Re: Big concern I have is the run game
 

The O-line was never "really" run ready.
Payton was never committed to the run and therefore the
"mind to do" was never there.
All the 3rd and 1's were dead two yards deep in the backfield.
Didn't matter which back had the ball, they could never get started.
They all died early in games when there was no commitment to push
and put teams on their heels.
Opposing defenses win the line of scrimmage battle early,
then it's a hope and 2 prayers trying to convert with a two-tight-end set:
2 ton offensive line against 8 in the box and wonder why a seam can't be found in all of that meat.
Payton talked about balance but his personnel sets made him predictable.
It was obvious when he was running or throwing when he sent his packages on to the field.
I would like to see him run the ball out of the spread offensive sets.
Let our front five-six dictate the line of scrimmage.
Then there is space to operate - for the blockers and the back.
Unstack the front on 3rd and 1 and let Brees make the decision...
we're talking about Drew Brees.
I'm stuck thinking pass-happy Payton too until he shows me different.
I like Payton, but he is what he is.
Brees' success has had a lot to do with that - and I understand it.
Owning the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball is what pays dividends.
We can score with anybody, even if we don't run the ball.
Until we get to where we can get our defense off the field on 3rd and long,
27-30 points a game will end us up 8-and-8...AGAIN...
Greg Williams, Spagnuolo, Ryan...none of them played a down.
Payton has been digging for gold trying to find someone that can do what he does
on the defensive side of the ball.
And until he does, Bress may have to rack up another 5,000.