Having spent the better part of four decades following my beloved dawgs, I have the strong tendency to apply history when discussing present events. Many are asking "Where's the running game?", "Why so many dropped passes?", "Whose the better QB?", "Why such a strong start only to appear unprepared for the last two?". All are valid and might I suggest, equally related questions.
Earlier, it was mentioned that this is a young and inexperienced team, this fact alone should answer many of the afore noted questions. The better QB happens to be healing from a high ankle injury. JTIII alone, has full command of the entire play book. Once injuried, we've been witness to an extended pre-season allowing for JC and MS to step forward...or not. At this point I can't say that either has distanced themselves enough to keep from playing JTIII, should he be healthy. It is equally important to note that our schedule played favorably toward CMR's NEED to give BOTH JC and MS opportunities to advance.
On the matter of the running game,...it doesn't take a rocket scientist to see that both JC and MS are developing passers. Couple that with some inconsistent play by our receivers and you have the perfect defensive scheme. Load 8-9 in the box and force the QB to beat you with his arm. This is why we've struggled in the running game. Both Colorado and Ole Miss stacked the line! While the Colorado game required some 4th quarter heroics, the Ole Miss game was never a question of control. I have the distinct feeling that CMR simply allowed Cox and Stafford the opportunity to sharpen their individual passing skills, knowing that the road ahead would require them! Unfortunately, neither seemed so sharp as to distance themselves from the potential return of JTIII.
Our problem with dropped passes have exponentially increased in part to the rotation of QB's. Each QB throws differently and that requires adjustment....adjustments from receivers that already have some difficulties. This is a viscious cycle that I hope a pray we are able to break!!!!
We are a few days away from entering the meat of our schedule. One look at the teams ahead should signal that the cupcakes are gone...from here on it's "damn the torpedos". FWIW, I believe we will see the return of JTIII under center and hopefully the return of the methodic, vanilla play calling that helped make David Greene the NCAA record holder. Neither MS nor JC stepped up to be considered a world beater, and in this conference, I'm not surprised....
I've noticed several new posters to this board,...welcome! This is a great site for some down home dawg dialogue...
Well, it about time to strap it on, cinch it tight and get ready to do battle with the big boys. I suspect that we WILL see quite a different team on Saturday than we've seen over the last few weeks. If you are going, make Sanford rock! NEVER underestimate the power of the 12th Player!!!
GO DAWGS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
"My advice to you is to start drinking heavily." - Bluto
