1) Kelly has to let them run, 2) book has to stay in pocket
by Btd (2019-10-20 13:19:48)

In reply to: We have to win the line of scrimmage on both sides of the  posted by ndbob79


That’s really what this game comes down to.

1) even against USC where we ran well, the only reason we didn’t win by 21 is because on consecutive drives in the second half Kelly didn’t run the ball on second and 3. Even though we had 100% total domination established simply running straight at them. He went away from it and it cost us 4 points each drive. I say we would have won by 21 because TDs on either of those drives would have broken their will to fight.

The same will exist at Michigan. We will be able to rub at will if Kelly allows it and then also takes the first down over the desire for a quick score - every single time. Always, always, always opt to move the chains on second and short versus throw.

2) if Book panics under the illusion of pressure - this game will come to the wire and be a tossup win or loss.

If Book stands in the pocket and throws versus abandoning the play 1.5 seconds early, we will win this game by 21-28 points because we will absolutely eat them alive passing on top of our ability to run. PSU had zero offense in reality. ND has a much better overall passing game - but only if Book will stand and throw v panic and run.

Michigan knows he tends to panic. They will run blitz a lot and use that to create the illusion of middle pressure. If it works to panic him - long day. If he stands and throws early - long day for Michigan. Especially since once they can’t run blitz the run will also eat them alive.