More Reason for Excitement...

[Rambler09]

One thing that hasn't been discussed as much as it was last year is the potential for Kelly to run a really high tempo offense. It seemed that last year this was discussed to no- our superior conditioning, the other team's defense's resulting exhaustion, and their inability to get set between plays. No one thought that he would be Chip Kelly, but this was a frequent topic of conversation. I think it's another reason to be excited about this year.

Something else that hasn't so much been discussed directly (maybe implied) is the advantage that comes in with Kelly's next-man-in philosophy. It isn't just about having quality backups in case the starter gets injured, it's about having 'fresh' players on the field for every play. As the game wears on, I imagine this will be especially beneficial in the trenches. Can you imagine Charlie Weis discussing a 5-man receiving rotation? If I remember correctly, starters were starters for Charlie. Keeping fresh men on the field wasn't emphasized by Weis the way that it is by Kelly. I think that this will give us an edge- especially late in the game- that should give us reason to be excited.

 

[Buster Bluth]

I think we will be surprised at how much yardage Kelly's offense produces this year. We've been so enamored with the defensive front seven that we have almost forgotten that Kelly, well, knows what he's doing on offense.

YEAR - PASS YDS/RUSH YDS (RECORD)
2010 - 3300 / 1650 (8-5)

2009 - 4000 / 1800 (12-0)
2008 - 3550 / 1650 (11-3)
2007 - 3700 / 1900 (10-3)

2006 - 3450 / 1800 (9-3)
2005 - 2850 / 1750 (6-5)
2004 - 1850 / 1900 (4-7)

With the people he has returning, this offense is going to go from above average to good, at a minimum. I think the 3700/1900 is a good bet for this team.

 

[RDU Irish]

I'm so excited about the defense, I think we should punt on first down.

However, since that will never happen, I think Kelly's style of offense really pressures opposing defenses. It can be potent with mediocre players and I am curious to see how good it can get with above average talent. I expect Dayne will put up some gaudy numbers, spreading the rock all over the field. Every eligible receiver will be a threat and our running game will compliment the passing game wonderfully. I'm just worried they will get tired since our defense will obviously be three and out all of the time.

 

[Black Irish]

I like the idea of changing the offensive formation around and forcing opposing defenses to deal with a number of different looks. I've always thought offenses should tweak their line-up to deal with a given situation, within reason. Add/remove a back or end depending on how your offense is performing against a particular defense. That may not be exactly what is being discussed here, but I like the general idea.