[JoeRedskin]

Points we all agree on:

1: Last Years D sucked and, as part of that: a) The line put on no pressure; b) Our LB's were pushed around and pretty much non-factors in both run and pass defense; and our secondary was often out of position and, even when in position, didn't have the horses to run with the big dogs (ahhh mixed metaphors, gotta love'em - this year we're gonnna ring their clocks).

2: We have taken significant steps to improve our secondary.

3. With the addition of Fletcher and the good reports on Rocky, there is reason to hope that our LB play will be greatly improved.

4. JC's play at QB is likely the key to the offense.

Points upon which there is a divergence of opinion:

1. The DL will be fine this year. Essentially, as has been pointed out by others, the coaches clearly made the choice to upgrade the back 7 as opposed to the front 4. The point of contention, it seems to me, is whether or not this was a mistake b/c I think it unreasonable to try and entirely revamp/replace all three elements of the D. I think the DL will be fine but unspectacular. Not sure I trust GW as much as I used to, mainly b/c of his relieance on older players to start on the line. But you never know - three years ago we went into the season and GW said "trust me - AP can do the job". He was right. Maybe it went to his head and he was sure he could make anyone into a star. Maybe last year knocked him down a notch. Maybe, maybe maybe...

I think, when it comes to the DL, we are all crossing our fingers and hoping GW isn't talking out his butt when he says it will be fine. I hope he is right and, I choose to believe (at this point anyway), that last year was an anomaly in his coaching career and that, this year, he will return to the ranks of respected D-Cood's.