Public land where? Public land in, say, Wyoming is very different than public land in Connecticut, for example. Are you talking about 500 acres with 10 people on it, or a national forest, or something in between. That said, I believe I see a lot more whitetails a lot closer when I'm standing still. And I gun hunt off the ground for the most part, even though I usually have stands set from bow hunting. Wind direction is also important.
I don't have much to say about drives other than people have been using this method forever; some consider it unethical; and whether it is a good idea on public land depends on that size and nature of that land as well as how crowded it is.
As for equipment, don't waste your money on gimmicks. A good gun, good knife, and warm clothes and boots are the most important. The one thing I like that's a bit gimmicky is the Butt-Out from Hunter's Specialties.
Good luck.