By: Chipshot

Chipshot — Tue, 07 Aug 2012 23:55:00 +0000

After 12 days of camp let’s take a peek at what we do know at this early point of the preseason. There are a few areas that already elicit skepticism.
Quarterback:
Should we really be concerned or excited about what we have seen in practice? I find it difficult to evaluate a young, unproven QB when he has been wearing a red ‘no hit” jersey. How will Gabbert respond when he becomes a live target? We will certainly know more about his ability to make rapid decisions, his ability to handle a pass rush & stand in the pocket as preseason moves forward.
Running Backs:
No major concerns in this area if the current stable of RB’s remain healthy.
MJD is not a prerequisite for this team to have a solid running game. In a QB / passing oriented league the ground game will be solid if the offense can move the ball in the air.
Offensive Line:
Can this line stay healthy? Currently it does not appear they will survive or even start the season intact.
Defensive Line / Defensive Backs:
Who is going to put pressure on the opposing QB’s & make sacks? Maybe Branch can step up as a rookie & make some big plays. The DB’s always seem to be the scapegoats when the opponent has success in the air. I think many forget that without pressure upfront from the DL the DB’s are going to appear inadequate. The Jags DB’s will be a solid group if they get any support form the front end of the defense.
Wide Receivers:
This area has to be the main focal point of concern. Robinson has had 1 productive year in the league. Shorts has shown speed, questionable route running, & the ability to drop as many balls as he seems to catch. We have seen Mike Thomas so we know what we have in #80. Now that Blackmon is in camp many are placing huge expectations on the rookie. If the past is any indicator of the success of rookie WR’s maybe we shouldn’t become wildly excited. The NFL involves a maturation process for even the premier WR’s coming from the NCAA ranks. Blackmon’s strength in college was YAC (yards after catch). The Jags need to get Blackmon the ball on short routes & let him run. The piece of the puzzle that appears to be missing is the speedy WR that can stretch the field & help take pressure off of Gabbert in the pocket.
Final Thoughts Blackmon & MJD:
All the talk has centered around Blackmon & MJD. Now that Blackmon has reported to work let’s give the rookie time to develop & only place realistic expectations upon him during his inaugural season. The common belief is that MJD is the key ingredient of the offense. I see no reason for the team or the fans to be concerned with MJD still being on vacation. His 1606 yds. last season helped the Jags finish at 5-11 last season. Do we really want MJD to put up similar numbers this yr. & finish with another embarrassing record. The NFL is a passing league & the teams that win throw the football. Do we want to see MJD run, run, run or do we want to play like the teams that appear in Super Bowls & pass the ball.

By: Bradbarrell

Bradbarrell — Tue, 07 Aug 2012 18:37:00 +0000

Great information, good read!

Comments on: Questions After 12 Days of Camp

By: Chipshot

By: Bradbarrell