Deciding on tempo is the next key component to building an offensive system. Team’s have been successful with methodical use of the play clock or going very fast. You must decide on which will work best with your offensive system.

A few points to consider:

• Do you feel your team is equal or better talent wise to other teams you will face? If so, up tempo may be a good option.
• Do you have good depth on your team? If not, it may be wise to slow the game down.
• Do you plan to be very multiple in your formations/shifts or simple? If multiple, it will be difficult to also be up tempo.
• If you choose to not be up tempo – how will you handle the 2-minute drill?
• If you choose to be up-tempo – how will you handle late game situations when you need to drain the clock?

After making this decision, you must come up with a plan to get the plays into the offense. Signals, armbands, huddle are all options.