PFF grades week 1

[*SHRacerX*]

(09-13-2021, 03:41 PM)Frank Booth Wrote: I’m gonna go back and watch the game but I’m pretty sure all of Mixon’s big runs came in 1st/2nd and 10 situations and longer.

Very unsuccessful with the 3rd and short type runs

Which would mean that run game isn’t as good as it should be

I have been going back and forth with a buddy on this exact subject.  In short yardage, when the opponent knows what you are likely to do, you have two choices to convert:  have the power in your run game to move them for a yard and have your RB pound it inside to move the chains, or fool them with something misdirection, an outside toss, or a pass.  

The first choice is the safest, as you know the snap count and the opponent doesn't (if on the road, that advantage can be negated with crowd noise forcing a silent count), but it also takes a yeoman's job to execute and one missed block or assignment likely gets the play blown up.

The latter choice is much more common, but defenses are so good today in terms of speed and following the ball, that these sort of "gimmicky" approaches often end up in a huge loss.  See the Bills pass-back on 4th and short.  What the HELL was that???

The bottom line is:  If the other team is selling out against a short yardage run, even a QB sneak might not work for the half yard or so. This happened to the Raiders in that MNF game.  Carr tried to sneak it in from the one, but was stuffed after about half a yard.  Instead of doing the logical thing and sneaking it again, they attempted a pass that was tipped and intercepted. 

They still won the game when Lamar fumbled (again), but you get my point. 

I will add that Mixon is not a great short yardage back, and Perine is probably more suited for that role.  Tips your hand a bit, but still....