I have to say that our O-line was abysmal in the first half. There was always a defender in the backfield on run plays. They did better for some of the second half but for the most part still looked awfully rough. That said, I feel WAY better about the guys we have on the line now versus at any point last year. I thought the O-line had its moments last year too but I think this O-line will just get better and got a good taste Sunday. That really seemed like an "Ah Ha!" game for them. These kids will learn when the guys from last year knew how to do it but physically couldn't get it done. They were playing as good as they ever would.
I like a lot of the adjustments being made by Cigs. I like that TA is finally actually being used and that we appear to have a real elite RB that will get us those yards we simply have to have when the defense knows we are going to run it. And it is also those plays that will sometimes result in no one back to stop Gurley once he breaks through to the second level. Part of the problem with stacking the box is that if the RB breaks through, who is there to stop him?
I am really getting tired of what just looks like a poor effort by Cook. A tight end needs to take advantage of size and strength IMO. And Cook just looks weak in both his desire and owning the ball. That's your ball Cookie. Own it.
Our defense is just plain very good. I didn't like the game from TJ but he had some pretty tough match-ups. I thought the two PI calls were BS so taking those away, our CBs did a great job overall. JL was more than solid. He was a stud.
Now - if the offense progresses - and I think they will - the defense will only get better because they won't be on the field so much and will be able to play looser and more aggressive.
Given what I am seeing throughout the NFL this season - yeah - I still like our chances. And this team in the playoffs? Who wants to discount them or play against them?
