Question 4 Brian: When Ricky Barnum Pulls...
Brian,
I've watched the EMU games a few times now and just watched the Every Snap Video: UM Offense vs. EMU Defense.
Question: Why are we so BAD when Ricky Barnum pulls?
Is that bad luck in playcalling or is that on Barnum?
Other than a long Vincent Smith run in the 2nd quarter, we may have gotten neg. yardage every other time he pulled to block from his LG spot.
Feedback?
September 22nd, 2011 at 11:11 AM ^
Email?
September 22nd, 2011 at 11:19 AM ^
Only if you change that horrifying avatar.
September 22nd, 2011 at 11:19 AM ^
RPS can play a major factor here because if you run blitz into the gap that a pulling gaurd leaves behind, the offense is pretty much screwed (unless Mike Hart is in the backfield).
I think this also ties into what Brian was saying about zone blocking vs. pulling lineman. Our line, save Lewan, is built for reach blocks and getting out onto helpless linebackers (see Omameh vs. Te'o 2010). I'm sure this issue will become much clearer when Brian releases the Offensive UFR later today, but I think its more of a schematic issue than just Barnum.
September 22nd, 2011 at 11:55 AM ^
Isn't our line also built for guys to be able to pull? Since Barnum and Omameh are known for being quick and agile, I took that to mean that would could have a very successful running game with lots of Student Body Left and Student Body Right types of plays.
September 22nd, 2011 at 12:21 PM ^
Take that UM Offense vs. EMU Defense Every Snap video, and go to :33 and freeze it. Now advance it 1 second to :34. Pause again at :35 and :36.
This is a zone read, I believe (but what the hell do I know?). The RB portion of the play is designed to go between Barnum and Lewan. Barnum and Molk scoop the NT, and Barnum heads out to block the LB. Lewan destroys the outside end and the TE does a fine job on his OLB.
At :35 you'll see a gaping hole between Barnum and Lewan. Only the safety will have a chance to tackle, or the CB once he turns off the reciever. This is big yardage.
Toussaint instead, inexplicably, turns to his right, and straight into the only defender unblocked (on purpose) in the entire front 7. He's tackled and falls forward for 4 yards.
I can't imagine making a decision and a cut in a matter of a few seconds, but that's what RB's are supposed to do. Moreso, if he just hits the hole he's supposed to go into, this is a huge gainer. Instead he goes off-book and right into trouble. Not only do we need a RB who can make his own yards, we need one who can take what RPS and the OL are giving us.
September 22nd, 2011 at 1:33 PM ^
I would bet that the MGoBlog collective watches as much film as the coaching staff.
September 22nd, 2011 at 1:34 PM ^
at the video, but just from watching the game on tv i can back up this statement. the RB's aren't running to the right spot. if there is one reason vincent smith deserves to be the starter, this is it. he consistently sticks to his blockers backside and hits the right hole.
September 22nd, 2011 at 1:55 PM ^
V Smith not only runs to his assignment, but hes also patient and waits for blocks. That's one of DRobs best attributes as a runner. He stays behinds his blockers (when hes not sprinting for a 98 yd td) and takes what the Oline gives him. The difference is that robinson can make 11 miss
September 22nd, 2011 at 4:50 PM ^
everyone seems to want a single guy to take over the RB spot, but I kinda like the commitee thing. The past few years we have had so many backs plagued with injuries that it's nice to have so many good options. I like all of them for different reasons, and if we keep using several of them they will last longer. I do understand that some backs need multiple carries to get into a rhythm, but I like the idea of changing it up play to play. Imagine expecting Vince and it's Stephen comming at you instead. Ouch.