Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Can Larry Smith stay in the pocket against LSU? Can the Vandy receivers get open?

Bobby Johnson said he planned to run the quarterback less this season. So what's with Larry Smith carrying 16 times against Western Carolina?

After the game, Larry said he ran a lot on passing plays because the receivers were covered. He sure didn't blame the offensive line.

Hmmm. So if the receivers were covered against the Catamounts, imagine what's gonna happen to them in Baton Rouge.

Which raises two questions:

Is Larry too eager to do what he did in high school, which was to take off running?

Or are his receivers — the big question mark on this team — really that inept?

Or maybe Larry and his receivers are just working out the kinks in their timing and they'll come around on Saturday.

Nobody doubts that our tight ends are talented, but how big a role will they play in Saturday's game?

What do you think?

7 comments:

Anonymous said...

I think the tight ends will play a huge role Saturday. So, was Larry really quick to take off running in high school? I hadn't heard that about him.

DIMON KENDRICK-HOLMES said...

I never saw Larry play in high school but ESPN's evaluation said "he reminds us of current Vandy QB Chris Nixson (sic) only Smith is much more imposing in terms of stature and is more likley (sic) to make more plays with his legs." OK, so they couldn't spell.

Anyway, what I meant was that in high school Larry was a dangerous runner and was known for punishing tacklers, something he better not try too often in Baton Rouge. But unlike Nickson, he's got a dangerous arm. I'm looking forward to the game. Are you going?

Anything but Gatorade said...

I haven't looked at the numbers, but I'd love to know how many catches the WRs made on Saturday compared to backs and tight ends. I hardly saw one throw to the edges in the first half that was caught.

Scott Reed said...

I think you will see a little more of the offense on Saturday. They didn't have to really open it up for WCU, and didn't want to show too much for LSU to prepare for. I think this is going to be a lot closer than people think.

DIMON KENDRICK-HOLMES said...

I agree with you, Scott. The Dores haven't opened the offensive tool box yet. And I think this one will be close.

Jay F said...

I wish I was going. I really expect us to go toe to toe with those guys. BTW, I read you every day. Outstanding job covering VU!! Thanks

DIMON KENDRICK-HOLMES said...

Thanks for reading, Jay.