The first thing we learned during Saturday’s contest is that Robbie Rouse is not Ryan Mathews. This is not to say Rouse doesn’t have the potential to put up gaudy numbers, but the play calling didn’t suit his running style. With Rouse’s stature and slash-and-dash abilities, he is more suitable as a change-of-pace back rather than an every-down, between-the-tackles runner. A.J. Ellis, who is built more as a north and south runner, took only one carry between the tackles for six yards, longer than any carry Rouse had. Rouse is at his best in the open field as evidence by his 20-yard touchdown catch in the second quarter. Expect a running back by committee possibly when the ‘Dogs travel to Utah State on Sept. 18.
