06-06-2017, 06:09 AM
I am predicting 11-5 and an AFC North Title.
This team has finally addressed what I have been calling the biggest need ever since Chris Henry's death. I believe the offense will be significantly upgraded versus a year ago. The offensive line is worrisome, but I have faith that in year 3, and finally with a healthy offseason of work, that Ogbuehi and Fisher will prove their worth.
The defense similarly addressed the biggest need on their side of the ball...not once (Willis) but twice (Lawson). I am also very excited for having 16 games with a motivated, in-shape, Burfict. Depth of talent at DT and LB will allow for the rotation that has been lacking in recent years.
Special teams improves as much as offense or defense with an infusion of youth and speed, as well as a new kicker.
From a coaching standpoint, we have guys like Zampese in his second year in the OC role, and Coyle in his second year since his return. Guys like Shawn Williams now in his second year as the starter will also be better in year two. Shawn had a rough start to his season a year ago, but a lot of it makes sense with an out-of-shape Jones and no Burfict for the first several games. He improved as the season wore on and will be solid in year two.
As much as I hated to see Whitworth leave, I am excited to see a roster without guys that simply don't have it any more (Peko, Dansby, Maualuga) and more youth and strength. Love what Vigil showed at the end of last year, and I can't wait to see Billings and Minter on the field.
Saying 11-5 isn't being a homer, or showing no respect to other AFC North teams. I honestly believe this is the best roster assembled in a long, long time and they have stability in the coaching ranks. This season will come down to two guys: Dalton and Burfict. I believe Dalton showed his mettle last season and will be salivating at the prospect of playing with the new weapons at his disposal, and Burfict is simply the best player we have on defense and is the unquestioned leader.
Those two guys will lead the way to 11-5.
This team has finally addressed what I have been calling the biggest need ever since Chris Henry's death. I believe the offense will be significantly upgraded versus a year ago. The offensive line is worrisome, but I have faith that in year 3, and finally with a healthy offseason of work, that Ogbuehi and Fisher will prove their worth.
The defense similarly addressed the biggest need on their side of the ball...not once (Willis) but twice (Lawson). I am also very excited for having 16 games with a motivated, in-shape, Burfict. Depth of talent at DT and LB will allow for the rotation that has been lacking in recent years.
Special teams improves as much as offense or defense with an infusion of youth and speed, as well as a new kicker.
From a coaching standpoint, we have guys like Zampese in his second year in the OC role, and Coyle in his second year since his return. Guys like Shawn Williams now in his second year as the starter will also be better in year two. Shawn had a rough start to his season a year ago, but a lot of it makes sense with an out-of-shape Jones and no Burfict for the first several games. He improved as the season wore on and will be solid in year two.
As much as I hated to see Whitworth leave, I am excited to see a roster without guys that simply don't have it any more (Peko, Dansby, Maualuga) and more youth and strength. Love what Vigil showed at the end of last year, and I can't wait to see Billings and Minter on the field.
Saying 11-5 isn't being a homer, or showing no respect to other AFC North teams. I honestly believe this is the best roster assembled in a long, long time and they have stability in the coaching ranks. This season will come down to two guys: Dalton and Burfict. I believe Dalton showed his mettle last season and will be salivating at the prospect of playing with the new weapons at his disposal, and Burfict is simply the best player we have on defense and is the unquestioned leader.
Those two guys will lead the way to 11-5.
![[Image: 4CV0TeR.png]](https://i.imgur.com/4CV0TeR.png)
