First of all, we did bring in three TEs, one of whom I believe may redshirt in Karner, but that's just a guess by the numbers and him needing to beef up a little. Secondly, we have to look at Coach Klein's history in utilizing TEs/HBs in his offense. Here's why I think they'll be key to both our running and passing offense...
- Numbers Game - Modern offenses are all about outnumbering defenses on one side of the formation or the other. It's really not a new concept. It's just packaged or disguised differently with formations, personnel groupings, or motion designed to confuse defenses into being overmatched in a particular area.
- TEs/HBs Will Be Attack Pieces - The way Coach Klein will use TEs, I believe, will be crucial to both our running and passing attacks. I think we'll see a lot of 12 personnel, and that means two TEs, but that could be running or passing in this offense from what I've see historically. Regardless of what formation, TEs will have to be able to lead block, especially on the edge, whether it's DEs, LBs or DBs, and they'll probably also do some "wham" blocking up inside on some DTs. They'll also have to be able to catch the ball. The H Back at KSU would block, block, block, then slip out up the seam and just hammer opponents who forgot about him.
- Talented Receivers - We have more "Jimmys" than Coach Klein is used to having. When Green gets back to full health, I believe he, Platt, Miller & Watson can be a very solid starting corps for the staff to start drawing up some very nice plays in the dirt. That includes getting them deep some and in the modern game I think that's pretty important. We really want that threat where we can have our TEs making those safeties or corners make a choice about who to cover, and that will really open the rest of our passing game.
