Good post - I agree.I think the Iowa model to compete with OSU and CFP contenders is to:
1. They have to dominate the LOS with the o line. They need to be bullies again.
2. While TE's have been really good and it looks like RB recruiting is in good shape, there needs to be more talent with the WR position.
3. They are going to have to get some mobility at the QB position. The non-mobile QB just allows everything to be so much easier for the defenses, they can drop another man in coverage as well as pin their ears back and not have to worry about over-rushing the gaps and edges.
But all of it can be accomplished in this scheme. Iowa will never win any stat competition, they just don't play that way, but if you had the 2002 o line with a healthy Tate/CJ along with DJK/McNutt/Tevaun Smith/Mo Brown/CJ Jones, Kittle/Hock/LaPorta/Moeaki and a Greene type RB (KJ looks great), I would bet that even within the same exact scheme as we have we would compete with anyone. And with the same OC. And honestly I don't think it is that far-fetched.
This is exactly why I put the onus on BF and not KF.
What is wrong with the basic scheme the Hawks play? We've seen them go 5 wide, run reverses, fullback/no fullback, double TE, no TE. I don't think there are limitations in the scheme.
Now, if BF had his eye on a mobile QB that he thought the Hawks could get and KF said "No". That would be a limitation imposed by KF. Otherwise, where are the "handcuffs" everyone refers to? BF calls the plays, he can change play design, etc.
A mobile QB is essential in FB, college and pro IMO.
KF is responsible for hiring and retaining BF. BF is responsible for the offense.