Kansas football: Running game shows signs of life
By Stan Unruh
The Kansas football team faced a crucial test Saturday. Despite losing the test, they did see promise in the running game.
Kansas football fans are very disappointed with the Saturday loss to Central Michigan. I certainly did not expect the crazy 45-27 outcome. I’m sure most of those in the Memorial Stadium stands or who tuned in online or on radio are mystified also. Turnovers, penalties and injuries cost David Beaty’s Jayhawks. Despite the outcome, the running game did show signs of life.
Many fans, so called media experts and others expressed concern about the running game after the season open. David Beaty did not seemed concerned and said as much in a media briefing prior to the Central Michigan game.
As a matter of fact, the Jayhawk passing game gained 364 in the season opener and only 89 on the ground. Against Central Michigan, Jayhawk ball carriers picked up 169 yards on 34 carries. Since Taylor Martin did not play due to injury, freshman Dom Williams led the way with 67 yards on 18 carries and a couple of touchdowns.
One play that stood out for the Jayhawk running game Saturday involved Wide Receiver Quan Hampton. On the second drive for Kansas football Hampton picked up 13 yards on run. The 5-foot 8-inch freshman is fast and the Jayhawks need to use all the speed available.
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History says the Kansas football team will struggle on the road against Ohio this Saturday. On the other hand, I think the Kansas football team could win with a balanced attack. Purdue used a balance of running and passing to beat the Bobcats on September 8. The Boilermakers also played some strong defense.