1st half observations (saints game)

[barrett]

The whole offense was obviously fantastic.

I was very concerned about James Casey but not anymore. They were far smarter about using him than I thought. I figured casey at FB meant we would have casey trying to be leach. But by splitting him out early and throwing 2 passes to him right away, they made the saints account for him. Then the rest of the game, anytime they motioned him out, a LB went with him and that is the best blocking job a man can do. Especially with a guy like Foster who thrives on space. And he has yet to miss a block when they do leave him in. I am a believer now.

The defense got pressure which was nice. We still can't cover. But that's better than not covering and not pressuring.

We have an extremely tall front 7 and someone has obviously coached them up about getting there hands up. Good to see.

Cushing looked bad early. Not bad later in the half. Adibi looked bad against the run. Unless Ryans and Cushing really play well our pass defense will be about 100 yards a game improved from last season because nobody will have to pass against us.

Mario looked much more comfortable, but had little impact. I think he made a mistake in asking for the switch. Watt and Smith are making plenty of plays out of this style 34. Everybody is getting up the field, even the DL. Mario would probably have been more of an impact player at DE. As it is, he looks a little unnecessary out there to me. Not bad, but not Mario williams good. I would deal him right now if some 43 team would make a great offer.

Glover Quinn looked very good at FS. Had plenty of pop and filled the alley well. I am not as worried about his tackling/size after tonight.

And ben tate looked really good. Not sure what we will do with him, but he looks like a real RB. It should make Foster's contract negotiations go easier on us if nothing else.

And Foster is just as patient and smooth as last year. Amazing for a guy with his size/speed.