Clearly, I've been disappointed in the last two losses.....but for some strange reason I'm not all "gloom and doom" today. We are not just a missed field goal or a fumble away from 2 wins or 2 losses.....we are a multitude of missed opportunities away from being 3-0. In nearly all three games I've seen us knock on the door and not go thru. Stalled red zone drives have resulted in either miscues or field goals. Touchdowns in some of these situations change the whole complexion of the games. A couple successes in the red zone yesterday means that instead of the Rams playing a conservative offense, controlling the clock by running and short passes, they're forced to play catch-up, which could mean more opportunities for our more opportunistic defense. A touchdown or two against Dallas and/or Houston and the games have different outcomes....maybe not even having to rely on a hold to win our opener.
Our defense, while last in the league and on the surface of things appearing to be a mess.....is MUCH more opportunistic than ever. Our turnover ratio has to be well into the positive rather than the negative (although I don't know the numbers). I suspect that the 3-4 will come together more in time. I do feel that Andre Carter is being mis-used......but other than that have a hunch that things will sort out.
On offense, we are a decidedly better team with Trent Williams in the game. I think next years' draft will undoubtedly be addressing the line again. There are some decent backups starting for us this year. We need to improve on that. Still, it's not entirely hopeless. Our run game will improve with time and familiarity with the zone scheme. Portis needs to stay in the game. I'm very anxious to hear why he was out in the 4th when we needed his pass blocking more than ever. McNabb needs to look for more receivers beyond the regular 3 guys. And, for their part, those guys need to make themselves more find-able. Not sure why Thomas isn't in from time to time.
Special teams.....well.......I hope that Hunter the punter is re-signed and that the Bidwell experiment is over. LOVE (with capital letters) Gano. I find I have more confidence than ever about the kicker this year. It seems like Thomas is a step away from breaking it on nearly every kick-off return and our punt return team (Buchanon) is solid. Nothing special there, but at least he doesn't run backwards....which is a welcome change.
That's my two cents........hoping we wake up in Philly. Everywhere I read this morning people are literally freaking out. I say, let's not get too crazy yet.....I think we're still a work in progress and there are simply gonna be days like this.
Momma said.