September 1, 2008
BYU’s Running, Return and Kicking Game
Written by: CrashUtah
Every year it seems like there are 3 things we don’t have to worry about as BYU fans. Our running game will be sketchy (especially in the blue zone), we don’t have anyone explosive returning the ball and we’re going to stress in every part of the kicking game.
For some odd reason, it seems like this year is different in all three areas.
Run Game
As a BYU fan I usually hate getting inside the 5 yard line. Mostly because in the past I’ve rarely ever trusted that the run game could get it done and get it in the end zone (Staley may be the exception here). I much preferred BYU to be at least 10-20 yards out, because then we can run a pass play for a touchdown. Something that’s much harder when you have less field to work with.
This year so far I’ve felt very different. When BYU was down close to the end zone, I felt complete confidence in BYU’s run game. I felt like the combination of a killer O-line and Unga that we could run it straight at them and have a great chance at the score. In fact, Unga did just this a few times. Of course, this was a D-II team (yes I know it’s a new name now) so it will be fun to see if I feel the same against Washington and UCLA.
Return Game
No offense to Collie who is a nice return guy, but honestly I never felt like Collie was going to really break it for a really long run. Beyond Collie I can’t think of a great return guy since somewhere back into somewhere in the Lavelle years. Either BYU just didn’t have that type of talent or the coaches just liked someone safe and reliable at that spot. I will admit that I enjoyed watching Reno Mahe return the ball, but I mostly was just surprised how he could allude tacklers.
This year no one can argue with Chambers speed. He looked great returning the ball. The excitement when he gets the ball is almost palpable. I can see why he guaranteed the coaches he’d return one for a TD. My biggest fear with Chambers is whether he can stay out of Bronco’s dog house. I personally think Chambers made 2 boneheaded plays in the game. I’m sure he’ll never fair catch a ball on the 5 yard line again. However, his running backward, jumping in the air, 7 yards in the end zone return is not something I bet Bronco will look on lightly.
Let’s hope Bronco gives him the benefit of the doubt and that more importantly Chambers has learned some good lessons, because the guy is exciting to watch.
Kicking Game
Every year it seems like the kicking game is a major fear. Ok, I’m still not completely over this fear after an extra point was blocked, but it’s better this year than any year before. Sending the kickoff out of the back of the end zone is great. The option to take a 65 yard field goal if needed is a wonderful option. Having a nice reliable punter is even nice. We’ll see how the kicking game does crunch time, but I’ve never been happier with the options available to Bronco.
I agree with you on the last 2……returning and kicking game. I’m not as convinced about the run game just yet however. I thought we struggled a little more than I expected.
Loving the blog.
Triz,
Notice that I said the run game in the blue zone. I’m not sure about the run game overall yet either. Some say it’s because UNI focused on the run which is why Pitta had a big game. Others say it’s because Fui wasn’t there and of course we are certainly missing Tonga.
One thing is certain about the run game. I don’t think we have as much depth as we hoped/thought we might have. Looks like Collie might have to step back and be a running back too.
Fui not being there is a definate impact. I would hate to be the first guy to catch a lead block from him on Saturday. I am sure he has a little frustration he would like to get out. The real reason i think they may have struggled some is that UNI was focused on the run, and they slowed it down quite a bit, but then you have Pitta break out. That is the true stength of this team on offense, they are not one dimensional. Take away the run, and you open up the tight end. Take away the middle, and you have Collie and Reed. To really shut BYU down you have to take away all three aspects, and that is next to impossible to do as long as Hall is reading the defense right and making the right calls. His efficiency on Saturday would lead me to say he is doing well again.
I also remember a time not too long ago when the kicking game was a pretty sure thing, though this Payne is not nearly what his brothers were.
I think the author is a little confused about the run game. For each of the past 3 years, BYU has had someone run for over 1000 yards. Also, the teams total has been over 1800 for each of the past three years as well.
For the kickers, last year was bad, but Other than that it has been rather good. Jared Mclaughlin was good, and I knew people who planned on casting a write in ballot for Matt Payne for president in 2004.
Kick returners, I agree comletely
Gorath,
What you point to is BYU’s quality of running game overall. You’re right that overall they’ve had a decent running game. I’m talking about the running game inside the blue zone. Sure, sometimes they punched it in, but all too many times in the past years has BYU resorted to passing the ball to one of the tight ends or receivers in some sort of timing route instead of just running the ball into the end zone. This year I think the teams has confidence in the running game that it won’t always need to resort to the air when close to the end zone.
You can’t tell me that in previous years the kicking was all that good. I seem to even remember Bronco talking about that being a point of emphasis. The punting has been scary more often than not. Matt Payne was good, but not great. Matt Payne’s fame was because of his tackles (which were extraordinary) after kickoffs. I haven’t looked at the numbers in detail, but I do remember never feeling all that confident in our kicking game.
The point isn’t necessarily a complaint about the past, but more about the excitement for the future of these 3 areas. I’m glad that BYU has found a way to be stronger in all 3 areas.