The spring game looked a lot like the Orange's disastrous 2007 season. During the 37-play scrimmage, the Syracuse offense rushed 23 times for 56 yards. Determining why is not easy.

Perhaps it was the offensive line. Perhaps it was the shortage of running backs. Perhaps it was the defense, which might be better than expected.

Whatever it was, the running game didn't look good.

Last season, the Orange ranked 118th out of 119 Division I-A teams in rushing and averaged 62.75 yards rushing per game. Its average of 2.01 yards per rushing attempt was the lowest of any major college team last year.

That's a big reason why Robinson brought in assistant coach Mitch Browning to be his offensive coordinator. Browning's teams at Minnesota were among the nation's best in running the ball. At Syracuse, Browning has a huge challenge.

The offensive line is at the forefront of the run game issue in Browning's plan. In addition to the running game problems, the quarterbacks were sacked four times. But the Orange insists the offensive line is more physical and cohesive. Perhaps the results will be more apparent in the fall.

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