Brennan Marion's "Go-Go" offense set to hit Colorado

Sacramento State head coach Brennan Marion gets vocal at spring practice. (Photo by Paul Kitagaki/SacramentoBee)

Deion Sanders has found his offensive coordinator for quarterback Julian Lewis.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel confirmed that Sacramento State Hornets head coach Brennan Marion would be filling the vacant offensive coordinator role for the Colorado Buffaloes. At just 38 years old, Marion brings a unique scheme he’s developed himself, the “Go-Go” offense. 

Details of the duration and price of the contract have yet to be determined, as the team has not officially announced the signing, but an announcement can come as soon as tomorrow. Marion had spent one year as the head coach, but came with ten years of total experience in college football. 

This past season, his Hornets finished with a 7-5 overall record and went 5-3 against the FCS Big Sky Conference, finishing in fourth. Their offense was statistically impressive, putting up an average of 33.8 points per game, behind Marion’s playcalling. 

Marion has self-described his offense’s installation by three key philosophies. 

Creativity: Using two-running-back looks, the offense puts skill positions in unique places to get the ball in their hands. This could look like a five-man unbalanced set, where there are two running backs and three receivers all lined up to one side of the center. Avoiding predictability and keeping the defense on its toes is the backbone of this offense. 

Toughness: Prioritizing a downhill running style, Marion’s team averaged 262 rushing yards per game. Beating down opponents on the ground then opens the vertical passing threat, where receivers can make their money. Unselfish play is needed as skill positions have to block for the scheme to be successful. Looking at Colorado’s depth at running back, Marion’s style is certainly tailored to the roster. 

Pace: The namesake “Go-Go” is derived from the two-minute, up-tempo pace that completes the scheme. This is where Lewis will be trained to make smart decisions on the fly and keep applying pressure. Every drive will be run like the game is ending, trying to tire the defense. The quickness and creativity combine to create an advantage when executed properly.  Conditioning will be a demand.

After a 3-9 season and an offense that averaged a mere 20.9 points per game, Marion’s addition will be a needed one for the Buffs. He’s set to become the third coordinator hired under Sanders’ tenure as coach, following Pat Shurmur and Sean Lewis. 

Developing Lewis, retaining talent and adding more recruits will be the top priorities for the team in the off-season. Now, having a coordinator gives Colorado more identity for the future and optimism to add to their team.