Syracuse Fan - weighing in
Hey Gophers - reading a lot here about blitzing, stuffing the run, forcing Paulus to pass and make quick decisions. Here's what we know about this year's team, based on feedback from the players, coaches and media because we haven't seen a lot, as practices have been closed. First point to counter - our running backs are the strength of our offense. They are talented, have differing styles - they can all catch and run out of the backfield. Granted, a previously weak O-Line has to create holes, but some of our guys can make their own yardage. Marrone is an O-lineman and is bound to make this group better. They have been together for a while and should start producing.
Regarding Paulus and his performance. Again, they haven't shown us much, but the kid is impressive from a poise, maturity and Football IQ perspective. He definitely has the physical skills. How quickly he can brush off the rust, is key. Our offensive coordinator said at the beginning of the year that he's installing an offense that would best be run by a point guard. This was before Paulus was thinking about getting back into football. We're creating an offense with multiple looks and quick reads. The word is that Paulus is eating up everything he's being fed in the play book and executing well. If you blitz all day - we will likely run quick trap runs, draws, screens, quick slants...etc. We have one NFL-bound receiver and an excellent tight end. We also have a number of solid back-up receivers....including a very talented true freshman. This group may not be stars, but they are playmakers, nonetheless.
Our biggest weakness will be the defense, outside of the D-line. If our offense is unable to stay on the field for long, we're in for a long day.
Final comment - looks like we're going to have a sellout for the first time in years. The fans are very pumped and excited. It will be EXTREMELY loud in the Dome. It will be very uncomfortable and humid...no air conditioning. The coach has purposely been pounding the team in practice in the dome for the past month so they can out last visitors in the 4th quarter.
Looking for a great game - believe in my heart that we'll win. My head says, wish we were playing Montana State, to begin the season to give the coach, players and Paulus one game to warm up. I am confident, that win or lose - we're going to be very competitive and the Gophers will go home respecting the Orange.