I too think that the short passing game is a lot more important to a team's success than the long ball. The problem is that you need the threat of the long ball to help open up the short pass. And the run, for that matter. A team that is not a threat to go deep invites teams to run press coverage and/or crowd the line of scrimmage.
Very true. I'm thinking a 25-30 yarder is sufficiently long to do that. Apparently that's close to Hatch's limit. But if he can hit that (so to speak), then perhaps we're fine regardless of who steps up.
True, but I still say that perhaps with fewer defenders deep Hatch will be more comfortable with throwing it and find some success. One or two when they start pinching would suffice...just to know it's THERE would be enough to keep a defense honest regardless of whether or not it's a viable threat.
Ok just to give everyone a refresher. The coaches are saying his arm is stronger since the Spring as well. I think this is about all he needs to keep the defense honest. [media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W6BDcJ4WvHw[/media]
The last play of the video is about a 43-yarder...a tight spiral, over the defenders and dropped right in front of the receiver. Lee may be better, but Hatch is obviously capable. And his arm has gotten stronger? I think we'll be fine. Case closed.
I agree. That pass was plenty deep enough to keep any defense honest, and it had touch on it. He placed it right on the money. Even more exciting to me though, the quick out to Lafell, and the pass to DByrd...well, just the fact that DByrd wears P&G puts my mind at ease. Dude is slippery...but his hands are not.
