Subtle Running Back Shuffle

[JoeRedskin]

Originally Posted by SmootSmack

I get that Royster has struggled this year in his limited opportunities, and I suppose they have their reasons for feeling neither Ryan Grant nor Steve Slaton belong on the roster.

But I don't want to see Morris worn out, not just for the rest of this season, but long term. He averaged around 20 yards a carry in college. Which I think is around where he's at right now, but that's just 12 games a year. Including preseason he's already surpassed that

I get that - particularly as to the long term. Again, it is my hope that they will be cognizant of the fact that he is a rookie and that he needs to be spelled on occasion. At the same time, I am firm believer in continuity. As long as they don't overwork him, being in on 3rd downs (I think) helps both him and the team on first and second down.

As Morris gets experience in obvious passing situations, it will help his pass blocking on 1st and 2nd down and, as gets in game experience as an outlet and/or receiver, it will increase the teams flexibility on early downs. Plus, on those 3rd downs which it is a guessing game (3rd and 2-4ish) as to pass v. run, it is less of an indicator if we leave him in as opposed to subbing him out for a pass catching/blocking back.

It's about using him wisely. Hopefully, MS and KS do that.