Cleaning up the little things

[Frank Lee]

Based on observations over the past few years, especially as they pertain to big games, a few consistent weaknesses need to be addressed IMO. It would help reduce those "what the heck was that?!" comments. Anyway, my list...
On Offense...
1. Not picking up a first down or TD with less than a yard to go. Getting stacked up or dropped in the backfield. With this OL and RB tandem (and a little deception), they should be able to convert 95% of the time, and 90% of the time from two yards out. Pound away. They need to be bullies.
2. Third and short passes that are completed one or two yards short the first down marker. Unless the receiver is wide open, these typically result in a punt.
On Defense...
1. Not being lights out on the first series.
2. Giving up those 3rd and 17 conversions, particularly by marginal QBs.

 

[Sheriff Coffee]

This offense is deep, experienced, and strong at every single position except WR. But these WR's performed well in different programs, so we'll see how they do under coach K. This is probably the best offense in PSU history with the only rival being the 94 team.

The defense looks good with some thinness at LBer and DT. But should be solid up and down the line.

We have two great coordinators in Coach K and Coach K. Can Coach K utilize the WRs? Maybe we just run it like UM did. He'll have so many options it will be interesting to see if he finds a specific personality and drives it home. I am a little concerned that he tries to keep everyone involved and loses the opportunity to just shove the ball down the opposition's throat when he sees a strategic advantage.

The Defense coach K is new. Can he teach his new D without a drop off? Can he learn how to leverage the new talent that he didn't develop and grow up with? Going head-to-head with tOSU, they have two NEW coordinators (Chip Kelly is back in the NFL in Vegas and Knowles is coaching for us).

 

[RickinDayton]

Based on observations over the past few years, especially as they pertain to big games, a few consistent weaknesses need to be addressed IMO. It would help reduce those "what the heck was that?!" comments. Anyway, my list...
On Offense...
1. Not picking up a first down or TD with less than a yard to go. Getting stacked up or dropped in the backfield. With this OL and RB tandem (and a little deception), they should be able to convert 95% of the time, and 90% of the time from two yards out. Pound away. They need to be bullies.
2. Third and short passes that are completed one or two yards short the first down marker. Unless the receiver is wide open, these typically result in a punt.
On Defense...
1. Not being lights out on the first series.
2. Giving up those 3rd and 17 conversions, particularly by marginal QBs.

Yep. These are the differences between a contender and a champion.