Would A running focus team be a bad thing?

[updownsigma]

We were a run first team in 2011 too, just our running game was better and we were more explosive when we did pass, which is the way it should be IMO. Not run, 3 yard out route, screen pass off a draw, repeat. I know we probably can't get back to that this year b/c of our receiving corp (or lack thereof) and o-line, but fug all this Cam being a "game manager" stuff. It's entirely possible to grind it out on the ground, pass vertically and still limit turnovers, etc. That should be what we're aiming for...middle ground between Chudball "mad-scientist-read-option-shotgun-base-formation" and Shulaball dink n dunk.

[TheNewStandard]

Couldn't ask for a better way to break-in a new offensive unit, than to have a run-heavy offense. This will help instill the importance of blocking and route-running which will go a long way in forming a solid foundation for our receivers to build upon as a unit. Do the little things right, paying attention to detail and execution of each play and go make a play.

This could be the season of Hurney's swan song as we finally get returns on all the money spent towards the rushing attack. There won't be a more important season, than this one, for building our offense for the future of this franchise. If we can generate 3000 yards on the ground, we will be a very successful team and if all our guys are healthy, there is no reason why we can't be the best rushing team in the league.

Once again, we play to take full advantage of our strengths and get to make the most out of our coaching philosophy...control the ball on offense and limit the opposition's scoring opportunities. A true team effort.

It sounds good anyway.

I am optimistic because we will be injecting rookies into the offense and rushing the ball effectively is easier and more natural than operating a complex passing attack. This will minimize the learning curve that our new players will go through and hopefully build confidence for when we open up the playbook.

Just what the doctor ordered for a rebuilt offensive unit and it will go a long way in teaching the young receiving corp the importance of downfield blocking and our team will benefit as a whole.

This really takes the pressure off of our young offensive players as they will be asked to work as a unit, rather than having to depend on them individually to constantly carry the offensive burden. There's not a better way to shatter confidence than to expect too much from a young playmaker and beat him up due to inexperience when he fails.

Can't wait for the draft.

[Khaki Lackey]

Winning games 14-7 while physically punishing the other teams' offense is fine by me.

[TheNewStandard]

We were a run first team in 2011 too, just our running game was better and we were more explosive when we did pass, which is the way it should be IMO. Not run, 3 yard out route, screen pass off a draw, repeat. I know we probably can't get back to that this year b/c of our receiving corp (or lack thereof) and o-line, but fug all this Cam being a "game manager" stuff. It's entirely possible to grind it out on the ground, pass vertically and still limit turnovers, etc. That should be what we're aiming for...middle ground between Chudball "mad-scientist-read-option-shotgun-base-formation" and Shulaball dink n dunk.

You are right. We don't really have much if a choice with this team. It will definitely be a baby steps kind of progression and I don't think that's a bad thing.

Who knows? This could be what Shula desperately needs because he runs such a conservative playbook. Keep It Simple Stupid rules the day. Build a strong rushing attack and open up the playbook off I that, we could see a renaissance here, in our young offensive unit, that we can progressively build from as our team matures and progresses. Lends to great overall balance and sustainability when there is a strong foundation in place.

What I love is that our team is so young, not just at this position or that position, but across the board. Our OL, receivers, defense...our Core is young and they are studs, not just talented, but truly effective leaders and that is pretty rare to have across an entire franchise. It's great because we will actually get to see the progression of this team through the weeks, months and years until it finally comes to fruition collectively.

We can replace pieces here and there and get young playmakers and fill out the roster with role-playing vets who have specialities that can be exploited and drawn upon to add wrinkles and schemes to the foundation. It's pretty exciting and it's the first time that I've seen our team with this strong and young of a core, without looking inexperienced or overwhelmed. It's a beautiful thing.

[carolina-chuck]

With what RB tho?

[Kuech the Sneak]

Problem is oline. Fix that and 70% of our problems on offence are gone.

Better oline/QB(which we already have) can make the rest of an offense look great

[Password is Taco]

if we had a good RB yeah

[Beast_3000]

Yes, it will and I believe we will lean heavily on the run game and 2 TE set. We are getting younger at the OL position and Stewart will have a healthy off-season. Stewart is the feature back, Williams for change of pace, & Tolbert for short yardage & goal line.

I hate to admit it but you and several other posters are right we need a good strong run blocking tackle in the first round. We will not get our ideal #1 receiver in the first. We could get a good one but our line may not hold blocks long enough which could lead to turnovers and 3rd and longs.

We need to make sure our foundation is strong for this upcoming season and that will probably require a round1 offensive lineman.

[panthers55]

You can only be a run first team when defenses fear your passing game.  Otherwise they load the box and no one can run against 9 or 10 defenders. You have to have balance which makes you more effective.

[Beast_3000]

Man I hope Stewwy is ready to roll this season. He could be the equivalent of a draft pick with his power and speed.

[Clicheking]

Problem is Stewart is never healthy so ummmm yeah about that theory.......

[Beast_3000]

You can only be a run first team when defenses fear your passing game. Otherwise they load the box and no one can run against 9 or 10 defenders. You have to have balance which makes you more effective.

I agree but you build balance first by having a strong line. If the offensive line is dominated on run and pass blocking Megaton and AP wouldn't do us any good.

[Beast_3000]

Problem is Stewart is never healthy so ummmm yeah about that theory.......

Ugh I know. Tell me about it. I have to be optimistic about something this offseason.

[jtnc]

Seattle did it last year with a horrible offensive line.

Seattle didn't have a horrible offensive line. Yeah, they were hit by injuries at one point in the season, plus their strength is run-blocking. That's what they look for in their linemen.