I usually go into each season breaking down each section of offense and defense to look for improvement. I also like to look at the reasons we lost in the previous season.
So, looking at the 2009 season it's obvious we couldn't close games. We lack a closer. We lack the ability to eat clock and stifle opposing Os late. Why?
-There is no doubt Mendenhall has the power to be a short yardage back. But, our O line couldn't beat the Dlines we have played when the opposition knew we were running. It's as simple as that. Mendenhall had no lanes...and often had a guy in his face in those short yardage late game situations.
-Defensive fatigue and injuries were the main reasons we gave up leads. Our D line is old and couldn't hold it together for 4 quarters...certainly not without Smith.
2010
QB situation-it won't help us to have Ben out. But, I do think we go 2-2 without him. There is no reason Ben's absence should cripple us. (worse)
Running Game-I don't see it being vastly improved. With the loss of Colon our OLine will take a significant hit. Pouncey will help...but he is still a rook. Dwyer will help but he can't create lanes like Bettis. Mendenhall will run for 1500 yards but we will still struggle in short yardage situations. (slightly improved)
WRs- The loss of Holmes is a big deal no matter how you slice it. Ward is still nursing two bad hammies and won't make it through the year intact. The addition of the aging ARE was not all that helpful. Battle is very interesting and I'm looking foward to seeing the rooks play. (worse)
Oline- The addition of Pouncey was huge. But, the loss of Colon was just as huge. Even with the new coach I see us struggling early. (same)
Dline-Having Smith back is wonderful. Hood is going to be the real deal and can spell our aging front. (Improved)
Linebackers-Farrior was just bad last season in coverage...and not much better in run support despite getting some decent stats. I do think Timmons will be better this year...and Foote to be an improvement over Farrior. (Improved)
Secondary-Clearly the area we have improved the most. McFadden is terrific in our system. Troy being healthy is a crucial. Our 2nd year guys are coming on. This should be a great year for our secondary. (Huge Improvement)
Questions
Can we close games this season?
Can we find new go to guys on O?
Can we withstand a huge injury?
Will Ben come back and play well?
If we stay healthy there is no reason we won't win 11 games. If we lose Troy or Ben for a significant time...no playoffs again.
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