Bill Salmon is a former QB from UNI. He never played running back. He came to UNI from KU where he was Terry Allen's Offensive Coordinator. He also served as RB coach during most of that time. It's notable they took over a previously ranked program and never managed a winning record. At UNI Salmon serves as Assistant Head Coach as well as RB coach. I add this because he has always had his attention divided which makes it even more difficult to coach a position he never played. If you're relying on Johnson's numbers to validate Salmon's coaching, that's not a good deduction. Firstly, Johnson didn't play the position traditionally or as he will need to in the NFL. He was almost an H-back on many plays. Secondly, his running technique is badly flawed. He runs too upright, negating much of the power his size could provide. This is why so many reviews say he's not an inside runner. Thirdly, he lacks sophistication. Quick cuts and stutter steps, for example, are not moves he possesses. Yet if you watch his receiving agility it's clear he could be taught these moves. This is what running back coaching is designed to provide and I believe you have to point to the coaching for these deficits. Johnson is very raw technique-wise. The good news is he takes coaching well and is bright. He should develop into both a fine runner and receiver for the Cards. This is why articles, like the one beginning this thread, are so plused about Johnson.
