Part of the recent success could also be attributed to Vance Joseph diluting the first team defense by giving guys the time off from practice.  About a week ago I remember Joseph giving TJ and Talib a day off on the same day.  Those are two big players not to have to worry about.  I'm glad he was doing it, as growing a mediocre (at best) QB isn't as productive when you keep throwing one of the best pass defenses against them.