yes, they were relatively easy to defend, but that may also be a bi-product of 90% of the other shooters at VCU having the same general shooting area (right in front of the ramp) and adding clutter.
I wouldn't call the lining up for shots "silly". If they are off-target, there goes like 10-15 balls before they can stop shooting
I don't really think they will be able to carry an alliance, but if a herder earns an alliance captain spot, I think they'd make an excellent 2nd pick. They have a very limited roll to play, but I can think of few teams capable of playing it better.