You know going into this year that you aren't going to have a really good pass protecting O-line no matter what you do. You couldn't afford to keep some guys, others didn't work out, etc. You can't afford to go out and buy them, there aren't enough in the draft and besides they would just be rookies anyway; and you have other needs to be addressed. So, what to do?
This thread has got me thinking (scary). People have mentioned having two backs rushing for 1000 yds and while that may be pretty optimistic maybe this is the ideal time for that to happen. In the draft teams passed over J Reed who rated as high as a 13th pick overall. The reasoning behind that was, even though he was considered the best run stuffer in the NCAA, he isn't considered a pass rusher. Kearly mentioned that our D-line looked thin and smallish next to the Cowboys O-line. Even one of our own, F Clark, thinned down in an effort to be a speedier pass rusher.
You see the trend all over the NFL, lighter, speedier, defensive linemen. It's only common sense that's happening w/the modern emphasis on the passing game, but I can't help but wonder if this O-line is part of a bigger master plan. You have arguably the best run blocking guru in the NFL in Tom Cable, you have multiple huge 6'6" 320 lb. linemen, and you draft a squadron of running backs. The plan becomes to turn them into an efficient zone blocking squad through their overwhelming size disparity. By doing this along w/a rotation of fresh running backs you eliminate the need for superior pass blocking because the defense is constantly playing on its heels not knowing if you are going to run or not.
Of course you can say that this a simple balanced offense, but I think it more than that given the current emphasis on passing. You are simply identifying a weakness in the scheme and taking advantage of it. Add in a big play QB and receivers and you have an EXTREMELY difficult offense to defend against. Of course this is all predicated on Bevell being able to mix it up and not be so g-damned predictable!
If it turns out this way, and it is part of a predetermined plan, it's downright brilliant.