Attention armchair coaches: Did Dantonio run the ball TOO much against EMU?

[SpartyHardy]

Originally Posted by Pablo Fanque

Fair enough. I don't think there's a right or wrong answer to this question.

I just think that, oh maybe 10 more passes would've been good practice for Hoyer and/or Cousins. MSU won't be able to run the ball down the throats of every opponent on the schedule. See Cal as an example.

Fair enough there too. The OL does need the reps in pass protection as well in game situations because they won't be able to run it down the throats of the better teams that they will face. But the coaching staff felt the need...and I agree with it...to concentrate on the running game in this particular game and this was the type of opponent that allowed them to be able to do that. Plus, they got a blow out victory without putting on display more of the playbook than they needed to...still another plus for the OL's confidence building.

I like the way is building his program here. He is totally focused and is getting his players to do things the right way. There are no quick fixes that will produce continuous long term results. We learned that the hard way with JLS. Continuing to do things the right way over and over until it becomes second nature is what is needed, particularly when your talent and/or experience level isn't where you'd like it to be. This team...and more importantly...this program...is on the right track.

[All Your Base]

Agree that Ringer had too many carries, but EMU was completely stacking the box, and MD still ran it down their throats.

That does two things: the OL got LOTS of reps against live competition (okay, EMU might not equal 'live' comp. ) in an actual game.

and two: It builds toughness and the kind of cohesiveness that MD is looking for. 5 yards a clip on the ground with NO big home runs is nice and steady. We didn't really run to the outside that much yesterday, and that's a good thing. Pound that rock, baby!

As far as Hoyer getting more pass attempts, IMO it's easier to work on timing routes and such in practice than it is smashmouth football. You just can't simulate that in practice without risking injury.

[Mr. Tanfan]

Originally Posted by Cuchulainn

Don't want to open up too much of the playbook. If you can consistently get 5 yards a carry running in between the tackles, you should stick with it.

[Blade Runner]

I say if you can win a game fairly handily without passing too much, go for it. Running was moving the ball very well, so why go away from what works? I'm not saying we should only pass when we have to, but if you can beat a team by pounding them out on the ground, why not do it?

[75alum]

Originally Posted by Pablo Fanque

16 pass attempts
52 rush attempts

What say you?

Oh hell yeah. Dantonio's gonna' hafta' leran that when something works, he should screw with it until defeat is at hand. Jebus, didn't he learn anything from JL "Slim Pickin's" Smith?