LCROD said:
My contention is that running behind behind that oline, an average back could do spectacular things. Ron Dayne is a product of the WIS Oline, not the other way around.
I have seen just about every snap of Ron Dayne's career - both college and pro - and I can tell you that the Texans may have lucked out big time by getting him.
I went to Wisconsin and as a season ticket holder, I saw him in play in person at least 2 dozen times. I also get the NFL sunday ticket. Here are some things everyone should know:
1) Despite what some others have implied here, he is a great character guy. He has always put the team ahead of himself (which has ironically hurt his NFL career somewhat). Many people have perceived that lack of ego as lack of agressiveness.
2) He needs a bunch of carries to be effective, and he gets stronger and stronger as a game proceeds.
3)Yes, he had a very good O-line in college, but the majority of his yards also came after contact. If he gets through the line he has an amazing burst and great vision.
4) The Giants never knew what to do with him and they should have never drafted him. Tiki was considered to be a mediocre back at best until they drafted Dayne. Tiki continued to get better and better and their running scheme is built for a cutback type of runner. The Broncos and now the Texans use a zone blocking scheme which is exactly what Dayne flourished in during college. (Editor's note: Jim Fassell is a moran).
5) He is NOT a short-yardage/goaline only back. That's what the Giants tried to do with him. Every time he went in, the defense knew exactly what play they Giants were going to run. And, his pass catching ability is still an unknown. The Badgers never really passed to the RBs back then, and he hasn't played enough as a pro as an every down back to know.
6) He performed very well for the Broncos last year when given the opportunity and was the key reason they beat both San Diego and Dallas.
7) He has not had any major injuries/surgeries and their is still a lot of tread on the old tires. Had this toe problem not occured during camp, he would still be a Bronco and he'd probably have gotten the bulk of the carries for them.