Everything is relative. Last year if we had some experience coming back with a returning starter, we might have been in decent shape. As it was we had no experience and a new system and started and overworked a red-shirt freshman. In spite of that McCombs did an outstanding job in running the ball for us. This year we have a definite proven talent in McCombs and the possibility of one or two additional backs who can provide a different look in Williams and possibly Delorenzo or Hyppolite. I will be interested to see how well the new guys run the ball, catch the ball and block on passing plays. I believe we have more talent and also have enhanced the existing talent with experience, so there will be an uptick in the position. I don't think we will have to utilize McCombs quite as much as last year and in doing that we should be able to be less predictable and more productive. People have mentioned here before that our offensive schemes were successful in getting people open for big plays but that the plays broke down for one reason or another, offensive line issues, QB lack of mobility, poor passing, etc. I'm not sure all of those things will clear up overnight, but we should be able to mount an even more effective running attack and also add a moderately effective passing attack. We don't have to be great in the passing game to have a very substantial effect on our overall offense. It just has to hold it's own and not turn it over and make regular plays on downs we need to like every other D1 team. Having an even more solid running attack will allow it to develop. I'm also interested to see what develops with the fullback position and if we can make some improvement there. It would be nice to see that position be a weapon for us like in the past. I always favor competition and also favor giving close competitors a share in the playing time if that can be done effectively. We have done that in the past and other teams have done it as well. I don't like the approach of riding the one horse and letting the other ride the pine unless it clearly hurts the team to play both. Can't wait to see the new guys in game action. In prior seasons, I have fallen for the hype and made assumptions that were unrealistic. This year, I'm cautiously optimistic about being improved as a team and having more and better resources to work with. I don't know who will eventually lock down the key skill positions but feel that we have more and better resources to work with. We'll see...
