It played well because that is part of the equation. The offense also had long sustained drives last year. The offense wasn't very good last year but it wasn't abysmal. Talent at Rb and a talented running qb were abe to produce on the ground last year. The OLine shouldn't be worse at run blocking this year. Thus we have to conclude talent or lack thereof is the biggest issue. There are multiple other factors though. LAST year new offense. first time qb coming off injury, whatever. This year the d returned alot while the on did not, there really shouldn't be any excuses for either.

We have issues everywhere.