Ask Jim Owczarski

[McC]

(03-26-2018, 04:49 PM)jowczarski Wrote: Well, we're not allowed in the building at this point but obviously just in talking to guys - a lot of optimism in house. But they know they're not done with the OL. So there is an air of 'not satisfied' - which is important for a team that's missed the playoffs the last two years. I do think coaches need that time together, but this is what they do so I think it comes together a bit quicker than most. I think this will be the case offensively - Lazor hired two guys and chose to keep Caskey and Hayes. So I feel he's running. Austin will be interesting. His entire staff was handed to him, so that may take some time ... but I guess we'll see how that plays out in camp/preseason. 

Yeah, Pollack has the toughest task by far. Not only can he not work with his guys at all until April, he can't put them in pads. He can't let 'em hit or block. It's definitely a hurry up and wait situation there.

I guess I can't get optimistic or pessimistic. Last year I predicted an 8-8 season because I had no faith in the OL. They finished 7-9 and nearly made the playoffs if not for two blown halftime leads vs. GB and Pitt. (So I was right :-D). But I also said they were a 10-win team if the OL was even average. I'm going to stick with that for now, just based on the healthy talent on paper. 10 wins. When I make my official prediction we'll have a better idea of the OL, Lazor's offense, Austin's defense...but to me, it's playoff talent. 

Thank you for your most excellent answers to my vague and rambling questions.  Great job, as always.  So cool of you to do what you do here.