We’ve got three pre-season games in the books, with one meaningless exhibition to go. But, at this point the majority of Atlanta’s off-season questions have been answered, maybe not in total, but the direction is certainly there.
- Who will be the starting QB? As we all know by now rookie QB Matt Ryan is the starter. He has looked sharp and poised in the pocket. He made a very bad throw against Indianapolis that resulted in a pick 6, but for the most part, he has looked good…and he is the future, so why not….My only concern is that defensive coordinators are not really game planning too much in the pre-season and that things are going to look different come September.
- The O-line has played better than expected. OT Sam Baker has held his own against opposing defensive end’s, but I’m certain that defenses are going to be aiming their blitz packages towards his side to open the season. The line has done an excellent job opening up holes for the running backs against decent competition so far….
- Who will play defensive tackle? Looks like DT Grady Jackson and a cast of others will be rotated in.
- Who will be the starting cornerbacks? Second year man Chris Houston and undrafted free agent CB Brent Grimes are looking like your starting cornerbacks. Start your opposing wide receivers against these guys.
- RB Mike Turner has definitely been living up the hype in the pre-season. He had two 50+ yard runs in the first quarter against Indy. If you can get him as your #3 back you should be in great shape, but with the lack of depth at the position, most everyone is going to be using him as a #2. I expect decent yardage, but perhaps only 7 scores this year as the offensive line and the quarterback take some time to gel and gain experience.
That’s it for the preseason. I’ll return next week with a preview of week #1!
