We don't have to be a dynamic running team to win it, but we do have to run it effectively enough to assist the offensive line to help keep the defensive line in check.

Note how well the offensive line has played since we started to mix in the run from our passing sets.. it effectively "pauses" the defensive line. Which in turn reduces the all out pass rushes within the game, the defense at least has to check off the run before getting up field.

Also, it was a thing of beauty to see a number of 3rd and less than three's the past couple weeks.. it opens up the playbook for more of the playaction stuff and leads to more open passing lanes and deeper routes down the field.

IMO, one has little to complain about in Mike McCarthy playcalling the past 4 weeks.. balancing it up with the occasional run/draw out of 3 and 4 wide sets.

Oh the one other benefit of running the ball.. the offensive line gets to attack the defense instead of the inverse.. which will wear down a defensive line quicker than allowing them to pin their ears back an entire game.

We don't have a dynamic running attack.. but that doesn't mean the running attack can't help us win games. It does so much to set the table for the passing game that many overlook.

"pack93z" wrote:

Now, let's see if you can do it too. Admit you're wrong that we can win games when our RBs don't run for 92 yards, without veering off topic.

"zombieslayer" wrote:

Raji said the defense would continue to focus on stopping the run.

"Our philosophy, which has been working well for us so far, we want to stop the run initially so we can get teams in a more predictable state," he said. "Then we can come with the blitzing we love to do."

"JSonline.com" wrote:

Question - would you rather have 150 running yards or 45 points?

The answer to that question is the answer to your question. I don't care how we get the points. We win games by scoring. If it's 50 runs and 1 pass, cool. If it's 50 passes and 1 run, cool. Passing gives us our best chance of scoring.

As for our RBs, Jackson's blocking ability cannot be praised enough. His blocking is in the top 30% of what I've seen, and I've watched a lot of RBs since 1976. I'm very proud of him.

FYI - The Steelers won the SB two years ago with 58 total yards rushing. The Saints won the SB last year with even less. Should we take away their Lombardi trophies because they didn't get enough rushing yards?

"zombieslayer" wrote:

For the most part I'm in agreement with Zombie on this whole topic which tirelessly has invaded several threads. But that doesn't change the fact that I would like to see a power running game too for games which we have blown out. I've stated in the past that with the current left side of Clifton and College, that this is not possible. If we get a mauler LG to go with Sitton, this can change - but I do not envision it happening until the left side changes. Chad Clifton is a pass blocking specialist, but doesn't have the tenacity to be a great run blocker.

"DakotaT" wrote: