Quote:
Originally Posted by GTripp0012
You say that Brunells limitations are what make him a small-role player in the offense. But the offense itself on the surface appears to be unchanged. Therefore the QB role would be the same whether or not it is him or someone else. It is certainly not Brunell that makes the system. You drew up the point that his limitations make him a small role player to cover the gap in your belief that his stats are 100% product of system. I just can't see anyway that's probable, so I pointed that out. You stat it as if it was fact...but in reality I don't think its an even realistic statement.
That's the problem though. Without statistics, it's going to be my word vs your word.
|
well that's a pig part of what a discussion forum is. opinions and observations. as long as you recognize that stats aren't the final word on football you and i are good. and if you say they are still the best we have, then i'll begrudingly agree and just point to the most meaningful stat of them all. 3-5.
you've now opined yourself about Brunell's throwing ability and quick checkdowns. i argue that last week, Brunell put himself in a *bigger role in this offense* by not checking down so much, and throwing to his primary receivers downfield. so while his previous dump-offs to Ladell may have resulted in the same amount of NET yards, the KINDS of passes thrown are vitally important and have a bigger impact to the whole team and ultimately the final results of the game.
Brunell's shots downfield, made Dallas's defense cover the whole field, and allowed Portis more attempts (if not YPC). also, to Rat's point, Brunell's confidence 'energized' the offense. Lloyd's emotional block on the Portis run is a good example. Lloyd just may not have hit that guy so hard, if he hadn't gotten those passes thrown to him earlier in the game and felt involved. it's not a secret Lloyd didn't feel involved enough in this offense, net yards and offensive 'efficiency' be damned.
i'd also argue that seeing Brunell attacking the defense would even energize OUR defense. it's remarkable how leadership builds momentum, and when one part of the team suddenly starts fighting its guts out (vs safely collecting yards allowed to them) i'd dare say it motivates everyone on the team. thats why i remarked earlier that football is a game of emotion (is there a stat for 'momentum' - do you agree it exists?). anyway that's all opinion, no stats, but still worth saying. in my opinion.
