Will Toledo be able to stop our Running Game?

BryceC

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I noticed Toledo had a pretty good rush defense last year, only giving up 126.4 rush yards per game. They run a 3-4 defense with solid size among their front three, but their linebackers only average 213 pounds, with nobody over 220.

I don't really know how ISU is going to attack the defense from a rushing standpoint, but it just seems like our players will have so much more size when you count our massive offensive line, Kock, and Hicks weighing in about the same as these linebackers. Their strong safety also only weighs 184 unless they start true freshman Barry Church.

Does anybody have any ideas as to how ISU will attack this defense or why they had so much success against the run with a small unit? Do they run a lot of different looks from this 3-4 to fill gaps?
 

ISUFan22

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The 3-4 defense, when run correctly, is one that traditionally does well against the run. My Cowboys implemented it last year and faired pretty well. So far in pre-season for this year...they're doing even better now having even better personnel to run the 3-4.

I would assume ISU would spread the field more with 3 and 4 wide sets...causing Toledo to move to a 3-3 (doubtful) or switch back to a 4-3 that would actually be a 4-2 with an extra corner. I beg them to stick in the 3-4 against us when we try to throw the ball!

On the running game...when we've got 'em spread and in a 4-2...hit 'em with quick runs when they're expecting the pass.

ISU definitely has the firepower to get it done...as long as they're a bit creative.

Oh...I'd look for Scales tomorrow night too. Rumor is that he will play...maybe even at #2 ahead of Josh Johnson.
 

AirWalke

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Oh...I'd look for Scales tomorrow night too. Rumor is that he will play...maybe even at #2 ahead of Josh Johnson.

As much as I like Scales, I really want to see what all the Josh Johnson fuss is about. Maybe we'll see three RBs in action on Thursday. :)
 

keepngoal

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The 3-4 defense, when run correctly, is one that traditionally does well against the run.
i agree completely but also add, when you also have the correct personell, as you stated earlier.

The thing that scares me the most is the complex rushing/blitzing combos a 3-4 is able to do.

But, like all games this year, if we can mix it up and open the playbook to keep defenses guessing, we will be very, VERY, successful on the offensive side. More so than I am currently hoping for.

- keep.
 

melt

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The problem with looking at Toledo's stats is that they play in the MAC. That sort of competition is pretty easy to defend. Toledo lost three times last year, to Fresno State, Northern Illinois and Central Michigan. CMU rushed for 160 yards that game, and NIU and FSU both ran for more than that. Toledo had two or three games where they kept the opponent to double digit rushing numbers, bringing that average down. I'd say as long as ISU can rush for 150 yards, they'll win the game, and that shouldn't be too hard to do with everyone healthy.
 

Wesley

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The way to attack their run defense is to fake to Stevie and dump the pass to the tight end. Whoops, all three of top three tightends are dinged up. Ok, do a double reverse with a receiver on the the second play from scrimmage. Get the four linebackers going the wrong way right at start of game and make them worry about overrunning in their enthusiasm. I would think drawplays or screens would not work.
 
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Steve

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Rushing stats can be so misleading due to inclusion of sacks, QB sneaks, and short yardage situations. I prefer to look at what the opponent's feature back does. Last year Toledo allowed 5 individual backs to rush for 106 yards or more. The average feature back against Toledo last year ran for 94 yards on 20 carries or 4.7 ypc. The Clones should be in good shape if either Hicks, Scales, or Johnson puts up numbers similar to this.
 

ISUFan22

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Rushing stats can be so misleading due to inclusion of sacks, QB sneaks, and short yardage situations. I prefer to look at what the opponent's feature back does. Last year Toledo allowed 5 individual backs to rush for 106 yards or more. The average feature back against Toledo last year ran for 94 yards on 20 carries or 4.7 ypc. The Clones should be in good shape if either Hicks, Scales, or Johnson puts up numbers similar to this.

I like it! :Guns: