Battle Tested

[*SHRacerX*]

(01-22-2023, 01:53 PM)THE PISTONS Wrote: I think a lot is in our favor, but missing 3 lineman is a big variable too.

Agreed.  And I did a breakdown showing the ratings for the replacement linemen vs. the ones they replaced.  The biggest loss in terms of pass blocking is Cappa.  He was very cerebral and worked so well with Karras.  That being said, Sharping in an NFL vet and is the best backup we have and shouldn't have much drop off in the run game.  

Carman, for all his warts, is probably quite a bit stronger than Williams.  He rarely, if ever, gets bullrushed, but we have seen that happen to Williams repeatedly.  He is playing the position he has more snaps at than any other in his career.  The Bengals say he has been taking snaps in practice all year at both Guard and Tackle.  It's his 23rd Birthday.  This is a huge chance for him to prove he belongs at LT.  It could be HUGE for the Bengals to not have to pay Jonah and stick with Carman.  He's young and inexperienced at the pro level, but he might just prove everyone wrong.  Especially those that made him switch to guard. 

Adeniji is probably a more consistent pass blocker than Collins, although no where near the mauler Collins is in the run game.  

So, in summary, the only real big drop off I see is with Sharping compared to Cappa in pass blocking.  Sharping is a big dude and can move people in the run game.  The Bengals might have a better run blocker in Carman over Williams and Adeniji is better (or at least more consistent in pass blocking).  

We know protecting Joe is job one.  If Carman can avoid getting off balance and being speed rushed inside, he should be at least as solid as Williams in pass pro.  Adeniji could be better., and Sharping is a vet with playoff experience.  I don't think the 3 backups are as bad as it would be if they lost the top 3 weapons.  I have faith that Zac and Brian will have a plan and Joe will execute it.