So who do you start?

[Hal]

If he's healthy, do you go back to Darryl Fields? Or do you agree that Zach Line gutted UAB's defense and go with him?

Personally, I'd start Line. Let him wear down the defense a little and then bring in Fields with his burst of speed.

Isn't Wazzu's defense supposed to be big, moreso than fast? Might be the perfect game for a change-of-pace RB rotation.

[BIGHORSE]

Yes, start Line and if we get a good lead let Fields take over.

[mrydel]

Fields actually started last week and Line came in after one or two plays, even though Line had a good Tech game. I do not know how they determine starters but I am sure they will alternate along with Pope and go with the hot hand( or feet).

[LakeHighlandsPony]

I would rotate both throughout game.

[PoconoPony]

JJ mentioned at the Monday luncheon that they started Fields to merely give him the feel of the game and give UAB an unexpected early look. JJ indicated that Fields is still a long way away from being able to pass block from the aspects of actual blocking techniques as well as recognizing the defenses and getting in the right place to pick up or help. As the season progresses they will give him more work depending on his learning curve. At this time Line has pretty well picked up the system, is their best pass blocker and is obviously doing a great job running.

[PoconoPony]

I would rotate both throughout game.

Problem of doing any systematic rotation is that Field is still woefully weak on his pass blocking. As a result, you will be telegraphing run on almost every play he is in the game.

[jtstang]

Butler looked good last week too.

[smuuth]

Who starts is not important since a guy could start and play one play and then be out for the rest of the game. Line and Butler are more complete backs at this point due to their experience in the blocking schemes but the young guys bring an added dimension and Fields has speed. We may need them all in a long and brutal season so they better be ready when they get the opportunity. Competiion just makes players better. A great rb coach who is respected and liked by the players doesn't hurt either.

[StallionsModelT]

You have to roll with Line IMO. He has done a very good job thus far and Fields is still a freshman who probably isn't as well versed in pass protection/blitz package pick ups, and things of that nature. When we have a comfortable lead in the second half throw in Fields and Pope and let them get some valuable experience.

[Dutch]

Who starts is not important since a guy could start and play one play and then be out for the rest of the game. Line and Butler are more complete backs at this point due to their experience in the blocking schemes but the young guys bring an added dimension and Fields has speed. We may need them all in a long and brutal season so they better be ready when they get the opportunity. Competiion just makes players better. A great rb coach who is respected and liked by the players doesn't hurt either.

exactly. i've always thought it was dumb to worry about which backs or receivers start a game, as subs can be made after that one play.

[Charleston Pony]

Zach has earned the starter's job, but hopefully Fields and all the other RBs are at full strength and ready to roll

[stc9]

(Analytically) Line's blocking provides a lot of stability. His blocking can provide KP with a few extra seconds as KP looks down field. This is really important while we try to get the run and shoot to be more shoot first.

(In Reality) I love to watch DBs bailout on the play when they realize a 235 lb. beast is running at them full speed.

[Junior]

who starts is completely irrelevant. line started the hawaii bowl, but he was definitely not the feature back, except on short distance situations. june is going to make sure all three (and maybe pope) get some reps this week.