07-30-2020, 07:58 PM
(07-30-2020, 06:22 PM)fredtoast Wrote: First of all we have to realize that over the last two seasons our defense has been the worst in team history. Even worse than at anytime in the 90's. So even if we make a big jump it may only be to the middle of the pack.
-The way Dunlap played the second half of last year age is not a problem with him. I don't know about Geno.
-I honestly don't think we have improved our pass coverage by replacing Kirkpatrick and Dennard with Waynes and McKenzie. But at least Waynes and McKenzie have been able to stay healthy. Waynes is an upgrade in tackling, but pass coverage is much more important in CBs.
-Reader and Bell are great additions. Prossibly the best free agent signings in team history.
-Pratt will be the break out player of the year. I like the guys we drafted, but I believe Pratt will have a much bigger impact this year.
-Bynes is a career back up we signed signed off the scrap pile. I don't expect him to help any. Hopefully the rookies will step up so we don't have to depend on him.
-Hubbard looks like he is developing into a very solid player. He may never be a huge star, but the kind of guy you can build around.
-Guys like William Jackson and Jesse Bates have looked better than they did last year. Don't know what all the problems were, but I amnot asking for them to take their game to another level. I am just hoping the bring it back to a level they have already shown.
-Coaching is still just a big question mark. That could be the difference between this defense being good or sucking again.
Lots of questions, but I am pretty sure we will improve. The question is how much.
Agree with everything but Bynes of course. Think Bynes will help the young Linebackers out a lot which is underrated.
The Linebackers have been the biggest reason why this Defense has been so bad lately. They didn't tackle or cover well and
were out of position lots of the time. Coaching is definitely a big reason for this. We will see how Golden does, our new LB
coach.
Hubbard I think could be a star, he uses his hands so well and has great quickness and moves. He is so versatile.
(07-30-2020, 07:18 PM)masonbengals fan Wrote: Just middle of the pack would be a big upgrade. Have to think Reader will help Geno immediately get back into his groove.
That is a big deal having a very good DT next to Geno to take up blockers who isn't a one trick pony.
Reader is a great run stopper and can rush the passer. He is what I thought Billings could of grown into.
