PonyFans.com

I have to admit that when I heard that Zach Line was likely going to be our starting RB, I was a bit disappionted. Given the type of runner he was last year, I figured we were going back to the Jones' old ways of using RBs more sparingly. Well, I am pleased to say I was wrong.

Not only have I been surprised that we are running as much as we are, but I am even more surprised at Zach Line's performance. He was great tonight. He has proven to be not only a tough runner, but also has the ability to move side-to-side really well for a big man. The run late in the game that we thought might have been his 3rd TD was terrific. That juke on their player was great, and had the ball of his foot not hit the white, he would have easily scored.

I am excited to see what else he can do this year. Great job Zach and great job O line blocking for him.

UAB begged us to run to the weak side. And we did. Line ran behind some good blocking and JJ was sharp enough to recognize the UAB weakness. IT seemed every time we lined up with the defensive weak side wide open, we ran to that side and did well. And Line ran like a 1st team running back when he got the ball. He ran hard and didn't give up on a play.

WSU has to really prepare for our running game and if Padron and the receivers get in gear, we could have a great offensive day.

Had a MONSTER night. He pretty much won the game, IMO. Defense was actually pretty solid most of the night too.

I do not get many things right but I mentioned a couple of weeks ago that I thought we would be very pleased with Line thus year. Having a year to prepare for being a RB after being initially told he was going to be a LB, he has trimed down, runs with power, and protects the ball. The new kids will be great but it takes a while to adjust to the college game, and for now I like me some Zach Line.

Zach Line is Mike Richardson from Excitement 68 only a little bigger

Back in the day of tear away jerseys etc., I remember Mike zig zaggin, digging thru, and ripping
through defenders with his shirt torn to shreds, and maybe half his shoulder pads torn away when
he was down

Zach does remind me if Mike Ricgardson. Had not thought of that until you mentioned it but you are correct.

just call him 'moose' as he reminds me of Darryl Johnson when he was at Syracuse.. Line is bad a@##!

There is no doubt Zach Line is a hoss. But I think the defensive co-ordinators are over-compensating for the passing attack they saw us employ against Nevada and others last year. Result: Huge gaping areas of the field left open for Zach and Kyle and whoever else decides to go for a nice gain.We may never see speed like Shawnbrey again, but if the defenses play back on us the way they have so far, it wont matter.

good to have a stable of RBs if opposing defenses are going to focus on stopping the passing game. Zach and the OL were offensive MVPs last night; if Fields hadn't suffered the thigh bruise, he may have had big yardage

He was very impressive---and fun to watch.

Remember, Zach was recruited to be a linebacker, so imagine how good he could be at that position, if Fields and the other RBs start to develop. My guess is that the NFL could use a linebacker that is 6'1", 235/240 lbs., runs the 40 in under 4.6, has great hands, and is one tough SOB.

unclebill wrote:Remember, Zach was recruited to be a linebacker, so imagine how good he could be at that position, if Fields and the other RBs start to develop. My guess is that the NFL could use a linebacker that is 6'1", 235/240 lbs., runs the 40 in under 4.6, has great hands, and is one tough SOB.

excellent point. With Fleps being a senior, I could see bringing Fields and Pope along then adding KC next year and putting Line at LB once Fleps graduates

PlanoStang wrote:Zach Line is Mike Richardson from Excitement 68 only a little bigger

Back in the day of tear away jerseys etc., I remember Mike zig zaggin, digging thru, and ripping
through defenders with his shirt torn to shreds, and maybe half his shoulder pads torn away when
he was down

I spoke with the great Mike Richardson last night. Pony Up!

Topper wrote:There is no doubt Zach Line is a hoss. But I think the defensive co-ordinators are over-compensating for the passing attack they saw us employ against Nevada and others last year. Result: Huge gaping areas of the field left open for Zach and Kyle and whoever else decides to go for a nice gain.We may never see speed like Shawnbrey again, but if the defenses play back on us the way they have so far, it wont matter.

what's going to be fun football is when they start adjusting to stop our running game and Kyle can light it up w/ his arm.

His waistline looks much smaller but he is so much more quicker and faster than last year....he is a player for sure. Looks like he might have an NFL future. A blocker and a runner is priceless for this offense. The young guys are doing good too. Glad to see the coaches getting more players into the game and not just because of injuries.