29 Rushes
 

It's a simple stat...
In 2012,we ran the ball 29 or more times... twice.
Both wins.
home vs. Atlanta and at Dallas.

I don't think we ran the ball well against Atlanta, but for the first time in a while I feel like we made an effort to try.

Re: 29 Rushes
 

I think the Falcons defense up front is good vs the Run, I also believe those 4-5 yard gains are huge IMO, I believe the fact you are committed to the run those many times translates into keeping a defense honest even if you dont gain big yards at the end of the day. I think the Falcons defense was on their toes at both phases in the game.

Re: 29 Rushes
 

Absolutely spot on. We remained committed to the running game and it paid dividends. Brees's stat line was far more sensible. We need to keep doing this week in and week out. The running game will improve and so will the passing game it opens up.

If our O-line can just notch it up a bit and do a slightly better job of protection and forging the gaps then we are in big business.

Re: 29 Rushes
 

:bng::bng:
True Dat!:bng:

Re: 29 Rushes
 

Sometimes it's not about the yards, but the respect given knowing we are committed to the run. It holds the safeties and does wonders for our play action passes.

Re: 29 Rushes
 

agreed. and even when we cant run the ball we must involve the backs in the passing game on screens, flats, wheels and curls. gotta make these throws and run the ball to keep graham and moore and colston in single coverage or with some space in zones

Re: 29 Rushes
 

EXACTLY...Without respect for the Run, Play-Action Pass is just Pass...

Plus, you should reward your offensive linemen and allow them to beat up on their defense even if you only get two yards, there is a cumulative effect...

The best facet of a good defense is its own offense's run game - Time of Possession, Controlling the Clock, Dictating the Game Pace...Keeping the opposition out of rhythm...

Re: 29 Rushes
 

The Saints had the ball 10 minutes more than the bird droppings.

Re: 29 Rushes
 

Thats all they needed.

Re: 29 Rushes
 

NFL is about match ups... When the defensive backfield for Atlanta is full of rookies and second stringers you capitalize on that. It is smart football.