Short rods for pitching and light flipping

I'm using two rods for pitching pads and flipping grass mats currently. A 76 heavy carbonlite and a similarly powered 711 Veritas. Am I the only one out there who prefers shorter rods? These rods  work fine but I'm thinking of upgrading them but choosing a shorter model. 

I ask because I would like to replace these with a saint Croix legend tournament bass In the 74 heavy fast model. Will this rod be enough rod to pitch 1/2 to 1 ounce weighted plastics into pads with 50 to 65 lb braid? will a shorter rod be a bad move or should I stick to a longer model? This rod will likely get used for frogs and small swimbaits in heavy cover as well. 

Thanks for any input.