As i wrote in another thread. We run the ball well, I feel pretty good for a solid win. But if we run like last week, we very likely lose.
And also wrote, this will not be pleasing to Whipple, and actually unfair because he had a good passing scheme last week ... but it's pretty clear we can't be a passing team with this QB, and Duz can't or won't switch QBs. We have to figure out, and in a hurry, how to get close to being the running team we were last season.
The pedigree and depth at the RB position would suggest it's possible to be a good running team, if the OL can come along in run blocking, which is typically easier than pass blocking. I just hope unlike last year there could be a role for Carter and V Davis as speedy backs to complement the bruisers in Sibley and Davis. And more ways to get the ball in Ffrenchys hands too.
I can see friction rising between Duz and Whipple because of this eventually. Whip will no doubt be like, hey, I didn't sign up for Ground Duz. But it seems inevitable to have to play this way. And it will leave things maybe a little easier for Pickett when he does have to throw. He can use play action to slow the rush that freaks him out so much. And if the pass becomes an after thought for the offense instead of the focus, he should be less anxious and uptight. We can only hope.
So anyway I'll cautiously offer up Pitt rushing for at least a buck fifty and winning 23-14.
