The West Coast offense, as designed by Bill Walsh, is supposed to be about short passes and yards-after-the-catch. But that wasn't McNabb. He had a big arm and was one of the league's better deep-ball throwers but never was particularly accurate, as evidenced by his .590 career completion percentage, and lacked touch on his short passes.
So, while the sign in the window said "West Coast," the McNabb-led Eagles ran more of a vertical passing offense as the team's head coach, Andy Reid, tried to play to his quarterback's strengths.
Kolb, though, is a more prototypical West Coast quarterback. While his arm is plenty strong enough to throw the deep ball, his greatest asset is his accuracy. He is a rhythm passer who gets the ball out quickly and accurately to his targets, allowing them yards-after-the-catch opportunities.
"Kevin's accuracy is going to be the biggest factor [in the offense's success]," tight end Brent Celek said. "If you get it there accurately, the guy can catch it and turn upfield. If it's not [accurate], you've got to turn your body and it slows you down and the defense can catch up quicker. Getting the ball out fast and getting it to you in a position where you can cut up the field quickly is what it's all about."
Bottom line: The Eagles will run a more traditional West Coast offense with Kolb, heavier on short and intermediate routes that will give the Eagles' talented receiving corps more yards-after-the-catch chances.
"We will be different," offensive coordinator Marty Mornhinweg said. "You always play to your [quarterback's] strengths. Kevin is a quick decision-maker. He typically throws a ball on time with accuracy.
"Donovan, there's no question he had one of the stronger arms, maybe of all time. He could make the brilliant play. Kolb is very, very consistent."
