Statistical Observation

[GP1]

In order to win football games, a team must have a balanced attack with about 50% run and 50% pass. A concern I have about the game last week was the lack of a balanced attack. In total, the Zips ran 28 times for 39% of the plays. They ran 45 times for 61% of the plays. One might say they threw so much because they had to pass in the fourth to catch up. Upon close examination, the lack of balance took place for the first three quarters as well and mostly in the second quarter.In the first quarter, the Zips ran 8 times and passed 8 times. That is great balanceIn the second quarter, the Zips ran 5 times and passed 18 times. 22% run vs. 78% pass. While it may not always seem like it, this is the secret recipe for losing. Sidebar.........Look no further than the Owens years when he sealed his fate by passing 70% of the time his last year when he had a more than competent running attach to make games shorter and control the clock. Frye was never a Limpwich or Roethlisberger who could win games on his own. However, he may have been able to do more had Owens relied less on him and more on a balanced, team approach to the offense.In the third quarter, the Zips ran 11 times and passed 8 times. 58% run vs. 42% pass.Through the first three quarters, the Zips ran 41% of the time. Only 2% above the game total of 39%.By halftime, BSU had seen 26 passing plays which probably covered all the plays the Zips brought to the game. It is easy to adjust when you have seen the other team's plays by halftime. No surprises in the second half.Guys, balance, balance, balance and more balance. Balance is the key to a lesser team beating a better team because they keep the other guys off guard and control the game/clock. The Zips need better balance this week.