For one, RT has gotten markedly better EVERY season. How many young QBs do that? He's at the point now where I expect him to be "the guy" from a leadership and gamesmanship standpoint. He obviously has all the physical tools, and has a system that fits him (and receiving corps as well). I believe his play will overcome the OL's deficiencies more-so than previous years as well, not saying he won't take a sack, but he's getting much more comfortable with the pocket. The players seem to be feeding off his confidence this year...that's new, and cannot be ignored, it will help everything.
Two, the team's young talent has been improving with Hickey. I'm not saying we have a trainload of pro-bowlers on their first contract, but if the youngsters keep developing like several have over the past few years, and the team can systematically maintain a higher level of talent, unlike they ever have. Still a few holes to fill and more depth to improve, but considering the holes going into 2012/13, I like where they are. Great teams do that, they have the chance, we'll see how it goes.
Three, like it and/or agree with it or not, Philbin seems to also be improving IMO. I think his main problem is the learning curve is much bigger than he expected when he took the job, but he's adjusting and growing in it...slowly...but if he can steadily improve, if slowly, along with RT's improvement, it's not beyond the realm of possibility to expect consistency in making the playoffs. I'm not a "Philbin fan," but I certainly hope and pull for him to get it done while he's on the team.
My answer is 1 with a decent possibility of 2, because it's so damn hard to win a Super Bowl, and with the parity and free agency being what they are, it's even harder to maintain that level. But I think they'll be annually respected and have a shot for many years once they hurdle the regular season.
im already proud of what hes becoming and that my evaluation so early is bearing fruit as he develops but i just want to start reaping the benefits...
