If we learned anything from the Don Nehlen era, it’s that WVU can run the ball.  Now, I’m not talking about the ol’ 3 runs up the middle and punt.  I’m talking about spread the field and run.  We were spoiled with Pat White at quarterback.  He could run and throw and scared the daylights out of defensive coordinators.

Noel Devine has proven that he is a great runner.  He averaged 8.6 yards per carry as a freshman.  Now, Owen Schmitt, Steve Slaton and Pat White were all there also.  Did I mention that those three all play on Sundays now?  Devine averaged 6.3 yards per carry as the feature back his sophomore season.  And then there is 2009.

As of today, he has averaged 6.2 yards per carry with 9 touchdowns.  I know Coach Stewart is afraid to overwork Noel, but it appears that they like to give him 20-25 touches per game.  I think the magical number on runs for Devine is 20-25.  Also give him 3-5 receptions per game.  It may not seem like a big deal but it could be a huge difference.  It should have been the difference in the Auburn game.

WVU has always had multiple running backs able to contribute.  Unfortunately, Jarrett Brown is our number 2 rusher.  Now, Pat White was always a great rusher but our third rusher has 88 yards for the season, and that is Ryan Clarke.  One of the other backs have to step up and take the load off of Devine.

I am not saying we should go back to the old ways.  I’m just pointing out the fact that we need to run a little more.  If we get big leads on any of these remaining games, we cannot afford to throw the ball.  We need to protect the lead, run the ball and use up the clock.