We are 0 for 2007 right now, our once vaunted defense is a shambles, we are officially on the QB carousel, and we have an entire unit of opening day starters on IR (by numbers, not by unit). What players do we have to work with in 2008? Who should not only make the grade and stay on the team, but also be counted on for next season? For me, our Offense, even with all of the performance sapping injuries, can be a strong suit for us. To wit: 1. Vernon Carey made a seamless switch to LT, preseason that was a huge concern, "an injury to Carey and we are in deep trouble" he played all season and was solid at the toughest position on the Oline.. 2. Samson Satele, he stepped right in and we didn't really notice him, for a Rookie Olineman, that is the highest praise that can be given for his performance. 3. Ted Ginn jr. Once he was inserted into the line up as a starter, he was everything that we were told that he would be in 2007, a true speed burning deep threat who is a danger to return a kick for a TD, he has had 2 called back, scored one, and with our Special Teams unit, that is a job well done. Other teams are forced to kick off short to avoid the danger of Ginn TD return, giving us field position on the 35 yd line. 4. Reagen Mauia, still green and learning, hasn't missed a game, but still has played well for us. Anyone else that we can build on for 2008 on offense or defense or special teams?
Kicker obviously is solid. On defense, I'm curious to see more of Moses and I really like the way Jason Allen has played since being forced into action. I actually don't think our secondary is that far way from being good. If we can sign a corner like Trufant or Samuel, who can be your No. 1, I have no problem with Will allen as your No. 2. At that point Goodman and Daniels become solid nickel and dime guys. Add a safety like gibril wilson or Madieu williams to go along with allen and a resigned Bell, I think you're in business.
Jason Allen really stepped up his performance, from almost being cut, to being a pretty good starter, he has been one of the pleasant surprises. Will Allen as well, he has played really well for us.
Alright, what do we have to build on for 2008? well ... the first pick in every round of the draft. (sigh...)
Heading into the draft, Get McFadden, Colt Brennan and his Favorite target Rivers from HU. Defense,Defense,Defense,Defense and go after Offensive and Defensive Line in FA. Done!! Playoffs!! Respectability!!! Retirement!! Rejoice!!! ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,then die.
Defensively: Get new interior line plugging lineman to keep blockers off LB's Allow Prter to do what he does, RUSH the QB, should always compliment pass rushing DE Need a number one cover corner for Will Allen. Need a dominant, hard hitting safety. If JT leaves need a pass rushing DE Offensively: Need A QB to step UP and become credible Need Guards that can pick up blitzes and pass block Need a TE that is a passing threat Need a possesion receiver with great hands, physical
yeah i think we need a solid better o lineman as in guard and i would like us to get a true lt and move carey back to rt really a better pass locking corpse. we need to add a solid dt and depth there. a young solid de to help roth and taylor and d backs are the biggest issue i think we need a top cb and a solid ss. with bell at fs next year and a solid ss i think that will help out a lot. we have a lot of talent but we just need to put it all together. and of course mcfadden will be a big bonus.
Find out which defensive system we're going run, 3-4 or 4-3. Go from there. Need someone opposite of JT that can rush the passer. Linebacker help, especially someone behind Zach, he can't last forever. The Allen's are a good start for the secondary: Will @ CB and Jason @ safety. The offense needs playmakers. Ronnie is a stud at RB. Desperately need a pass catching TE. The o-line needs 2 G's and RT.
What I would love to see happen is Lorenzo Booker fill the 3rd WR role along with taking Ginn's job on Punt and Kick returns. For me, he has been the last guy Cam put into the games but his "X" potential is a bright spot, LB can't cover him, and Booker on Kick Returns makes more sense then Ginn.. That is 2 players that, Booker along with Hagan, who could really contribute if they learn or are taught their jobs better.
Be careful. The way this season has gone, anything you note as a positive could still turn ugly with 3 weeks to go. Remember when we hadn't won a game and the only thing worth watching for was Ronnie Brown?
There you go with the negative vibes man... Kelly's Hero's fan? Ted Ginn is beginning to be worth watching, ditto LBook...
