258 + 341 = 599

[docabel]

I agree with your argument in theory, but PonySoprano is right in that sacks are counted as rushing attempts in the NCAA. With our 26 sacks against this year that is 26 less actual rushing attempts and 26 more passes (39% to 61%).

In the Rice game, we actually had a even 50-50 split, but with the 5 sacks, we end up with 34 rushes/24 passes.

The NCAA has always screwed with the actual rushing numbers by not differentiating sacks like the NFL does.

Aside from that, it is not only the attempts, but the effectiveness of those attempts. McNeal puts a threat that could break any run that we have not had in years here.

[hawaiisashimi_smu]

The R&S is a quick strike passing offense. It uses the pass to set up the run but it is NOT a one dimensional offense.

This means thst the R&S can rackup huge running numbers too.

Just ask Barry Sanders after he experienced the R&S and had a 1000 yard rushing season. He said it was the only offense that he would play in.

The R&S is capable of putting up big rushing numbers with less run plays than a prototypical rushing offense. The RB will run less but will gain more yards per carry in the R&S. This means the RB will get less banged up, less injuries, and extend his playing years while gaining more yards.

But the RB role is more extensive. He will have to learn to block first to pickup the blitz and protect the QB. He needs to block, run, and catch the ball.

The shuttle pass is like a running play but is actually a forward pass or a short forward toss to the RB who can run for extra yardage. This is where the OL and receivers need to improve their down field blocking. Some of you can see this starting to happen with the YAC after the short passes. Many R&S RBs have made a carrier out of the shuttle pass.

Nate Ilaoa was one of the best RBs in the R&S. He had size and speed. He had 1000 yards rushing and 1000 yards receiving in one season.

It also depends what the opposing defense is allowing. If the D drops back 8 and only rushes 3, expect JJ to run the ball. If the D does that all game long, expect JJ to run the ball all game long. However, if the DBs are cheating and playing closer to the line of scrimmage, expect JJ to throw the long ball to keep the DBs honest and spreadout the downfield.

Another trade mark of JJ is the attacking defense. It is more exciting. It is the job of the defense to get the ball back and give it to the offense. All the D has to do is hold the opposing offense to one less point than SMU. This is why the D has had many turnovers and takeaways. They work at it.

This is the kind of high stakes football that JJ likes to play. Exciting but also can be frustrating if not executed consistently. This is a young team that is over achieving.

Go Mustangs!