Big Ben is our Future

by dcfan85 on Jan 6, 2008 12:07 AM EST

Not that that's any big news here, but in my opinion, this offseason needs to be spent building around Ben as a passer and not attempting the typical Pittsburgh smashmouth offense in 2008. We've gotten used to running the ball down people's throats, but that's only because we've never really had a QB capable of putting the team on his shoulders the way Ben does (yes, I think he's better than Terry Bradshaw, as heretical as that might be). We need to be set up the way the Pats are - strong receivers that spread out opposing defenses, then a competent back to run sweeps and off-tackle plays (FWP).

We have the greatest weapon at QB of the post-Manning/Brady generation, but we're not gonna get anywhere if we don't give him the tools he needs to get the job done. I'm not as familiar with the free agency and draft pictures as I'd like - anyone on the wishlist to boost our o-line? How about the receiving corps?

As far as our defense goes, we need to get back to rushing the passer and stopping the run. A healthy Troy will be a big part of that as will the return of Aaron Smith. But we can't rely on two guys to do the fundamental work on our defense - we need to amp up our d-line as well as get a little more depth in linebackers. Maybe it's a pipe dream but if UVA DE Chris Long's stock drops a little between here and the draft, we can nab him late in the first round. He dominated the ACC at that position this year and is agile enough to drop back into coverage, and with a little weight loss could serve as an OLB. Our guys aren't getting any younger at that position.

I'm done pontificating - you guys have any other ideas as far as moves we can make in the offseason?

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for me, its all about the lines

If they don't draft mostly offensive and defensive linemen, then I will have a fit. I understand that you want to attack with Ben and I give you that he is very capable of it, but the lines must be given a one or two year upgrade to build depth and talent - they rest can come later, I think. This is especially so if/when Faneca leaves.

Next year is no creampuff schedule like it was this year. I expect a very mediocre season, but I feel that we will have made progress even if we don't make the playoffs if we can develop some line play. I'm sorry - I just don't see the potential for more immediate grand success.

by rushthequarterback on Jan 6, 2008 12:22 AM EST reply actions

yup

I agree, we have to go with what we have. Right now that is some nice tight ends, some good receivers, and an unreliable running game (so lets hike straight to ben!) Our O-line needs some serious overhauling. Lets get the O-line in shape and shore up our defense, and please get rid of bruce. Dick can stay for now.

We need to roll with what we have and build on it though instead of wishing for what we don't have. If we had just kept up our first drive all jags game long we would have ended the game well on top, I think. Did we? No. Right after the drive we go Run Run Pass Punt. Moronic.

Ben needed some work tonight, he was not stellar. That being said, put him behind a solid line and he is going to be amazing.

Oh, and as an aside, I hope that next year it's not a cheer-worthy event when our special teams makes a tackle. Thanks.

by steelguy on Jan 6, 2008 12:25 AM EST reply actions

forget long

long won't be there when we pick but out of the 3 first day picks we have they need to all be linemen either defense or offense. receivers are actually ok. holmes is a game breaker, ward is still solid and steady, dependable and STILL the nfl's biggest warrior. heath miller is also a great option. so we don't need any receivers anytime soon as much as we need some young ass kickers on the defensive line as all three starters are over 30 and we need to get a replacement for larry foote at inside linebacker. he is their biggest liability against the run. foote has a lot of heart and gets the most out of his limited ability but he needs to be replaced. they may move timmons there but farrior can't last forever and his replacement needs to be in place soon.

fan in korea

by steel town76 on Jan 6, 2008 12:49 AM EST reply actions

spot on

The only thing I'd add is that I'd like to see them active in free agency this year, too, but only for depth and on-the-cheap. The special teams fiasco can be improved by improving overall depth - not a few great guys, please - rather, a bunch of okay guys, that are hungry. These should be "Tomlin" guys.

by rushthequarterback on Jan 6, 2008 12:57 AM EST up reply actions