A list of some random things to watch as I eagerly await Week 1:
How does this defense hold up in the middle?
The size issues are well-documented and probably will be a theme throughout the year -- can this team hold up at the point of attack defensively? If we can hang at DT, I think this team could make a run at the success last year's team had. If not, we could be in for a season of shootouts, which leads to my next question ...
Is this offensive line finally a strength?
Rahme seems to indicate he thinks this is one of the stronger units on the team. If so, this could be a very intriguing offense to watch and we may finally see some consistency on the offensive side of the ball.
What does "Marrone's offense" look like?
I don't say this derisively and I list it third b/c I don't know that we'll see every wrinkle in Week 1. But my hope is the addition of the shotgun, more confidence in the OL, a veteran QB/RB combo and some depth at WR and, perhaps, at TE as well means we can finally get a bit more of a glimpse of what Marrone really wants to do on this side of the ball.
Are special teams at least a little more special?
I think we may struggle in the punting game -- which could kill us at some point -- but is there at least a bit more excitement in the return game and some more consistency in the coverage teams?
Is Grobe vs. Marrone a mismatch?
Intriguing matchup b/c I think we are all pretty fond of Marrone and feel he has been solid as a game coach, but Grobe has worked wonders at Wake. I don't anticipate a mismatch, but it will be interesting to watch.
How does this defense hold up in the middle?
The size issues are well-documented and probably will be a theme throughout the year -- can this team hold up at the point of attack defensively? If we can hang at DT, I think this team could make a run at the success last year's team had. If not, we could be in for a season of shootouts, which leads to my next question ...
Is this offensive line finally a strength?
Rahme seems to indicate he thinks this is one of the stronger units on the team. If so, this could be a very intriguing offense to watch and we may finally see some consistency on the offensive side of the ball.
What does "Marrone's offense" look like?
I don't say this derisively and I list it third b/c I don't know that we'll see every wrinkle in Week 1. But my hope is the addition of the shotgun, more confidence in the OL, a veteran QB/RB combo and some depth at WR and, perhaps, at TE as well means we can finally get a bit more of a glimpse of what Marrone really wants to do on this side of the ball.
Are special teams at least a little more special?
I think we may struggle in the punting game -- which could kill us at some point -- but is there at least a bit more excitement in the return game and some more consistency in the coverage teams?
Is Grobe vs. Marrone a mismatch?
Intriguing matchup b/c I think we are all pretty fond of Marrone and feel he has been solid as a game coach, but Grobe has worked wonders at Wake. I don't anticipate a mismatch, but it will be interesting to watch.