I did study the opening gimme games fora a few years way back. I was surprised to find, that if you were sloppy with the ball in the then two consecutive games against gimme type opponents that tended to carry over for the whole season.
What i am hoping to see this week is:
1. A balanced offense at least in yards if not plays.
2. A credible OL performance. They really need to look good against an opponent like this to hope to improve and be credible later the season (month).
3. No DB breakdowns. This will be a young defensive backfield. They have shown to be talented, but they need to be consistent play after play and not give up long scores against such an opponent. And even the backups who will probably have to play some key downs this season need to not give up long plays.
4. Some rational use of the RBs. Something that looks like a rotation so guys can get a feel for the game and become more productive as a game goes along.
5. A good pass rush. If UF gets a lead as expected, then there should be plenty of pass rushing opportunities.
6. The front seven handling business and not getting gashed on 7ish or more yard runs even if they are infrequent.
7. Solid punting and place kicking.
8. Solid QB play so that the QB or QBs can build up confidence including in their ability to pass in this offense. QB play will need to be built up week by week this season, but it must start week one.
9. A coaching plan to accomplish these goals. Some logical way to develop the QBs. So don't just go with bubble screens because they are there. Find a variety of things for the QB to build stats with. Find a logical way to use the RBs. Maybe use two until the lead is outsize then work in the others. Sure take some chances on defense, but make your your DBs are not going to give up and big scoring play or your front seven is sound and not subject to being gashed. Don't try a 55 yard FG, get your guy a 25 to 35 yarder to build confidence. Don't go for it on 4th down all the time, let your punter and place kicker build up confidence.
