June Jones, pioneering run-and-shoot coach, dies at 73

Jones became known for the run-and-shoot, a pass-focused offense built around receivers changing routes in response to defensive formations. He played quarterback at Oregon, Hawaii and Portland State, then spent time with the Atlanta Falcons and Toronto Argonauts before moving into coaching. He later coached in the NFL, CFL and XFL, with his final coaching role as offensive coordinator of the Seattle Sea Dragons in 2023.

His most celebrated stretch came at Hawaii, where he coached from 1999 through 2007. Taking over after the team went 0-12, Jones led it to a 9-4 mark and helped secure part of the Western Athletic Conference crown in his first season. Hawaii won two WAC championships and reached six bowl games during his tenure, completing the 2007 regular season without a loss before falling to Georgia in the Sugar Bowl.

Jones compiled a 76-41 record at Hawaii. His offenses featured prolific passers, including Colt Brennan, a Heisman Trophy finalist. Jones moved to SMU in 2008, helping the Mustangs return to bowl appearances before leaving early in the 2014 season. He also led the Falcons from 1994 to 1996, taking them to the playoffs once. Tributes from the Falcons, Hawaii and SMU recognized his influence on players and his contributions to their programs.