[Chico23231]

Originally Posted by JoeRedskin

Well, I think most talking heads see both the Giants and Cowboys as stronger teams that, barring injury, will continue to improve - particularly the Cowboys b/c of the Dak/Zeke element (which also makes good press/clicks).

We have a really tough schedule logistically, lots of travel to the west coast and no extended home stands (most consecutive games at home is two late in the season, otherwise it rotates home/away throughout the season).

While we believe that we have improved our roster, the improvements are not the kind that jump out all at once. We are starting two new safeties - one who has yet to play it on a regular basis at the pro-level and one who, though highly drafted, has bounced through four teams in his first five years. Last year, generally, we lacked play makers on defense. On offense, we let our starting WR's walk and replaced them with a guy who couldn't get on the field last year and converted QB who most consider still very raw in the new position. Add in the offseason drama and this is a team that - to paraphrase the old adage - only a died-in-the-burgundy-wool fan could love.

Bottom line is that until the Skins show the ability to be consistent winners from year to year, they will always be picked to lose.

Joe, two winning seasons back to back though?