So will Payton finally start using the run game?
 

Did he finally adjust? Liked the run game today. Is he convinced running the ball has merit if you don't give up on it or will he revert back to airing it out if we get more than 3 points behind?

Re: So will Payton finally start using the run game?
 

A big part in that is that we weren't down 2 scores the whole time. But also, the o-line looked better and more in sync today. There were holes o run trough.

Re: So will Payton finally start using the run game?
 

I think it was more he quit worrying bout everyone getting there touches. Started with Ingram, with a little Peterson here and there and a cpl totes for the rookie. Seemed like a good mix to me.

Re: So will Payton finally start using the run game?
 

Who opened the holes? I thought without Strief our o-line was decimated.

Re: So will Payton finally start using the run game?
 

It is decimated but its not like the backups are completely useless.

Re: So will Payton finally start using the run game?
 

ok the saints found a mix on the OL that appears to work but it is only one game. So let us keep testing it.

I was happy to see it and been beating the drum to use the run to set up pass for a long time. Especially with all the new faces/

Gelling time is less in the running game and a great way to build confidence

Re: So will Payton finally start using the run game?
 

The big difference was when and how the running game was used. In the first two games he tried to establish the run early and it was just what was expected. They finally abandoned the run once the Saints fell behind. In the Carolina game they used the pass early to set up the run. That has been the formula for success in the past.

Re: So will Payton finally start using the run game?
 

I saw it as the other way around. I felt it was the pass setting up the run. It started out with a six yard pass to set up a makeable running 1st down. the 1st drive was made up of seven passes and six runs including the TD pass to Thomas. Our strength is the short passing game. When used it softens up the front and opens up the running game. Our offense has always run the best when the opponent has to respect the pass.

Seven of our next eight plays were pass plays including the TD pass to Coleman. Five of the next eight plays were runs setting up the FG at the half. Then the second half was led off by an eight play 75 yard TD drive with five passes (68 yards) and three running plays (7 yards) including the 40 bomb to Ginn.

The success in the short and intermediate passing game led to the later success of the run.

At least that's the way I saw it.

Re: So will Payton finally start using the run game?
 

Doubtful. Even though I really like Peterson and Kamara, the only time Ingram needs to come out is when he takes himself out. The guy does it all. The offense would be less predictable. Win win.

As far as the O-Line, it looked great against an imposing front seven of the Panthers. If they continue to improve as they did between weeks two and three, I feel real good about them. Kelemente was over-matched a couple times yesterday. But, the dude competes.

Re: So will Payton finally start using the run game?
 

I noted it in the game day thread on yesterday ... the running lanes were there most of the game. Ingram took advantage of the crease.

Side note - Adrian Peterson may no longer have the top end speed as he once had, but he was punishing defensive backs yesterday. Strong guy. The ground and pound attack may prove vital come November/December playoff "push".