Comparing the LSU Offense to the SF 49ers Offense

Principally, Jim Harbaugh's offense in San Francisco is very similar to Miles' offensive philosophy. Everything starts with the power running game, incorporating TEs and FBs. The 49ers don't throw the ball much (of 32 NFL teams SF ranks 30th in pass attempts, 31st last year), but when they do they are efficient and don't turn the ball over (SF threw the least amount of INTS in the NFL last year). By NFL standards Harbaugh doesn't ask QB Alex Smith to do too much, or be "superman."

The difference to me is that SF has elements of deception, creativity, and diversity in their offense that we lack.

One of the major differences is how involved the TEs are in the passing game, which fits because the TE pass is usually safe and generally provides the greatest margin for error. TEs Vernon Davis and Delanie Walker are heavily involved in the SF passing game, accounting for 31% of the 49ers catches in 2011.

Now, think about 2007. The most prolific scoring team in LSU history at 38.6 PPG. That was Richard Dickson's sophomore year and his best at LSU (32 catches, 375 yards & 5 TDs). 36 total catches by TEs in 2007, which is the most in the Miles era.

Say what you want about the quality of our TEs this year but they've been pretty consistent (especially compared to our receivers) and were clutch vs. Florida.

The point is, Miles' offensive philosophy can work and has worked, but we can't forget about adjunct pieces, like the TEs, RB screens, Shepard, etc.