FB: Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference

[emma17]

It's interesting to see how much running the QB's of the final four teams have been doing.  In the last two games, Burke of Mt has run the ball 32 times.  Bailey of MHB has run it 33 times.  O'Connell of St. T has run it 30 times and Wara has run it 31 times.

Interesting and if you remember, Matt Blanchard did the same last year.   I wonder how many are designed runs or pass/run options or just smart quarterbacks not wanting to throw into coverage and trying to make some positive yardage?

Blanchard ran (certainly more than UWW qb's this year), but not anywhere near the pace of these guys.
Good question on the whether it's designed or not. Having watched the Mt v MHB game, it seems the QB run is a built in option that is fully a part of the game plan off of either a run (option) or pass play.   Burke was terrific in making decisions and his running was devastating.

It makes me think about UWW 2013.  We saw the results of an offense that lacks a great O-Line, star running back and high quality receivers. With those players in place a running QB is not a necessity as UWW's run clearly showed. Interestingly none of the final four have a super star running back, and only Mt has a great receiving corp (UWO had only one exceptional receiver).  As for O-Lines, I haven't seen enough to really say, but I suspect they are good but not great. The running threat of the QB seems to me to be the biggest difference. If UWW can't return to the dominating O-Line and star running back, I wonder if we will see a move to a more elusive QB.

[02 Warhawk]

It makes me think about UWW 2013. We saw the results of an offense that lacks a great O-Line, star running back and high quality receivers. With those players in place a running QB is not a necessity as UWW's run clearly showed. Interestingly none of the final four have a super star running back, and only Mt has a great receiving corp (UWO had only one exceptional receiver).  As for O-Lines, I haven't seen enough to really say, but I suspect they are good but not great. The running threat of the QB seems to me to be the biggest difference. If UWW can't return to the dominating O-Line and star running back, I wonder if we will see a move to a more elusive QB.

Speaking of UWW 2013, I've been giving next season a lot of thought. Too many questions for my comfort:

- Offensive Line (my biggest concern)
- Running Back
- Quarterback
- Defensive Line

The 2012 team had a ton of senior leadership. The 2013 season...not so much. There will be a lot of inexperience at the offensive positions I've mentioned above next year. Defense will once again be top notch, but I hope it (again) won't get wasted because of a struggling offense.

[hazzben]

Blanchard ran (certainly more than UWW qb's this year), but not anywhere near the pace of these guys.

Almost like he had an elite RB option in the backfield with him.  That's something none of these final 4 teams have.

[HScoach]

It's interesting to see how much running the QB's of the final four teams have been doing.  In the last two games, Burke of Mt has run the ball 32 times.  Bailey of MHB has run it 33 times.  O'Connell of St. T has run it 30 times and Wara has run it 31 times.

Interesting and if you remember, Matt Blanchard did the same last year.   I wonder how many are designed runs or pass/run options or just smart quarterbacks not wanting to throw into coverage and trying to make some positive yardage?

Blanchard ran (certainly more than UWW qb's this year), but not anywhere near the pace of these guys.
Good question on the whether it's designed or not. Having watched the Mt v MHB game, it seems the QB run is a built in option that is fully a part of the game plan off of either a run (option) or pass play.   Burke was terrific in making decisions and his running was devastating.

It makes me think about UWW 2013.  We saw the results of an offense that lacks a great O-Line, star running back and high quality receivers. With those players in place a running QB is not a necessity as UWW's run clearly showed. Interestingly none of the final four have a super star running back, and only Mt has a great receiving corp (UWO had only one exceptional receiver).  As for O-Lines, I haven't seen enough to really say, but I suspect they are good but not great. The running threat of the QB seems to me to be the biggest difference. If UWW can't return to the dominating O-Line and star running back, I wonder if we will see a move to a more elusive QB.

Your synopsis of the Mount offense is spot on. 
decent/solid offensive line
average running backs
athletic, young QB playing with great poise
GREAT receiving corps

This team doesn't have a physical freak like Garcon/Shorts, but as a group this is the best collection of receivers we've had on one team.  And unlike the last 2 seasons, they're getting their chance to shine as seniors because we finally have a QB that can read the field and make an accurate throw longer than 15 yards.   It's a fun offense to watch with a legit QB.

[footballfan413]

Just throwing this out there to all.  Having a few FIBS, tailgating buddies, etc. to my house to watch the game Friday.  After watching it for the last 7 years either in Salem or Whitewater, this will be the first one from home so want to make it fun still.  We are about 1 hour, 15 min. from Whitewater.  PM me if you'd like to stop by. 

[tommiegun]

It's interesting to see how much running the QB's of the final four teams have been doing.  In the last two games, Burke of Mt has run the ball 32 times.  Bailey of MHB has run it 33 times.  O'Connell of St. T has run it 30 times and Wara has run it 31 times.

Interesting and if you remember, Matt Blanchard did the same last year.   I wonder how many are designed runs or pass/run options or just smart quarterbacks not wanting to throw into coverage and trying to make some positive yardage?

Blanchard ran (certainly more than UWW qb's this year), but not anywhere near the pace of these guys.
Good question on the whether it's designed or not. Having watched the Mt v MHB game, it seems the QB run is a built in option that is fully a part of the game plan off of either a run (option) or pass play.   Burke was terrific in making decisions and his running was devastating.

It makes me think about UWW 2013.  We saw the results of an offense that lacks a great O-Line, star running back and high quality receivers. With those players in place a running QB is not a necessity as UWW's run clearly showed. Interestingly none of the final four have a super star running back, and only Mt has a great receiving corp (UWO had only one exceptional receiver).  As for O-Lines, I haven't seen enough to really say, but I suspect they are good but not great. The running threat of the QB seems to me to be the biggest difference. If UWW can't return to the dominating O-Line and star running back, I wonder if we will see a move to a more elusive QB.

In my opinion, UST's offensive line is stellar.  They have given up 15 sacks in 14 games.  That in an offense that is prone to giving up sacks because of the roll-outs and deep drops.  They have also put a fifth string running back over a thousand yards.  More importantly though, they just seem to impose their will on the teams they face.  At times during the Oshkosh game it seemed like the ball was snapped, and then instantly the line of scrimmage moved 3 yards forward.  Simply amazing.

[thrunt01]

It's interesting to see how much running the QB's of the final four teams have been doing.  In the last two games, Burke of Mt has run the ball 32 times.  Bailey of MHB has run it 33 times.  O'Connell of St. T has run it 30 times and Wara has run it 31 times.

Interesting and if you remember, Matt Blanchard did the same last year.   I wonder how many are designed runs or pass/run options or just smart quarterbacks not wanting to throw into coverage and trying to make some positive yardage?

Blanchard ran (certainly more than UWW qb's this year), but not anywhere near the pace of these guys.
Good question on the whether it's designed or not. Having watched the Mt v MHB game, it seems the QB run is a built in option that is fully a part of the game plan off of either a run (option) or pass play.   Burke was terrific in making decisions and his running was devastating.

It makes me think about UWW 2013.  We saw the results of an offense that lacks a great O-Line, star running back and high quality receivers. With those players in place a running QB is not a necessity as UWW's run clearly showed. Interestingly none of the final four have a super star running back, and only Mt has a great receiving corp (UWO had only one exceptional receiver).  As for O-Lines, I haven't seen enough to really say, but I suspect they are good but not great. The running threat of the QB seems to me to be the biggest difference. If UWW can't return to the dominating O-Line and star running back, I wonder if we will see a move to a more elusive QB.

In my opinion, UST's offensive line is stellar.  They have given up 15 sacks in 14 games.  That in an offense that is prone to giving up sacks because of the roll-outs and deep drops.  They have also put a fifth string running back over a thousand yards.  More importantly though, they just seem to impose their will on the teams they face.  At times during the Oshkosh game it seemed like the ball was snapped, and then instantly the line of scrimmage moved 3 yards forward.  Simply amazing.

I have to agree with this sentiment. That OLine was basically dominant on Saturday.

[footballfan413]

It's interesting to see how much running the QB's of the final four teams have been doing.  In the last two games, Burke of Mt has run the ball 32 times.  Bailey of MHB has run it 33 times.  O'Connell of St. T has run it 30 times and Wara has run it 31 times.

Interesting and if you remember, Matt Blanchard did the same last year.   I wonder how many are designed runs or pass/run options or just smart quarterbacks not wanting to throw into coverage and trying to make some positive yardage?

Blanchard ran (certainly more than UWW qb's this year), but not anywhere near the pace of these guys.
Good question on the whether it's designed or not. Having watched the Mt v MHB game, it seems the QB run is a built in option that is fully a part of the game plan off of either a run (option) or pass play.   Burke was terrific in making decisions and his running was devastating.

It makes me think about UWW 2013.  We saw the results of an offense that lacks a great O-Line, star running back and high quality receivers. With those players in place a running QB is not a necessity as UWW's run clearly showed. Interestingly none of the final four have a super star running back, and only Mt has a great receiving corp (UWO had only one exceptional receiver).  As for O-Lines, I haven't seen enough to really say, but I suspect they are good but not great. The running threat of the QB seems to me to be the biggest difference. If UWW can't return to the dominating O-Line and star running back, I wonder if we will see a move to a more elusive QB.

In my opinion, UST's offensive line is stellar.  They have given up 15 sacks in 14 games.  That in an offense that is prone to giving up sacks because of the roll-outs and deep drops.  They have also put a fifth string running back over a thousand yards.  More importantly though, they just seem to impose their will on the teams they face.  At times during the Oshkosh game it seemed like the ball was snapped, and then instantly the line of scrimmage moved 3 yards forward.  Simply amazing.

If they can do that against the Raiders, they have a huge shot at coming home with the Walnut and Bronze.  But the D-line must step up as well.  I know that the biggest difference for us to close the deal in 07 was to, finally, win the LOS.  Getting involved in a shoot out with the Raiders does not bode well for any opponent.  Just ask the Cru.   
  Oh, and the Tommies have to avoid the, "ESPN in the headlights," as well.  Hard to do the first time you are in Salem.  I know from experience that many of the Raider fans will try to make you all feel like interlopers.   

[hazzben]

^ As good as the Oline is, their Dline is just as good and more experienced. I'd wager UST will be able to contain the Mt. running attack if it was just Mt's Oline v. UST's. And I know that Mt has a good one.

The x factor is the way Mt. will spread UST out. They have an elite core of WR's that spread the field and make you cover in space. EDIT: *UST (Doh!) has a good group of DB's, but they haven't faced a group of WR's like Mt's yet.

And I'd agree about the 'lights.' UST is no stranger to big games after the last 3 years. But playing Mt. and playing in the Stagg Bowl are uniquely big games. It'll be interesting to see how they react, especially given their youth. I'm guessing Caruso has them ready for primetime.

[badgerwarhawk]

^ As good as the Oline is, their Dline is just as good and more experienced. I'd wager UST will be able to contain the Mt. running attack if it was just Mt's Oline v. UST's. And I know that Mt has a good one.

The x factor is the way Mt. will spread UST out. They have an elite core of WR's that spread the field and make you cover in space. Mt. has a good group of DB's, but they haven't faced a group of WR's like Mt's yet.

And I'd agree about the 'lights.' UST is no stranger to big games after the last 3 years. But playing Mt. and playing in the Stagg Bowl are uniquely big games. It'll be interesting to see how they react, especially given their youth. I'm guessing Caruso has them ready for primetime.

Fortunately for them they won't have to. 

[emma17]

It's interesting to see how much running the QB's of the final four teams have been doing.  In the last two games, Burke of Mt has run the ball 32 times.  Bailey of MHB has run it 33 times.  O'Connell of St. T has run it 30 times and Wara has run it 31 times.

Interesting and if you remember, Matt Blanchard did the same last year.   I wonder how many are designed runs or pass/run options or just smart quarterbacks not wanting to throw into coverage and trying to make some positive yardage?

Blanchard ran (certainly more than UWW qb's this year), but not anywhere near the pace of these guys.
Good question on the whether it's designed or not. Having watched the Mt v MHB game, it seems the QB run is a built in option that is fully a part of the game plan off of either a run (option) or pass play.   Burke was terrific in making decisions and his running was devastating.

It makes me think about UWW 2013.  We saw the results of an offense that lacks a great O-Line, star running back and high quality receivers. With those players in place a running QB is not a necessity as UWW's run clearly showed. Interestingly none of the final four have a super star running back, and only Mt has a great receiving corp (UWO had only one exceptional receiver).  As for O-Lines, I haven't seen enough to really say, but I suspect they are good but not great. The running threat of the QB seems to me to be the biggest difference. If UWW can't return to the dominating O-Line and star running back, I wonder if we will see a move to a more elusive QB.

In my opinion, UST's offensive line is stellar.  They have given up 15 sacks in 14 games.  That in an offense that is prone to giving up sacks because of the roll-outs and deep drops.  They have also put a fifth string running back over a thousand yards.  More importantly though, they just seem to impose their will on the teams they face.  At times during the Oshkosh game it seemed like the ball was snapped, and then instantly the line of scrimmage moved 3 yards forward.  Simply amazing.

I hope the UST line is great as that will be the surest way to have an excellent chance of beating Mt.  I don't mean any disrespect to the St T O-Line but I'm highly skeptical that an O-Line with (is it 1, 2 or 3?) freshman is great.  They may have played a "stellar" game and perhaps they've had a stellar season vs the competition played.  I love the Titan, but their defense is not one to judge the greatness of an Offensive line against. 
Again I hope I'm wrong as I truly want to see St. T have a great shot at winning, but the St T O-Line is going to see a whole different level of defensive strength, quickness and pressure on Friday night.  This will be their opportunity to prove overall greatness. 

[emma17]

It makes me think about UWW 2013. We saw the results of an offense that lacks a great O-Line, star running back and high quality receivers. With those players in place a running QB is not a necessity as UWW's run clearly showed. Interestingly none of the final four have a super star running back, and only Mt has a great receiving corp (UWO had only one exceptional receiver).  As for O-Lines, I haven't seen enough to really say, but I suspect they are good but not great. The running threat of the QB seems to me to be the biggest difference. If UWW can't return to the dominating O-Line and star running back, I wonder if we will see a move to a more elusive QB.

Speaking of UWW 2013, I've been giving next season a lot of thought. Too many questions for my comfort:

- Offensive Line (my biggest concern)
- Running Back
- Quarterback
- Defensive Line

The 2012 team had a ton of senior leadership. The 2013 season...not so much. There will be a lot of inexperience at the offensive positions I've mentioned above next year. Defense will once again be top notch, but I hope it (again) won't get wasted because of a struggling offense.

I'm right there with you 02- WAY too many questions for comfort.  Add receiver to the mix.  And honestly, the defense has proven it will reload regularly so D Line doesn't concern me.   

Rather than beating around the bush I'll just say it; if between now and 2013 kickoff the UWW offensive line, running backs and receivers (I'll leave the QB out for this point) don't improve to previous championship level, then the only chance of success is for the offensive game plan to change.  My guess is UWW will need the offensive game plan to change in order to have success in 2013.           

[footballfan413]

It makes me think about UWW 2013. We saw the results of an offense that lacks a great O-Line, star running back and high quality receivers. With those players in place a running QB is not a necessity as UWW's run clearly showed. Interestingly none of the final four have a super star running back, and only Mt has a great receiving corp (UWO had only one exceptional receiver).  As for O-Lines, I haven't seen enough to really say, but I suspect they are good but not great. The running threat of the QB seems to me to be the biggest difference. If UWW can't return to the dominating O-Line and star running back, I wonder if we will see a move to a more elusive QB.

Speaking of UWW 2013, I've been giving next season a lot of thought. Too many questions for my comfort:

- Offensive Line (my biggest concern)
- Running Back
- Quarterback
- Defensive Line

The 2012 team had a ton of senior leadership. The 2013 season...not so much. There will be a lot of inexperience at the offensive positions I've mentioned above next year. Defense will once again be top notch, but I hope it (again) won't get wasted because of a struggling offense.

I'm right there with you 02- WAY too many questions for comfort.  Add receiver to the mix.  And honestly, the defense has proven it will reload regularly so D Line doesn't concern me.   

Rather than beating around the bush I'll just say it; if between now and 2013 kickoff the UWW offensive line, running backs and receivers (I'll leave the QB out for this point) don't improve to previous championship level, then the only chance of success is for the offensive game plan to change.  My guess is UWW will need the offensive game plan to change in order to have success in 2013.         

17, you and your better half in for Friday night? 

[emma17]

It makes me think about UWW 2013. We saw the results of an offense that lacks a great O-Line, star running back and high quality receivers. With those players in place a running QB is not a necessity as UWW's run clearly showed. Interestingly none of the final four have a super star running back, and only Mt has a great receiving corp (UWO had only one exceptional receiver).  As for O-Lines, I haven't seen enough to really say, but I suspect they are good but not great. The running threat of the QB seems to me to be the biggest difference. If UWW can't return to the dominating O-Line and star running back, I wonder if we will see a move to a more elusive QB.

Speaking of UWW 2013, I've been giving next season a lot of thought. Too many questions for my comfort:

- Offensive Line (my biggest concern)
- Running Back
- Quarterback
- Defensive Line

The 2012 team had a ton of senior leadership. The 2013 season...not so much. There will be a lot of inexperience at the offensive positions I've mentioned above next year. Defense will once again be top notch, but I hope it (again) won't get wasted because of a struggling offense.

I'm right there with you 02- WAY too many questions for comfort.  Add receiver to the mix.  And honestly, the defense has proven it will reload regularly so D Line doesn't concern me.   

Rather than beating around the bush I'll just say it; if between now and 2013 kickoff the UWW offensive line, running backs and receivers (I'll leave the QB out for this point) don't improve to previous championship level, then the only chance of success is for the offensive game plan to change.  My guess is UWW will need the offensive game plan to change in order to have success in 2013.         

17, you and your better half in for Friday night?

My kids tried to pull a fast one on me (hey dad, can we have a Christmas party Friday night?).  I'm in contract negotiations with them now and I am confident the deal will get done so it's a win-win. 

[tommiegun]

I'd totally agree with all said about the Tommies O-Line - though I resent (a little) the crack about competition - the MIAC was very strong this year, top to bottom, and that showed in its non-conference slate.  But, and this is obvious, Mt. presents a whole different level of test.  I'm sure they will, by far, be the best defense St. Thomas has gone up against this year.

But, as strengths go, for St. Thomas 1(a) is the defensive front, 1(b) is the offensive front.  I will take those strengths any day of the week, and HOPEFULLY, this Friday.