1. Weeden has been really inconsistent but that doesn't mean "bad." He's just not the same improved QB on every play. I suppose that's to be expected but I have concerns that he is what he is... and the mental part of the game isn't his strong suit. He has amazing arm talent... kinda like Derek Anderson.
Grossi says the offense right now is "crisp like uncooked bacon." QB play is spotty.
2. However, it looks like we're going to field one of the NFL's better lines, all under contract for a long time after Mack is extended, and one of the top 5 RBs in the NFL. That's gotta count for something, even in a passing league. We should be able to run the football.
3. Speaking of RBs, I think the team REALLY loves Dion Lewis. Way more of a change of pace for T-Rich. Crazy quick, drawing comparisons to Eric Metcalf. Chorv could have fun with this kid and that doesn't bode well for Hardesty, dinged again. Too bad because I think a healthy Hardesty is a 4+, 1,000 yard back. He could start for New England. Well, or most good teams because they don't give a huge **** about running backs.
4. Shawn Lauvao is having a really nice camp, which is why there's no need to flip Greco to the right side. Pinkston gets time to round into playing shape. Faulk is expected to practice any day now before we find a way to stash him for next year. Gilkey's doing so-so. Point is, we're improved at guard and have strong depth there.
5. Now that defense... they're looking awesome. Chris Owens seems to be locking down the #2 CB spot in a bit of a surprise. He's just playing really, really well according to everybody. He was miscast as a slot and is a very legit #2 NFL cornerback. Could turn out to be a BRILLIANT piece of personnel work after passing on those 315 #2 corner types in free agency.
Also allows Skrine to play the slot which he does very well. McFadden has looked a bit rookie-ish, even in drills. Not having to start might be a great thing for him. He could be serious competition for Owens in 2014 and I expect we'll also add a corner with size.
6. Horton has some Teacher's Pets: Robertson has to be #1 because of the explosive speed, which reminds Horton of Daryl Washington. Expect to see him firing up the middle while other teams are concerned about our bevy of outside rushers. Horton talks more about Robertson than anybody else.
7. Tashaun Gipson was fitting into Horton's scheme really well before the tweak and concern about that position has waned... if Gipson stays healthy. I haven't heard a word about Slaughter and Bademosi needs work. Gipson's brief time off probably helps him.
But Horton seems to think Gipson is a legit starting FS with great instincts and athleticism. If we can field a healthy five-some of Haden, Ward, Gipson, Owens, and Skrine, we'll be strong there, allowing the best part of our team (front 7) to dominate.
8. So what is a team with the potential to run the ball really well, an attacking defense that rattles the pocket, and a shaky QB situation? The Vikings, basically. And that ain't enough. Weeden needs to pull his **** together or you're gonna see Brian Hoyer pass both guys at get the starting shot Lombardi thinks he deserves.
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