Kansas football: Taking a dive into new OC Andy Kotelnicki’s offense

Nov 7, 2020; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; Kansas Jayhawks quarterback Jalon Daniels (17) runs as Oklahoma Sooners defensive end Marcus Stripling (33) chases during the second half at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 7, 2020; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; Kansas Jayhawks quarterback Jalon Daniels (17) runs as Oklahoma Sooners defensive end Marcus Stripling (33) chases during the second half at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports /
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Kansas sophomore running back Daniel Hishaw Jr. attempts to evade defenders in the first quarter of Saturday’s spring game scrimmage at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium in Lawrence.
Kansas sophomore running back Daniel Hishaw Jr. attempts to evade defenders in the first quarter of Saturday’s spring game scrimmage at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium in Lawrence. /

Taking a dive into new OC Andy Kotelnicki’s offense

Rushing attack

Led by junior running back Jaret Patterson, the 2020 Bulls’ offense was supported by a consistent rushing effort that allowed for decent yardage gains to set up plenty of opportunities.

The 2020 season was a strong year for Bulls rushing, as Patterson would find 1000+ yards during the seven-game season.

Kotelnicki led a rushing attack that promoted success inside and behind strong runners. This helped the Bulls develop a consistent edge against opponents, which may become a similar trend for Jayhawks’ running backs coach Jonathan Wallace, who will be returning for his second season at Kansas.

Both Kotelnicki and Wallace have worked with talented backs, which could help their coaching styles mesh well. This will also open up avenues to collaborate with the current talent available, which includes both upperclassmen and young talent.

In Kansas’ case, there is a range of potential with the rushing game. Both Daniel Hishaw Jr. and Amauri Pesek-Hickson are two rushers who found glimmers of promise last season and may grow into Coach Kotelnicki’s coaching style.

Both backs have decent strength and size, and when paired with veteran running back Velton Gardner, there could be a solid rotation forming this summer.

Considering the offensive line still has plenty of work to do, finding creativity with the backs will be something we’ll need to expect from Kotelnicki. While offensive line coach Scott Fuchs is another respectable move by Leipold, however, it will be a process to put together a reliable line.