First off, everybody needs to settle down. There isn't much doubt that AA is not the prototypical QB for Herman's system His ability to not execute some very easy throws pretty much proves it. Same for Tiller. But you know what? If you're given lemons, you make lemonade. If you're given oranges, you make orange juice. We still have a very capable QB who can really pound the rock, and there are a few very significant things which will improve his passing production next year:
#1. Another year in the system. Less thinking, more reacting. He will see things quicker.
#2 Improvement in the O-line speed. To this point, the direction of the O-line is one of the least talked about things on this board. When Rhoads first got here, our line was too bulky and slow for Herman's system. There wasn't enough time to slim them down without giving up strength for this season so they kept them where they were. Look for them to be lighter, have better footwork, and be much quicker next year.
3. Improvement in O-line execution. It has been said that Herman's blocking schemes are very complicated compared to other systems. Another year, better execution.
4. More team speed at the receiver position. We haven't exactly been stellar at creating seperation, and losing Money early in the season lost us the guy with the biggest playmaking potential. More speed and better route running makes more open receivers and the QB's job much easier. Giving Lenz and Williams another year in the system doesn't hurt either.
The staff has put game plans together which give us the best chance of winning. Our defense focuses on keeping plays in front of them and trying to create turnovers. This focus won the games last night and also in Lincoln. Our offense focuses on running the ball, sustaining drives, and eating clock to keep the defense off the field. And even inspite of our inability to put points on the board at times, they've still been successful in making things easier on our defense.
As we develop our personnel, the game plan will change. For now, I'm VERY happy with who we got, and the direction of where we're going.
Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day. The next decade of Cyclone Football is going to be a fun one to watch and be a part of.