I gotta log off this website for a couple days.
I remember a time when nobody gave a shot about preseason. Now people think it’s the end all be all.
Wanny said it perfect. They called back to back screens so the team can get it down right. If that doesn’t open your eyes and make you question what preseason really is then there’s no helping you.
I never used to put too much into preseason games, but in truth, over the last many years the regular season starts have looked really similar to the meaningless preseason games. Over-reacting one way or another is kind of foolhardy, but that doesn’t mean that there is no reason for concerns or excitement, either. Preseason can show you individual and unit strengths and weaknesses. You can spot trends from players and previous seasons, etc.
All of the following are carryover trends from previous seasons to be concerned about:
1. Penalties on the offense. We led the league in this last year. This has not improved yet this offseason. I would have the offending players running full pads wind sprints all next practice. If I was Gase, this would be a top priority to fix, primarily because of point 2
2. This team struggles mightily on 3rd and long, or once anymore than 10 yards for a first is required. This Has been a problem throughout RT’s career, and whether it is playcalling or not, it is a trend that continues..
3. No intermediate or deep throws by the first team. It was short or nothing. This may have been the plan, but if RT has some rust, why not let him work a few in?
4. Too many negative runs. The run game was feast or famine. This is OL play, not scheme, so it needs to be cleaned up.
5. Too many screens.
6. Never running routes to or throwing to the sticks on 3rd down
7. Linebackers still out of place often and taking poor angles
8. Linebackers in coverage
9. Secondary gets exposed fairly easily if the rush doesn’t get there quick
10. Run defense still looks suspect
11. Struggles in the red zone
On the positive side:
1. Hurry up offense is finally starting to take shape and looks like it could actually be successful. Very encouraging for when we face teams with strong DL play and great scheme.
2. Drake is fast with a little open space
3. Receiving core is solid, even with the loss of Landry.
4. Quinn is gifted and plays with fire
5. Howard continues to develop into a ball hawk and a good CB
6. We have the best depth we have had for quite some time
7. Our rookies look like they can contribute