2025 Convention Recap | Craig Stutzmann, San Jose State | Offensive Philosophy

Craig Stutzmann: Offensive Coordinator at San Jose State University

Craig Stutzmann is the Offensive Coordinator at San Jose State University, having recently completed his first season on staff. With a coaching career that began in Hawaii at the high school level, Coach Stutzmann has built an impressive resume with experience at multiple programs, including Hawaii, Portland State, Memphis, Rhodes College, Weber State, Emory & Henry, Washington State, Utah Tech, and Texas State.

In the video below, Coach Stutzmann provides an in-depth breakdown of the San Jose State offense. He covers three key aspects of his coaching approach:

• Core Principles that define the team culture and contribute to success.
• Key Responsibilities of his offensive staff to ensure the team is well-prepared for game day.
• Offensive Philosophy and why having a clear strategy is instrumental.

Core Principles of the San Jose State Offense

Aloha Spirit

• Integrity: Strive for excellence while maintaining strong moral principles.
• Humility: Stay open to learning and improving by listening to others.
• Passion: Commit fully to your craft and the people around you.

Communication

• Verbal Skills: Use positive and engaging language to unify the team.
• Non-Verbal Skills: Be mindful of body language and interactions.
• Same Language: Ensure team-wide understanding by standardizing terminology.

Shoot Your Shot

• Be Confident: Trust in your skills, training, and preparation.
• Be Decisive: Make informed choices and stand by them.
• Have No Regrets: Leave it all on the field with no second-guessing.

Key Responsibilities in the San Jose State Offense

Lead

• Provide direction and inspire teammates.
• Motivate and hold one another accountable.

Love

• Foster a positive team environment through actions, not just words.
• Build meaningful relationships within the program.

Make Tough Decisions

• Coaches must navigate difficult choices to benefit the team.
• Value = Benefit over Cost: Always assess the assets each player and play bring to the table.

Offensive Identity at San Jose State

Style of Play

• Fast – Physical – Intelligent – Relentless
• Multiple Tempos: Keeps defenses guessing and forces them to adjust.

Key Offensive Concepts

• Streak Reads, Choice Reads, Double Post Combos, 9’s
• Offensive Line Techniques: Jump sets, combos, and preparation against defensive line movements.
• RPO A-B-C’s: Mastering reads at different levels (A-Level, B-Level, C-Level).
• Quick Release: Prioritizing fast decision-making and ball distribution.

Coach Stutzmann’s approach emphasizes discipline, adaptability, and teamwork, ensuring that the San Jose State offense remains dynamic and competitive. Watch the video below for a deeper dive into his strategies and philosophies.