[Hulk01]

Just to amplify the Hogan-receivers "problem."

Hogan has a long, slow release that allows defensive backs to get a jump on the short and intermediate throws.  And didn't help, for purposes of making the shorter throws, that Hogan had a low release point that made it harder to release the ball above the hands of the rushing defensive linemen.  Then throw in that his fastball probably topped out in the mid 80's, which gave the defenders another split second to get their hand on the ball before our guy did. 

Our staff, of course, knew this, and really didn't fool much trying to sneak in a slant or an out, both of which require heat.  But those are the plays on which a great slot receiver like Irwin thrives.  Ditto Doug Baldwin, but he had Andrew Luck, as did the Whalens.  If Hogan had been our QB when the Whalens were here, we might never have realized they were very good college receivers. 

And for the same reason, casual fans don't realize what a talent Irwin is--a 6'2" guy with great hands who runs routes like a 5'10" ankle breaker.

[Hulk01]

Just to amplify the Hogan-receivers "problem."

Hogan has a long, slow release that allows defensive backs to get a jump on the short and intermediate throws.  And didn't help, for purposes of making the shorter throws, that Hogan had a low release point that made it harder to release the ball above the hands of the rushing defensive linemen.  Then throw in that his fastball probably topped out in the mid 80's, which gave the defenders another split second to get their hand on the ball before our guy did. 

Our staff, of course, knew this, and really didn't fool much trying to sneak in a slant or an out, both of which require heat.  But those are the plays on which a great slot receiver like Irwin thrives.  Ditto Doug Baldwin, but he had Andrew Luck, as did the Whalens.  If Hogan had been our QB when the Whalens were here, we might never have realized they were very good college receivers. 

And for the same reason, casual fans don't realize what a talent Irwin is--a 6'2" guy with great hands who runs routes like a 5'10" ankle breaker.