There is the run, but where is the gun?

I was chatting online with Brian Murphy of the Idaho Statesman, along with probably hundreds of others. I had a few questions, all of which he answered very well. There was one particular inquiry that I decided to research a little bit myself. The Virginia Tech Hokies bost running backs Ryan Williams, Darren Evans, and quarterback Tyrod Taylor, and all are beasts on the ground. As a freshman, Williams ran for 1,655 yards. Evans was injured but started out on pace to put up similar numbers and is considered a legitimate Heisman Trophy candidate. Taylor is an athlete and a half and can run and throw. He is the proverbial cliche dual threat quarterback.

But that got me thinking, who does he have to throw the ball to? I have not heard anything about their receivers, just the rushing attack. I went on Virginia Tech's football website and looked at their roster. They do not have anybody officially listed as a WR (wide receiver). There are a few tight ends but that is it. Taylor had 2,311 passing yards last season and there is no way he got all of them from tight ends! In fact, his passing yards doubled from 2008 to 2009. So let me try and break it down; Jarrett Boykin led the team with 40 receptions for 835 yards, Danny Coale was second with 30 for 614. Dyrell Roberts with 22 for 390, Ryan Williams (running back) with 16 for 180, Xavier Boyce with 8 for 88, and 6 others totaling 21 catches for 284 yards. That totals 2,391 yards for the team. Compare that to Boise State Kellen Moore who alone threw for 3,536 yards. The Broncos finished with 2,606 yards on the ground. Compared to 2,706 by the Hokies, they aren't that far ahead. So the Hokie offense does seem fairly balanced, while the Broncos are pass happy, but get it done on the ground as well. Advantage Broncos.

My conclusion is this; the media focuses on Ryan Williams and Darren Evans for a reason. They are too good to even describe. Just watch some highlight of Williams here and Evans here, with a combined video right here (watch Evans truck some tool from Maryland at second mark 29. It' sick!). But don't overlook Tyrod Taylor and his arm, even if he throws to players who aren't even talked about. The running game is that dominant. If Boise State can at least contain the double-headed rushing monster, then their defensive backs can focus on their job and shut down Virginia Tech. The Hokies' biggest question is on defense, and I don't think they will be able to stop Boise State very often. Bronco fans are hoping it doesn't turn into a shootout a la Nevada in 2007, but rather they keep it looking like the Oregon game in 2009, maybe with a few more points from the Broncos mixed in. All in all, it should be a fantastic game and there is no better way to start the season!