Offensive line problem in red zone??
Posted: Thu Oct 08, 2009 4:09 pm
Is the offensive line the problem in the red zone or is it the play calling. I am beginning to think it is the line that causes an inability to score in the red zone. Hypothesis: in theory the o-line doesn't have to pass protect as long when the ball is in the middle of the field because there is a greater opportunity to make LB's and DB's to take deeper drops. Thus allowing short, intermediate, and deep routes to be run and check downs are more difficult to defend due to the length of the field the defense has to cover. Although in the red zone patterns are shorter and reads in theory should be quicker, the line has to sustain blocks longer because the pocket is condensed and the ability to step is shortened. Also, in the run game lineman have to sustain blocks longer because the field is shorter and LB's fill faster because their drops are shorter. In my opinion it is totally the offensive lines fault why the Skins fail in the red zone. The failures are due to poor communication, not sustaining blocks, and formations (I know that is coaching), but if offense is in a power formation it is much easier to identify defense because they line-up according to the offensive formation. I know this is long, but if the o-line does not improve in the red zone it doesn't make a difference what play is called or who is running the play. Hopefully, the can get a win in a tough place to play against a team that will play with urgency.