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Message: [QUOTE="billsin01, post: 3100979, member: 837"] I'll take a stab at defending criticism of DeVito (and then get to posting about the actual point of the original post). Even if we throw out the notion that garbage time numbers can be dubious, I think what's deceiving about TD is this: When the play works and he steps into a throw to an open receiver, it's a thing of beauty. In fact, his being capable of doing that puts us well ahead of where we've been many times in the recent history of this program, so no one should be absolutely crushing the kid. However, when things don't go exactly according to plan, TD really, really struggles. Perhaps we're spoiled by watching Dungey do really well in this regard, but TD moves the pocket backward as his first reaction to pressure and then if he escapes outside, his improvising is nearly non-existent. Combine that with the fact that he made mental mistakes that just don't seem excusable to me (4th downs), that he is absolutely zero threat to make a play with his legs, and that -- whether by design or TD's decision-making -- we don't attack the seam/middle of the field and I think you get a concerning situation. He may be completely fine when all is said and done but I do get concerned that we're watching a kid with excellent tools but not a ton of feel for the position. I could be wrong, but I"m concerned. As far as the RBs, we pretty much abandoned the run at some point in this game (22 carries total). But in general I think it's somewhat early to judge the RBs. I don't think Neal was really an ACC level starter for the first year and a half and I never viewed strickland that way. Thought Neal really played well the second half of last year and believe he'll be OK there. Was really hoping Adams would be a stud but we haven't quite seen that yet. Really like Howard too. To me, it's just really tough build an offensive line when you're not just crushing it on the recruiting trail like a clemson or Bama, etc. How many high school kids are 6'5", can carry 300+, have long arms and quick feet? Just feel like it's a really tough chore and we made strides there last year but appear to have regressed (or been hurt by injuries ... or both) this year. Schematically it does feel like a little variety could help as well but I'm sure there is a method to that maddness and I do think spreading people out and hitting them up the middle with runs is a good, if not exactly bulletproof, strategy. [/QUOTE]

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