Without a doubt, we need to be more productive offensively. We need to average 38 tp 42 points per game scoring and hold our opponents to under 20. Rushing yards gain are worth about twice as much in productive value as passing yards so if we are to gain 300 yards rushing and 150 passing, we would be much more likely to win the game than if we had 300 yards passing and 150 yards rushing. I always felt a good rule of thumb was to say that the first 150 yards of each didn't count for much as a team with under 300 yards of total offense loses about 90% of the time. Teams that pass for 400 yards win a majority of the time no doubt but teams that rush 400 yards win almost always! These basics seem to me to be true in all parts of the country, although I would venture a guess that rushing yards are more valuable than passing yards in outdoor stadiums where weather (wind, rain, snow, cold, wet, etc) factors in to a greater degree. But the team that runs the ball the best wins most of the games, no matter what the offensive scheme or style. In my opinion and I believe the statistics would give strong evidence of this. I don't Riley dislikes running the ball per se but has found over the years that it is easier to assemble a team with some offensive capability with less talent in the passing game. Strong running takes strong, dominant line play whereas short quick passes can be thrown around with minimal offensive line play. One might not win but at least one can gain some first downs and score a two or three TDs a game. also, a good thrower and couple quick and shifty receivers can provide some entertaining football plays for the crowd.
