Passing game

[Buddha]

Which takes longer to develop: timing and chemistry between QBs and WRs, or continuity between new OLs?

Both are vital, obviously.

[SWC2010]

Yes, both are vital. But I believe it is the QB/WR that takes time. New coach. New plays. New routes for FR. New reads. You can have the greatest protection, but if the QB/WR can't play catch you punt every 4 downs.

[giacfsp]

Yeah, but if there's no protection, you could have John Elway and Jerry Rice out there and it wouldn't matter. Very few QBs can complete passes when they're lying on their backs, looking out the earhole in their helmets.

Personally, I think the cohesion of the line takes longer to develop, but fortunately, most of these guys have been together for more than a year. They're getting to the level of familiarity they need. True, Coach Vinklarek's blocking schemes are new, but I bet they catch on pretty quick. They'd better, or Phillips is going to be running for his life.

[dandyfan]

pass protection and recognition is the single hardest thing to develop in the game. not just with the line but backs working with the line and the QB able to read the hots.

[Buddha]

Coach Burns should have a huge impact on the offense as SMU now will present a viable threat through the air. And the influx of new talent seems to be making great strides. Devin Lowery, Bobby Chase, Jessie Henderson, Cortley Blackmon, Fred Turner and Tony Hawkins all seem to have the ability - now they just need the reps and the experience.