coverage before the snap so you know where your first read will be.
Use Motion – Motioning receivers can reveal man or zone coverage and create mismatches.
Protect Your QB – Keep an eye on blitz packages. If you see pressure coming, audible to quick slants or screens.
Mix It Up – Even in a pass-first offense, mixing in runs will prevent defenders from sitting in deep zones.
Defending Against Counters
Defenses will adjust by playing tighter coverage or blitzing more often. If blitz pressure is heavy, counter with quick passes, bubble screens, and shallow crossers. Against tight coverage, look for double moves or deep shots to exploit aggressive defenders.
The Clemson Air Raid playbook in cheap CFB 26 Coins is one of the most exciting offensive systems available. When executed correctly, it delivers a relentless aerial attack that can put up huge numbers against any defense. Success depends on quick decision-making, disciplined route timing, and keeping opponents guessing with the occasional run or trick play.
Whether you're an online competitor or dominating a Dynasty Mode season, mastering this playbook can turn your team into a scoring powerhouse. Once you get comfortable with Clemson's Air Raid, you'll not only move the chains — you'll break scoreboards.