We Need a Better Record Against the AFC North

[Soonerpeace]

(02-02-2024, 11:07 AM)ochocincos Wrote: Some people seem to think there needs to be a massive overhaul to the OL/DL because of going 1-5 in the division (despite winning 8 other games).

For defense, it was basically the same DL and LBs in 2023 as it was in 2021 and 2022.
Hendrickson, Hubbard, Reader, Hill, Pratt, and Wilson.
2021 - 5th in rush yards allowed, 13th in YPC allowed
2022 - 7th in rush yards allowed, 9th in YPC allowed
2023 they were much worse, but it was basically the same guys.
If there's any spot that really changed in 2023, it was the new, young safeties though. Bell had a pretty big impact on the run game. Hill and Battle need to grow, especially against the run, but I don't think we need to push the panic button after just one bad year with brand new safeties. Heck, with Burrow down, the Bengals weren't likely going to the AFCCG/SB anyway even with a good defense.

OL has continued to be a problem though the past 3 years, despite who has been added.
I'm no expert, but from what I've seen, it's due to the players' skill set and scheme.
But we need to be realistic and understand that whether we like it or not, 4 of the 5 spots are locks for 2024.
Is a new RT going to magically make this OL a Top 10 unit against the run and/or pass protection?
I don't think so, as we still have the same coaching minus Callahan.
Maybe Pitcher though will bring some new creativity to get this limited OL more effective while masking their weaknesses.

I agree with all this. Kinda perplexed about our run defense. It had been solid the last 2 years with the same group. I’m just not sold on Pollack in the least bit. Some say they aren’t athletic. Some say they are better in zone or others in gap. Whatever the running backs, the linemen, and Pollack are not a match. Mixon dances around too much in a zone scheme so they went to more a gap. He needs to know where to go. So are the linemen more suited for zone? I don’t know which 9ne Pollack is best at coaching. Regardless it’s dysfunctional. I got frustrated in the playoffs watching other teams run games. It’s really pathetic our run game. I’m hearing they want a much improved TE. Better than they’ve had the entire Zac time here. I’d expect they are also eyeing a Mixon replacement for ‘25. I differ from others I think they aren’t looking at WR because they will tag Tee. I’m not worried about him balking at playing.i think they’ve not ruled out a higher ceiling with Jones & Isovias. They’ll hold off using a high pick on WR or in FA.I think RT in the first round and DT in FA. 2nd round BPA at TE, RB,