Vlyrock
04-29-2005, 12:23 AM
Of the problems surrounding the SMU football program, fixing the running game is a top priority.
Last season, backup quarterback Jerad Romo led the team in rushing with 434 yards. It was the first time since 1994 that a quarterback had led the team in rushing.
Romo's yards were the fewest for a Mustangs leading rusher since Kevin Love gained 423 yards in 1989.
Coach Phil Bennett said if the spread offense is going to work in 2005, a strong running game is a must.
After spring practice, it appears the Mustangs have the needed depth at the position.
"I'd like to have a featured guy," Bennett said. "I don't want to depend on the quarterback run game like last year. When we get a good running game, it opens the lanes for our throwing game."
SMU finished 88th nationally in rushing at 125.18 yards a game. It was the fewest yards per game since 2000, when SMU averaged 115.8.
To fix that problem, Bennett has Cedrick Dorsey and Richuel Massey at the head of the depth chart at running back. Dorsey, who played with a bruised thigh last season, rushed 87 times for 431 yards and two touchdowns. Dorsey came into the spring in better shape. He went from his freshman playing weight of 206 pounds to 190. The weight loss has added speed and elusiveness to his game.
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/colleges/topstories/stories/042805dnsposmulede.53161610.html
Last season, backup quarterback Jerad Romo led the team in rushing with 434 yards. It was the first time since 1994 that a quarterback had led the team in rushing.
Romo's yards were the fewest for a Mustangs leading rusher since Kevin Love gained 423 yards in 1989.
Coach Phil Bennett said if the spread offense is going to work in 2005, a strong running game is a must.
After spring practice, it appears the Mustangs have the needed depth at the position.
"I'd like to have a featured guy," Bennett said. "I don't want to depend on the quarterback run game like last year. When we get a good running game, it opens the lanes for our throwing game."
SMU finished 88th nationally in rushing at 125.18 yards a game. It was the fewest yards per game since 2000, when SMU averaged 115.8.
To fix that problem, Bennett has Cedrick Dorsey and Richuel Massey at the head of the depth chart at running back. Dorsey, who played with a bruised thigh last season, rushed 87 times for 431 yards and two touchdowns. Dorsey came into the spring in better shape. He went from his freshman playing weight of 206 pounds to 190. The weight loss has added speed and elusiveness to his game.
http://www.dallasnews.com/sharedcontent/dws/spt/colleges/topstories/stories/042805dnsposmulede.53161610.html