Sweet Lou, Week Two

[*SHRacerX*]

(09-16-2021, 03:53 PM)GreenCornBengal Wrote: A trend from the last two years that I’m hoping we cleanse this Sunday is our week 2 woes on defense. In both years, we came in and looked great week 1, but took major steps back in week 2.

2019, kept russel in check most the game and I remember we were very excited by the defense that day despite the loss. We got demolished by the 49ers the following week. (They did go on to the Super Bowl and was a great team that year.)

2020, held the Chargers in check with a strong defensive effort. Then week 2 let Mayfield and the Browns drop 35 on us… the infamous late game drive where the D looked helpless if I remember correctly. (Browns were a great team last year as well, can’t forget.)

So, week 1 of 2021, defense looks great. But can Lou have this defense ready to stay on track in week 2? Is Lou better on a longer planning period (week 1, post bye week games) which then doesn’t translate to regular weeks?

Loved week 1 and how the defense looked, let’s see if they can maintain the momentum into week 2. For the record, I think they do, this years D is different.

I wondered how much of that was a conditioning issue in 2019, seeing the massive drop off in energy, but a lot of it was SF knew that the Bengals couldn't cover sideline to sideline, and they exploited it.  That, and the incredibly STUPID decision to wear the black jerseys in 90 degree heat.  

As far as 2020, it was a short week and both teams gave up a lot of points.  

They are healthier and they have more depth to rotate players in.  I hope we see more of Sample and Hodge on passing downs to keep them all fresh.  Dalton struggles with pressure in his face (who doesn't) and he doesn't have the speed to get away from the edge rushers.