3 Yards and a Cloud of Dust

While attributed to the great Ohio State coach, “Woody” Hayes (distant kin to our friend James Hayes), for years, Paul “Bear” Bryant’s offense was often described in that same manner: “3 yards and a cloud of dust.” It’s that conservative style of offense, where running is considered safer than passing. The phrase implies persistence, physicality superior dominance over flashy or high-risk plays.

“Three yards and a cloud of dust.” 

That always baffled me since it takes 10 yards to get a first down. And you get four downs which would be twelve yards, but most teams punt if they don’t get a First Down in three plays. So, that’s only nine yards and if the purpose is to be conservative, then you’d punt. So, you’re always having to risk it on fourth down if you only get 3 yards on each of the previous PLAYS. 

Why not get 4 yards? Why not scheme for 4? 

How about it for those of us who preach? We may not score a touchdown every time we stand in the pulpit. Of course, we can if the standard is to simply speak truth, but most of us would admit we aren’t often what folks would call a Homerun hitter. So, as much as we’d like to hit a homer every time we stand up, we can get 4 yards every time. And, if you get four yards every time it may not be flamboyant BUT you’ll keep on scoring over and over and over again. 

So this Sunday, do your best, and get 4 yards! Enjoy it when the homers come, but at least get 4 yards!