As a former running back - blocking is not a problem. The Iowa backs have traditionally had terrible vision and/or decision-making skills. Wadley was an exception to that rule, but it's been since Tavian Banks before that that we've had a back that could read a block consistently.
Yes, the zone blocking outside run is dumb, but there are holes, big enough ones, for a couple seconds on each play. However, too often Iowa backs hit the line at 1000 mph with their heads down, don't dig in behind a good tackle block, or bounce outside but can't plant and turn up field.
Iowa backs lock onto a hole, look straight at it, and try to power through. If they are lucky, the gaurd seals off the pursuit backer and they break a first down. Watch Taylor, and that guy from NW. They are patient in the backfield, and turn on the juice right before a lineman turns their guy, run right up the lineman's back, and then lower the shoulder if necessary.
The best tool a rb has is not his legs. It his eyes and brain.
