Miami Hurricanes need RBs to move chains in passing game

Much ado has been made about the struggles surrounding the Miami Hurricanes’ offense. Perhaps the most mystifying part of the offense is the lack of involvement by running backs in the passing game.

The running backs have been a key part of the team, as the running game has been a source of strength for Miami.  However, there is a lack of utilizing be running backs as pass-catchers within this offense.

Henry Parrish Jr. is the leader for the running backs in terms of receiving. He has six catches for 47 yards and a touchdown. Thad Franklin has three catches for 27 yards, while Jaylan Knighton has two catches for three yards.

That’s not to say this offense is bad. They are not bad at all. Sure, the playcalling is mystifying at times. However, the Hurricanes are averaging 448.8 yards per game. That is sixth in the ACC.  That’s pretty good, if you ask me.

Getting running backs involved would benefit Miami Hurricanes

Miami needs to get the running backs more involved in the passing game. Quarterback play is struggling right now, and the wide receiver position is still trying to find that top wideout. Throwing more balls to the running backs could be ideal, as it would give Tyler Van Dyke and Jake Garcia safe throws, and help move an offense that is struggling.

The problem is, running backs as receiving options aren’t prevalent in a Josh Gattis-led offense. Take last year’s Michigan team for example. Running back Hassan Haskins had 18 catches for 131 yards. That averages out to 7.3 yards per reception. Blake Corum had  24 receptions for 141 yards and a touchdown. That averages out to 5.9 yards per reception.

Those numbers are not bad by any means. However, the lack of volume in terms of receptions certainly signals that running backs are the fourth or fifth  passing option in a Gattis-led offense. Gattis preferred to use his running backs primarily as just that at Michigan last year, and he’s doing the same with Miami right now.

This, in my opinion, needs to change. Miami does not have a top wide receiver right now. Miami also has issues at the quarterback position. Involving the running backs more would allow the quarterbacks to get safe throws and move the chains.

Simply put, it’s something Josh Gattis should look into sooner rather than later.

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