I like how we opened up the defense schematically after the first drive. Blitzes were complex and came from everywhere and yet, were executed quite well. They were effective against the run as well as the pass. We got into their backfield and disrupted the flow of their plays just enough to affect outcomes. In truth, I haven't seen it like that in quite a while. The grand total of 1 sack doesn't tell the story. After drive 1, I think they averaged under 2 yds per rushing attempt the rest of the way. That's good stuff.
They were a tough opponent in the trenches and yet, we got the better of the interior work on both sides of the ball. We may have had to use numbers on defense to do it, but our cover guys held up while alone on the island. Both OL and DL have improved with the use of their hands and getting leverage with their lower half. That was good looking stuff out there.
It has been a while since I have seen organized play, while at the same time showing a true mean streak across the board. For the first time in ages, I feel the level of effort on the field has actually matched the words that were coming out of coaches and players mouthes during camp.
In short, our program is developing integrity and credibility. One game does not make a season, but I sure like what I saw today.
