03-03-2018, 12:19 PM
I think the success of the 2018-19 season comes down to one man: Bill Lazor. He had the balls to change the offensive line blocking scheme mid-season (that could not have been easy) and showed he was right in his need for a philosophical change.
A new offensive line coach, moderate success down the stretch (it was night and day compared to the early Zampese offense, which was putrid), and some personnel changes might create the offense that has been sorely lacking the past two seasons to pair with a solid defense.
Lazor didn't accept the status quo when he was handed the reigns on offense. He recently referred to Dalton on the NFL Network as an "ascending talent" and referenced many QBs that had their best seasons in their careers as they approached 30 years of age. If he believes that about Dalton, he will have to dramatically improve the protection, the running game, and the weapons at receiver to help him be successful.
It will be very interesting to see who the starting receivers are next season. I think Ross and Core and excel at X, Boyd and Erickson in the slot, and AJ Green (with Malone backing him up) at the other side. Lafell should not be part of the plans. He simply doesn't take advantage of the matchups provided by Green.
I also hope we see more of Gio and Mixon on the field together and using them both as outlets for Dalton.
If Lazor can make this offense a top 10 unit, I think the defense will respond and do their part. The defense has a few glaring needs at DT and LB, but has the pieces elsewhere to be a solid unit and I like the Austin hiring.
This is the best I can do to try and be optimistic about the upcoming season. Address the offensive line, be aggressive, and start fast.
Mr. Lazor, I put this on your lap. Make me a believer.
A new offensive line coach, moderate success down the stretch (it was night and day compared to the early Zampese offense, which was putrid), and some personnel changes might create the offense that has been sorely lacking the past two seasons to pair with a solid defense.
Lazor didn't accept the status quo when he was handed the reigns on offense. He recently referred to Dalton on the NFL Network as an "ascending talent" and referenced many QBs that had their best seasons in their careers as they approached 30 years of age. If he believes that about Dalton, he will have to dramatically improve the protection, the running game, and the weapons at receiver to help him be successful.
It will be very interesting to see who the starting receivers are next season. I think Ross and Core and excel at X, Boyd and Erickson in the slot, and AJ Green (with Malone backing him up) at the other side. Lafell should not be part of the plans. He simply doesn't take advantage of the matchups provided by Green.
I also hope we see more of Gio and Mixon on the field together and using them both as outlets for Dalton.
If Lazor can make this offense a top 10 unit, I think the defense will respond and do their part. The defense has a few glaring needs at DT and LB, but has the pieces elsewhere to be a solid unit and I like the Austin hiring.
This is the best I can do to try and be optimistic about the upcoming season. Address the offensive line, be aggressive, and start fast.
Mr. Lazor, I put this on your lap. Make me a believer.
![[Image: 4CV0TeR.png]](https://i.imgur.com/4CV0TeR.png)
