Eddie Cochems, American football player and coach (d. 1953)

Edward Bulwer Cochems: A Pioneer of American Football

Edward Bulwer Cochems (February 4, 1877 – April 9, 1953) stands as a monumental figure in the annals of American football. Primarily celebrated as an innovative American football player and revolutionary coach, Cochems is credited with fundamentally reshaping offensive strategy through his early and effective adoption of the forward pass.

Early Career and Coaching Journey

Cochems' journey in football commenced as a player at the University of Wisconsin, where he competed from 1898 to 1901. Transitioning from player to coach, he took the reins of several collegiate programs. His head coaching career began at North Dakota Agricultural College—now known as North Dakota State University—from 1902 to 1903. This was followed by a season at Clemson University in 1905, setting the stage for his most impactful period.

Revolutionizing the Game: The Forward Pass Era at Saint Louis University (1906-1908)

It was during his three-year tenure as head football coach at Saint Louis University, specifically from 1906 to 1908, that Edward Cochems pioneered a tactical shift that would forever alter the landscape of American football. In a bold and unprecedented move for the era, Cochems became the first college football coach to build his entire offensive scheme around the forward pass. This was particularly audacious given that the forward pass had only just been legalized as a viable play in the 1906 college football season.

Before 1906, football was predominantly a ground-oriented sport, characterized by mass formations and brute force, often leading to severe injuries. The legalization of the forward pass was a crucial rule change, designed to open up the game, make it more dynamic, and enhance player safety. While many contemporary coaches viewed the newly legal pass with skepticism, seeing it as a desperate or high-risk maneuver, Cochems immediately recognized its immense potential as an offensive weapon.

The Unforgettable 1906 Season: A Display of Offensive Dominance

Cochems' visionary strategy at Saint Louis University yielded immediate and spectacular results. The 1906 team, under his innovative guidance, compiled an astonishing and undefeated 11–0 record. Their dominance was not merely confined to victories; the team led the nation in scoring, outscoring their opponents by a staggering combined total of 407 points to just 11. This overwhelming statistical superiority was a direct testament to the effectiveness of Cochems' forward pass-centric offense, which expertly exploited defenses unprepared for such aerial assaults.

A key figure in this offensive revolution was Saint Louis University quarterback Bradbury Robinson, who, on September 5, 1906, is widely credited with throwing the first legal forward pass in a football game against Carroll College. This historic moment underscored Cochems' commitment to integrating the pass as a fundamental component of his team's attack, demonstrating that it could be used systematically and with devastating effect, rather than as a last resort.

Legacy: The "Father of the Forward Pass"

Due to his unparalleled success and groundbreaking methodology in integrating the forward pass into a comprehensive and effective offensive system, Edward Bulwer Cochems is widely regarded by many football historians and enthusiasts as the "father of the forward pass" in American football. His pioneering efforts laid the essential groundwork for the modern passing game, profoundly influencing offensive strategies and contributing significantly to the evolution of college and professional football alike.

Frequently Asked Questions About Edward Bulwer Cochems

Who was Edward Bulwer Cochems?

Edward Bulwer Cochems was a pioneering American football player and coach, renowned for being the first coach to build an offense around the forward pass in college football.

When did the forward pass become a legal play in college football?

The forward pass was officially legalized in college football beginning with the 1906 season.

Which team did Cochems coach when he introduced the forward pass offense?

He coached the Saint Louis University football team, specifically during his tenure from 1906 to 1908.

What was the achievement of Cochems' 1906 Saint Louis University team?

The 1906 team achieved an undefeated 11–0 record, led the nation in scoring, and outscored opponents 407 to 11, largely due to their innovative use of the forward pass.

Who is credited with throwing the first legal forward pass in a game?

Bradbury Robinson, the quarterback for Edward Cochems' 1906 Saint Louis University team, is widely recognized for throwing the first legal forward pass on September 5, 1906.