Mailbag Comment and Question: Regarding vertical passing game?

You guys do a nice overall job. Definitely no sugarcoating which is nice. A little more elaboration on certain things would be nice though.

That in mind, what are your guys' thoughts on how much the vertical element will evolve and hopefully increase with better play at quarterback and better overall speed at receiver (I felt only Stonum had any deep speed this year)? I was just comparing stats of receptions/yards of Michigan receivers versus Florida's and found that Mathews (2nd leading receiver) would have tied for the team lead on Florida's in receptions. Granted a big difference in yards between he and Harvin but interesting nonetheless. Also as a team, Florida completed only 14 more passes than Michigan, though they had about 800 additional yards and had a 62/38 run-pass ratio (counting sacks as runs). UM was 58/42.

As I watched this year's offense, my only solace was hoping that we could evolve to look something like Florida once the appropriate pieces are in place. A run first spread that gets guys the ball in space (via jet sweeps, screens, bubble and others) but that can also get vertical pass plays on a fairly regular basis. Am I being too optimistic? I know Michigan does not have anybody with the speed of Demps / Rainey / Harvin right now but here is hoping that changes soon.

Thanks.

Brad.

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Thanks for the question and comments. Michigan needs to add three things if they are going to improve / add a vertical passing game.

First, they need a quarterback capable of executing.

Secondly they need at least one additional split end capable of getting vertical.

Thirdly Michigan needs to improve protection to give the receivers time to get vertical.

One part of the Florida passing game that adds to passing total is yards after catch. Florida's skilled people are excellent at getting those additional yards that so far has eluded Michigan.

The question is how much Michigan will use a vertical passing game. Coach Rod add a very limited vertical game at West Virginia and showed very little times we visited Michigan this spring.

Was this due to personnel, or was it because the staff does not believe a vertical passing game is necessary. We will be getting a better read after the spring and will share what we learn at that time.

Sometimes our crystal balls are a little cloudy.

Written by CoachBt and ErocWolverine