NFL 2015 NFL Team Previews

[Exe Gesis]

Below you will find each NFL team's 2015 preview as written by various bigfooty personalities.

Those writing the preview, just post in this thread.

AFC EAST
Bills Woodson
Patriots GG - Link
Jets ausbacker - Link
Dolphins Dixie Flatline

AFC NORTH
Steelers AmericanCrow - Link
Ravens Keyser Soze
Bengals son of meto
Browns drd23 - Link

AFC SOUTH
Colts Galactic - Link
Texans Shupe
Titans bgt2110 - Link
Jaguars TheGreatBarryB - Link

AFC WEST
Broncos fuey - Link
Raiders Brasher - Link
Chargers LicoriceAllsorts - Link
Chiefs peterbuch74

NFC EAST
Eagles Dagless
Giants nobbyiscool - Link
Cowboys rumply
Washington Chism

NFC NORTH
Packers Sven - Link
Bears balmainforever
Lions raven echo
Vikings GreyWind - Link

NFC SOUTH
Saints quotemokc - Link
Falcons JeffDunne
Panthers superfreak
Buccaneers Bucking Beads

NFC WEST
49ers Blacky - Link
Seahawks larkis
Rams Wizard
Cardinals gaskin

 

[Exe Gesis]

Those interested in doing the empty slots, post in this thread which team you'd like, but you ideally dislike the team you're doing, or are not a fan of that team. But you have to write an objective and serious preview.

And if anyone I've already tagged doesn't want to do it at all, or would like a different team, just post here.

There is no standard format to follow when writing a preview, be creative, whatever way you prefer to do it....but again, do it genuinely, write enough for it to be a proper preview.

In the end, when I've got all 32 team previews posted in this thread, I'll add a direct link in the OP to the specific post so people can find it easier.

 

[fuey]

Denver Broncos


Winning a division crown at 12-4 with a wildcard loss doesn't usually spell doom for a coach, but after four relatively successful seasons in Denver, John Fox and the Broncos agreed to part ways. In comes ex-Texans HC Gary Kubiak (and also long-time backup QB in Denver), OC Rick Dennison and DC Wade Phillips.


There's a definite adjustment period here, on both sides of the ball, with Kubiak/Dennison bringing in a run heavy, zone-blocking offense. Peyton Manning is more than capable of running any offense you can throw at him, though adjustments between QB and system still need to be made as the offense is designed for QBs that are usually more mobile than Peyton. Defense has also switched back to a 3-4, Phillips is known for being quite an aggressive blitzer but transitions of this kind aren't always easy.


Offense


Quarterback- Peyton Manning is the obvious starter, and the Broncos have have gotten everything they wanted from him short of a Lombardi Trophy since signing him. Peyton clearly has a sharp mind, and his pre-snap abilities keep him inside the top 5 QBs in the league. That being said, after sustaining a lower leg injury mid season, people saw Manning look human. Now 39, not even the bravest of Bronco fans can claim with 100% surety that Peyton injury woes are behind him.

Should Peyton happen to be injured, the Broncos are limited in options, Brock Osweiler has never really distinguished himself since being drafted in the second round of 2012, as one would of hoped out of such a high pick. Perhaps a change of system will see better results. Zac Dysert (2013 7th) and Trevor Siemian (2015 7th) will battle it out for the #3 QB. QB coach Brian Callahan hasn't shown any real ability in developing Qbs in six years, so one would assume his position may be under the microscope if not for a good showing this year.


Runningback- Someone needs to tell Montee Ball that its not 1a and 1b, its just 1, with a little of 2. CJ Anderson will be leant on to power the offense for season 2015, as they did down the stretch last year 646yds and 8 TDs over the last seven weeks of the regular season. That being said, Anderson is still what you'd call unproven, and defenses have now had an 9 weeks of game film and and off-season to work him out. Anderson's success may make or break the offense. Montee Ball showed flashes as a rookie, but didn't grab the opportunity (to start) with two hands in 2014. Injured in week 4, only appeared in one game for the rest of the season. Ronnie Hillman is the #3, could possibly challenge for the backup position. That being said, if Anderson does not perform as many expect, it could be a rotational situation with whoever has the hot hand getting the most carries in any given week. Juwan Thompson, Jeremy Stewart and Kapri Bibbs round out the camp bodies, holdovers from last year.

Wide Receivers- Demaryius Thomas got paid like a top wideout in July, and deservedly so. He can put up numbers with any QB in any system. Free agent pickup Emmanuel Sanders excelled with Peyton throwing the ball at him, though it'll be tough to get close to last years numbers given the change in offensive philosophy. Ex-Bengal Andre Caldwell was signed as the new #3 and 2014 holdovers Cody Latimer and Jordan Norwood round out the receiving corp. Bennie Fowler, Isaiah Burse, Solomon Patton, Nathan Palmer, Corbin Louks and Jordan Taylor are all in camp but would surprise to make the 53. Overall, it's a good young group with plenty of potential, but Manning's arm strength limitations deny us seeing DT et al beat DBs downfield too often, so they probably get underrated a fair bit.


Tight Ends- It was decided not to retain Julius Thomas after the 2014 season, It was both a good and bad decision, Thomas wasn't worth nor could they really afford to pay him the money he wanted. That being said, athletic deep threats at the TE position are hard to come by and surrounding the next QB with talent is important in a smooth transition. So, the long-term was mortgaged for short-term success, and Owen Daniels was signed from the Ravens, and Casey from the Eagles. Both are solid possession receivers and blockers, with little game-breaking ability. BUT, the projected starter is Virgil Green, who is similar to Thomas, but without as much natural talent, he's got good hands and should be an adequate replacement, without anyone forgetting who Julius Thomas is. Jeff Heuerman was also drafted, but tore his ACL in May, to be placed on IR.


Offensive Line- Disastrous start for the Broncos in May losing Ryan Clady for the season to another knee injury during mini-camp, after losing starting guard Orlando Franklin during free-agency. The holdovers are RT Chris Clark, and RG Louis Vasquez. Clark has never played a full season though, and looks to have moved to the left side to back up 2nd round Ty Sambrailo. Vasquez hasn't missed a game in 3-seasons, and will have to be the lynch-pin of this plug-and-play Offensive line. Ryan Harris was re-signed for his second stint as a Bronco, after stops in Philly, Houston and Kansas City. Another solid performer, but 5 teams in four years isn't really a glowing endorsement for any player, he'll possibly man the RT, but could switch to the left if Sambrailo struggles. The front-runners at C and LG are 2014 6th rounder Matt Paradis and 2015 4th Max Garcia. Both are unknowns at this point though. Gino Gradkowski (acquired via trade from Baltimore), and Shelly Smith who was signed as a free agent from Miami were bought in for interior depth. Collectively its a unit that is probably going to struggle given the new faces, all while needing to find some consistency. Michael Schofield, Ben Garland and college FA Andre Davis seem to be the most likely backups entering the season. But I expect some movement as the coaching staff works at getting their best 5 linemen on the first team.


Defensive Line- As stated previously, the transition to a 3-4 isn't usually an easy easy one. Signed during the FA period were Vance Walker and Antonio Smith, experienced 34 Ends, although Derek Wolfe and Malik Jackson are/were expected to start. Wolfe is now suspended for the opening 4 games for PED use. Antonio Smith is also under investigation for child abuse, so its anyone's guess who the starters will be Week 1. 2013 first rounder Syslveter Williams is expected to man the nose after Terrance Knighton left for Washington. Williams is undersized for a traditional NT, but there's talent there to work with. Journeyman Marvin Austin is probably the backup, but is carrying an injury keeping him out of practice. Darius Kilgo, a 6th rd pick battles Gerald Rivers, Josh Watson and Chuka Ndulue for the last roster position.


Outside Linebackers- DeMarcus Ware and Von Miller are one of the more formiddable pass rushing duos in the NFL. Ware was good as a DE, but is more natural OLB so I'd expect both Miller and Ware to put up big numbers under the Phillips system. Ware's age is a concern though, and the Broncos drafted his eventual replacement in the first round, Shane Ray. Ray is still a bit of a project, but he has two excellent mentors, and should provide some good depth in his first year without the pressure of having to produce as a full time starter right off the bat. There's a number of holdover CFAs on the roster to battle it out for the 4th/5th OLB spots, none of any real significance, Lerentee McCray probably the most likely, though Shaquil Barrett and Zaire Anderson have made a little noise in training camp.


Inside Linebackers- Danny Trevathan and Brandon Marshall can be a good solid pair of inside backers for the Broncos. Marshall emerged in Trevathan's absence last season after his (Trevathan's) breakout season in '13. They should both be good to go come week one, the only question being how long it takes to gel on the same field. Competing backups are Reggie Walker, Danny Mason, '14 5th Lammin Barrow, Steven Johnson, Todd Davis and Corey Nelson. Obviously the team needs two or three to separate themselves during pre-season.


Cornerback- The Broncos seem to have an embarrassment of riches at Cornerback. Chris Harris is one of the more underrated performers in the NFL, and while not in the Sherman/Revis conversation could be there very very soon (and a bargain this season @ $3M). Aqib Talib, while a good corner in his own right, does get it a whole lot easier because of Harris. Nickel Corner is 2014 first rounder Bradley Roby, who had a good rookie season without standing out. Veteran backup Tony Carter can start in a pinch. 5th round pick Lorenzo Doss has flashed early, and Kayvon Webster (2013 3rd) is still on the roster after a quiet sophmore season.


Safety- TJ Ward has been a pro-bowler in consecutive seasons with different teams, so it's reasonable to think his quality play should continue. Coaches are high on FA signee Darian Stewart from Baltimore They're convince they have one of the best Safety pairings in the league. David Bruton should hold down one backup position, as he's also the ST captain. Omar Bolden looks to have the inside track at backup FS, also leading the race as punt returner. CB Tony Carter also adds value by backing up both Safety spots.


Special Teams- Connor Barth and Brandon McManus are currently fighting it out to be the teams kicker in 2015. McManus was 9/13 before being replaced by Barth for the last 5 games. Barth went 15/16. Barth is probably in pole position for the job, given he is more accurate from range. Noone was bought in to challenge Colquitt, so it's safe to assume he'll be their punter. Has had a very consistent start to his career.


Schedule- There's no real easy stretch for the Broncos unfortunately. All three September games could potentially be a loss. Minnesota and Oakland are improving and November is a nightmare with the Packers, @ Colts, Chiefs and Patriots. Only really home against one warm-weather team post-Nov 1, so it negates some advantage the team can have.


End of the day

The Broncos have the talent to make another run in the AFC. A strong D will have them in every game, and if the offense is efficient at worst, the division crown should be theirs. BUT, I do worry about the offensive line and its ability to open holes as well as protect Manning. Manning's release will cover some cracks, but even a half second deterioration in Manning could be critical. Depth in the front seven is key to a lot of recent Championship defenses, which is something the Broncos don't really have.


10-6, Divisional Champs, out in WC.

 

[GreyWind]

Minnesota Vikings

Positives: Where to start for the Vikes? They are a team loaded with talent under the tutelage of a very good head coach in Mike Zimmer and have their star running back returning to lighten the load on franchise hope Teddy Bridgewater.

1. Mike Zimmer: Zimmer is a very good coaches don’t worry about that. He was one of the few defensive coordinators that has been able to give Aaron Rodgers consistent trouble and if the Vikes want to be kings of the North then they have to overcome Green Bay.​

2. Teddy Bridgewater: Bridgewater is coming of a very nice rookie season in which he was named QB of the All-Rookie team. The most impressive thing was his high completion percentage and improved decision making down the stretch while having an underwhelming receiving core.​

3. Adrian Peterson: Peterson returns for the 2015 campaign after what was a 2014 to forget for him. While a year older Peterson also missed a year of football and the rigours that come with training and playing so he should be fresh. I imagine that Peterson will still be the bell-cow but will give Bridgewater soft coverages to take advantage of.​

4. Defensive talent: Make no mistake this Vikings team is loaded with defensive talent. There is the defensive line duo of Sharrif Floyd and Everson Griffen, 2nd year linebacker Anthony Barr and veteran Chad Greenway, All-Pro Harrison Smith and shut-down CB Xavier Rhodes. Not to mention the inclusion of Terence Newman and rookies Eric Kendricks and Trae Waynes.​

Negatives: The main thing with the Vikings is can they make the leap into the upper echelon of teams within the NFC a group that is top heavy with the Seahawks, Cowboys, Packers and Cardinals all looking the goods. Is their depth capable of stepping up?

1. Offensive skill talent: Outside of Bridgewater and Peterson the Vikings are really lacking at the wide receiver and tight end position. Wallace is a one trick pony, Johnson is still very raw, Patterson has been a massive disappointment, Rudolph is above average and there is no 4th wide receiver or a 2nd running option behind Peterson.​

2. Offensive line depth: Kalil, Sullivan and Loadholt are very good players. The problems stem from the guys behind them and guards Fusco and Harris are average. If any serious injuries or form slumps were to occur it could seriously hamper this already shaky offensive group.​

3. Being in the NFC: While not a knock on the team, it’s a negative for them considering the strength of the teams above them and the quality that they will be competing with for a Wild Card spot. The Seahawks, Cowboys, Packers and Panthers are all favourites to win their divisions leaving Wild Card spots open for the Cardinals, Eagles, Giants, Rams, Lions and the Falcons. It’s a tough group where mistakes can’t be made.​

Prognosis: At the moment I have the Vikings in the 6-10 win range. They have a terrible start facing Detroit, San Diego, at Denver, Kansas City (after the bye) and finishing at Detroit. That’s a tough 5 game period there which could either set up or derail their season very quickly. Their run home isn’t any easier with Green Bay, at Atlanta, Seattle, at Arizona, New York Giants and at Green Bay in a 7 week run home. There is every chance that the Vikings secure a Wild Card playoff spot this year, but I don’t see it happening this year. Next year is their year.

 

[Exe Gesis]

Truly superb effort fuey
Especially the bit about "out in WC"

Likewise GreyWind -- top-notch effort

 

[fuey]

Truly superb effort fuey
Especially the bit about "out in WC"

I don't think our resident Bronco fans have the attention span to read that far... that's why I slipped it in at the end!

 

[Exe Gesis]

I don't think our resident Bronco fans have the attention span to read that far... that's why I slipped it in at the end!

It's good to keep them lulled, or is it lol'd, into a false sense of security.

 

[peterbuch74]

It's good to keep them lulled, or is it lol'd, into a false sense of security.

Coming from the Raiders fan

 

[Woodson]

I don't think our resident Bronco fans have the attention span to read that far... that's why I slipped it in at the end!

FYI Fuey: peterbuch74 claimed Round 1 in week 7 last year: 86-78.

 

[Dirty Bird]

Saints
Old, slow, useless, 0-16 bound.....Maybe 4-12 if Brees has a career year. ****, the rest of that team stinks.

That's all you're getting out of me. I'm not doing a proper one.........MAYBE Detroit at the end of the pre-season if Kellen Moore has a good 4 games

 

[Woodson]

Saints
Old, slow, useless, 0-16 bound.....Maybe 4-12 if Brees has a career year. ****, the rest of that team stinks.

That's all you're getting out of me. I'm not doing a proper one.........MAYBE Detroit at the end of the pre-season if Kellen Moore has a good 4 games

Not surprised by this: GG has more to answer for this than DB.

 

[LicoriceAllsorts]

How can we be out in the WC when we aren't going to be playing in the WC?

Anyway, there was an attempt, fuey

 

[Exe Gesis]

Not surprised by this: GG has more to answer for this than DB.

quotemokc step in

 

[quotemokc]

quotemokc step in

I'll see what I can come up with tonight.

 

[larkis]

Saints Seahawks
Old, slow, useless, 0-16 bound.....Maybe 4-12 if Brees Wilson has a career year. ****, the rest of that team stinks.

That's all you're getting out of me. I'm not doing a proper one.........MAYBE Detroit at the end of the pre-season if Kellen Moore has a good 4 games when I stop rosterbating over my CT team.

 

[LicoriceAllsorts]

San Diego Chargers 2015-16 Season Preview

Following a disappointing 9-7 season, which saw them start 5-1 before missing the playoffs for the 4th time in 5 years, the San Diego Chargers made a number of additions which should help bolster their roster, in what some believe is their last chance to get a ring with QB Philip Rivers at the helm.

In the Free Agency period, the Chargers were able to acquire former Broncos OG Orlando Franklin, as well as both WR Jacoby Jones, a stud special teamer, and DT Ricardo Mathews, both of whom will add depth at their respective positions. On the other hand, the Chargers were unable to hold onto SS Marcus Gilchrist, RB Ryan Matthews, and WR Eddie Royal, however the loss of Matthews shouldn't harm the running game too much, as they added RB Melvin Gordan out of Wisconsin, with the 15th pick of the Draft. If Gordan is able to mesh with fellow backs Branden Oliver and Danny Woodhead, then the Chargers would be able to form a solid run game - one of their downfalls last season, as they were ranked 30th in rushing yards, in vast comparison to their top 15 rank from the 2013-14 season.

Should the Chargers once again fail to create a formidable run game, they will still have a more than serviceable receiving corps to help Rivers along the way. Headlined by TE Antonio Gates, San Diego's receiving offense ranked 10th last season, and if they want to return to their 6th best status from the previous season, then they will need to look towards WR Keenun Allen to try and outdo his rookie season performance, in which he raked in 1,046 yds and 8 TD's.

Overall, San Diego's offensive performance will boil down to how their O-line holds up. Bringing in Orland Franklin should help both pass protection and run blocking, two elements which will be key in helping Philip Rivers maintain his high level of play over the past two seasons. If Rivers is able to replicate this level of play, then San Diego is able to beat anyone on any given Sunday.


On the defensive side of the ball, the loss of Marcus Gilchrist should be softened by the promotion of Jahleel Addae to first string. The promising young safety will be looking to prove his worth after going undrafted just two years ago. The defense is the strength of this team, ranked 4th in passing yds allowed, if they are able to improve their relatively weak run defense, then they could certainly cement themselves as at top 5 defense. In order to do this, there will need to be continued improvement from their young LB group, as well as a D-line boasting one of the most underrated players in the league - Corey Liuget.

The drafting of LB Denzel Perryman (2nd rnd) and CB Craig Mager (3rd rnd) should add significant depth to both the defense and special teams, who will be strengthened by aforementioned Jacoby Jones, adding the x-factor that this team may need to take it to the next level.



As stated, it was a disappointing season for the Chargers in 2014, as they failed to live up to the hype that they themselves created. After once again starting the season strong, they were unable to continue the push towards the playoffs, finishing off the last 10 games 4-6. It will be a focus of the Chargers to finish off the season strong, and I see their season coming down to the last game in Denver, where they will fight for the division title.

Schedule Prediction:

Wk 1. vs. Det - W - 28-17
Wk 2. @ Cin - L - 17-13
Wk 3. @ Min - W - 31-20
Wk 4. vs. Cle - W - 35-13
Wk 5. vs. Pit - W - 24-17
Wk 6. @ GB - L - 35-14
Wk 7. vs. Oak - L - 14-10
Wk 8. @ Bal - L - 27-17
Wk 9. vs. Chi - W - 24-9
Wk 10. Bye
Wk 11. vs. KC - L - 23-14
Wk 12. @ Jax - W - 30-6
Wk 13. vs. Den - W - 27-21
Wk 14. @ KC - W - 21-10
Wk 15. vs. Mia - W - 24-16
Wk 16. @ Oak - W - 31-13
Wk 17. @ Den - L - 34-20
​

At the end of the day, a 10-6 record won't be enough to win the AFC West, or make the playoffs. A loss at Denver in week 17 will see the end of another disappointing season and possibly the end of an era in San Diego.

 

[Exe Gesis]

LicoriceAllsorts great write up. You guys are raising the bar with each preview.

 

[fuey]

How can we be out in the WC when we aren't going to be playing in the WC?

Anyway, there was an attempt, fuey

I thought it was quite fair and unbiased!

 

[LicoriceAllsorts]

I thought it was quite fair and unbiased!

It was pretty good, just the part where we don't win the Super Bowl was the only downfall

 

[Blacky]

49ers

2014 8-8 (3rd NFC West)

It would be remiss of me to do this preview and not discuss the turnover in personnel. In what many have called the offseason from hell they have experienced not only a high turnover, but in many cases it has centred around bizarre circumstances.

Offseason Moves

Departures

Josh Johnson
Frank Gore
Michael Crabtree - Raiders
Mike Iupati - Cardinals
Dan Skuta
Chris Culliver
Perrish Cox
Patrick Willis - Retired
Stevie Johnson
Chris Borland - Retired
Jonathan Martin
Trindon Holliday
Justin Smith - Retired
Anthony Davis - Retired
Aldon Smith - Idiot
Jim Harbaugh - Coach

Signings

Desmond Bishop
Garrett Celek
Darnell Dockett
Jerome Simpson
Reggie Bush
Phillip Wheeler
Torrey Smith
Jim Tomsula - Coach

Draft

Arik Armstead
Position: 3-4 DE
Blacky Draft Grade C-

Jaquiski Tartt
Position S
Blacky Draft Grade D-

Eli Harold
Position OLB
Blacky Draft Grade A

Blake Bell
Position TE
Blacky Draft Grade C

Mike Davis
Position RB
Blacky Draft Grade B

DeAndre Smelter
Position WR
Blacky Draft Grade B-

Bradley Pinion
Position P
Blacky Draft Grade C

Ian Silberman
Position G
Blacky Draft Grade C-

Trenton Brown
Position OL
Blacky Draft Grade B+

Rory Anderson
Position TE
Blacky Draft Grade D

Overall Grade C-

Hard to believe this team is essentially one year removed from three consecutive Conference Championships. Even more hard to believe is how many starters they retain from those years. Staley, Kaepernick, Brooks, Boone, Miller, Davis, Bownan are all that remain.

Projected Starters

Offense

WR2:Smith LT:Staley LG:Boone C:Looney RG:Martin RTears TEavis WR1:Boldin

QB:Kaepernick
FB:Miller
RB:Hyde

Defense

FS:Reid SS:LBethea
LCB:Brock RCB:Wright
OLB:Lynch ILB:Bowman ILB:Skov OLB:Brooks
DE:Armstead DTockett DEorsey

Overall the roster isn’t as bad as you would think at first glance. Bethea and Reid are an excellent Safety pairing. Brock and Wright are questionable. Linebackers are decent and there is talent in the DL. On offense their WRs are probably the best they have had in a few years. However they are going to struggle much more to run the football, with Davis and Iupati (not to mention Gore) gone.

Probably the most concerning thing for the 9ers is the state of their division. Rams, Hawks and Cards all have a lot of young talent and high grade defences. They are really going to struggle to get traction in the division when they have to face these guys.

Aside from the question marks on the field are the question marks in the front office. Baalke has proven to be one of the worse GM’s going around, while Tomlusa is an unknown commodity at best.

9ers still have quite a few quality players, but will struggle to be a threat for the next few years unless they see significant improvement from their youngsters (I am also sceptical that Kap is the answer).

Prediction: 6-10 4th in NFC West

Light at the end of the tunnel is that Bowman is back and Anthony Davis has said that he will be back next year. Hopefully The team finds out whether Kaep is the answer or not so they can move forward.

 

[Exe Gesis]

Good job Blacky
Love the unintended and

 

[Blacky]

Saw them and decided to keep them

 

[bgt2110]

TENNESSEE TITANS

The titans were one of the busiest teams in the offseason in changing over a roster that has struggled for any kind of success for a number of years now. Some of the bigger moves have been :

Acquisitions

Harry Douglas (WR) from Atlanta...unlucky in Atlanta where he was behind Julio Jones and Roddy White on the receivers roster i have always felt that if given an opportunity he can be a decent WR. Will be given that chance at the Titans and could prove to be a solid pick up.
Anthony Fasano (TE) from Kansas City - signed by the Titans after Kelce became the undisputed no 1 at the Chiefs Fasano is behind Delanie Walker at the position but may still have an influence and provide depth and experience at a position the titans have struggled at.
Brian Orakpo (LB) from Washington - Looking to add pass rushing talent Pro Bowler Orakpo is a big upgrade at the OLB position. A first round pick in the 2009 draft Orakpo is a solid signing and will lift the sack count on a Titans defence that couldn't get near the opposition QB last season.
Da'Norris Searcy (S) from Buffalo - Coming off a couple of great seasons at the Bills Searcy will be used at the safety position. If any team is going to compete against a Colts outfit and their WR corp they better have decent CB's and safeties. The titans recruited a good one in Searcy.
Hakeem Nicks (WR) from Indianapolis - Signed Nicks to provide valuable playmaking and experience at the WR position. Looking to show some of the form he had when playing with the Giants, Nicks will be a downfield threat that the Titans never had last season. A solid signing, Nicks is still only 27 and although he struggled in the high octane Colts offence he still needs one of the opposition's better players to cover him.
Marcus Mariota (QB) - drafted number 2 overall in the 2015 draft Mariota will start the season as the Titans starting QB, the first time a rookie has done so in the Titans history. A Heisman Trophy winner with exceptional athleticism, outstanding character and duel threat Mariota should be the franchise QB the Titans have been looking for. Good Luck to him, i hope he he has a wonderful career.
Dorial Green-Beckham (WR) - drafted with the Titans second round pick this guy has been talked out as being similar to Calvin Johnson. At 6-5 and 240 lbs he certainly matches up physically. His speed and all round ability would have the titans salivating at what could be, off field issues in college will hang over him but should he mature mentally the titans will be laughing all the way to the bank and so will he.
Dick LeBeau (Assistant coach in charge of defence) - One of the greatest defensive minds in the game, Dick LeBeau is in his 57th year in the NFL as a player or coach and his first with the Titans as Assistant Head Coach/Defense. LeBeau is in charge of the defense and is working with long-time protégé Ray Horton, who serves as defensive coordinator. LeBeau is connected to a number of the Titans current coaches, having worked with six of the staff as either players or coaches, including 18 seasons with Horton and three years with head coach Ken Whisenhunt.

The Titans are primed to improve on their dismal 2-14 season in 2014 having upgraded at a number of positions across the franchise. With Ken Whisenhunt entering his second season as head coach and the likes of Delanie Walker building on his record breaking season for a Titans TE in 2014 and Taylor Lewan continuing to build on his 2014 season where he earnt all rookie honors i can see a decent lift in wins this season. Not enough to challenge the Colts for the AFC South title but they could push the Texans for second spot and go past them sooner than some others might feel.

Schedule Prediction:
Wk 1. @ Buccs - W - 28-20
Wk 2. @ Browns - W - 30-18
Wk 3. vs Colts - L - 38-24
Wk 4 - Bye
Wk 5. vs. Bills - L - 24-16
Wk 6. vs. Dolphins - L - 23-20
Wk 7. vs Falcons - W - 30-23
Wk 8. @ Texans - L - 24-12
Wk 9. @ Saints - L - 35-17
Wk 10. vs. Panthers - L - 27-16
Wk 11. @ Jaguars - W - 30-14
Wk 12. vs. Raiders - W - 26-21
Wk 13. vs Jaguars - W - 33-18
Wk 14. @ Jets - L - 14-9
Wk 15. @ Patriots - L - 38-16
Wk 16. vs. Texans - W - 20-13
Wk 17. @ Colts - L - 34-24

Overall 7-9 record and 3rd spot in the AFC South.

 

[Blacky]

I thought Fuey's write up was pretty good

Malik Jackson is a stud though and people should start recognising it

 

[TheGreatBarryB]

Got a bit carried away with this but saw a bit of the Jags last season……

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS 2015


It’s been a lean four years for the Jags who haven’t won more than five games in a season since 2010.

Coach Gus Bradley and GM David Caldwell need the team to improve this season or they’re out.


OFFENCE

Bradley hired Greg Olson as OC replacing Jedd Fisch. Olson was OC at the Raiders, some will say he did a good job with rookie QB David Carr others will say he was a boring, unimaginative, predictable play caller. Olson worked with Bradley in Tampa and was QB coach at the Jags two seasons back in the glorious Gabbert era. Jon Gruden and Drew Brees vouch for the guy so who am I to say otherwise.

Olson’s got a huge job as the Jags’ fortunes will rest on the shoulders of second year QB Blake Bortles.

Bortles threw for over 2900 yards 11 TDs and 17 interceptions in his rookie season. He only threw two interceptions in his last five games and five in his last eight games.

But to be honest he really wasn’t asked to do much in the second half of the season and rarely through the ball downfield. Mainly just dinks and dunks, barely 10 yards past the LOS.

You can’t blame the coaches for being cautious. He threw predominantly from Shotgun formation, primarily to keep him safe from his offensive line which conceded a whopping 71 sacks!

To improve this area Bradley hired former Bills Head coach, the laughable Doug Marrone. Luckily this guy’s a better OL coach than contract negotiator. Marrone wil need to focus on LT Luke Joeckel who has been a tad disappointing for a No 2 pick. He did show some good signs though, like all OL men he struggled against JJ Watt last season but made a couple of good plays against him that suggested he could come good. The Jags are also paying for the ridiculous contract they gave guard Zane Beadles who was crap last season. They’ve signed a couple of badly needed experienced players OL men in Parnell and Wisniewswki and drafted AJ Cann in the third round of the draft.

Bortles looked flat footed at times last season and missed far too many short passes, he wasn’t helped with some dropped catches but his touch was lacking at times. Watch his game against Dallas. He didn’t connect too many times on rare occasions when he went deep.

I reckon his best pass was against the Giants in week 13. If you have gamepass watch 3rd quarter when he goes deep on the right sideline and finds Marquise Lee with a terrific pass in the endzone. Another good one was against the Texans the following week where he hits Cecil Shorts down the left sideline.

He’s very athletic and a good runner, and he looks most comfortable on the move, especially roll outs to the right. Made quite a few good plays.

So he’s unproven as yet with the deep ball , footwork and with his touch on short balls. Doesn’t sound promising but there’s something about him that I like, something that makes you think he could prove his doubters wrong. Maybe it’s just after a few years of laughs watching Blaine Gabbert crap himself in the pocket, it’s refreshing to see this guy stick to his guns at times.

There was a play in the last game of the season against the Texans. It was late in the 4th quarter and Jags were 4th & 10. The Texans threw the kitchen sink at him and he calmly stayed in the pocket as long as possible and stepped forward to complete a first down to his receiver.

Besides an ordinary OL Bortles also had to put up with a poor running game. OL was just as bad opening lanes as protecting the QB and Toby Gerhart proved to be a predictable bust and poor pick up. Denard Robinson showed he could be a threat this year with his 4.3 yds per carry average. Jags drafted highly rate TJ Yeldon in the 2nd round of the draft and if the running game improves it will take pressure off Bortles.

Bortles also has a very inexperienced receiving corp with Lee and Allen Robinson making their debuts last season and Justin Blackmon out suspended. Undrafted rookie Allan Hurns was probably the pick of the receivers last season. Jags signed Broncos TE Julius Thomas to help out as well. But it’s still a very inexperienced group.

Considering what he was surrounded with we can’t be too harsh on Bortles.

DEFENCE

Bradley is trying to implement same scheme he had at Seattle with Pete Carroll. Basically likes to shift his DL towards the weakside giving his LEO DE plenty of room to rush the QB. This was why they drafted Dante Fowler. Unfortunately he did his ACL in his first training run and is out for the year.

Chris Clemons will be asked to play this position again as he did at Seattle. He’s getting on a bit though and past his best. He had only one sack in the last six games. Plus he hasn’t showed up to camp due to personal reasons. Problem is they don’t have many other rushers either on the line or at LB. Also their best lineman SD Marks did his ACL in the last game last season against the Texans and is on the PUP list.

Jared Odrick was signed from Miami but was signed primarily as a DE, what they call a big/bear DE lining up between the opposition RG and RT, to help stuff the run although they plan to rush Odrick in certain situations.

At linebacker the stocks are pretty thin. They signed Skuta from the 49ers and there other OLB Telvin Smith had a decent rookie season. MLB Paul Posluszny returns after missing more time from injury. Posluszny is a terrific tackler but not so great at coverage, which doesn’t suit to Bradley’s scheme. He’s no Bobby Wagner.

After that there’s hardly any depth at all at LB. Amazingly so! I was looking at Jags past drafts and guess how many LBs they have drafted in the first four rounds of the draft in the last 7 years? None/zero/nil. They have only drafted two in 7 years . One of them Smith and the other had a decent year last season, only problem, it was with the Broncos!! Brandon Marshall.

Whils we’re on about their drafting, in 2013 they had eight picks and selected five DBs. Four were starters last season most have been slightly disappointing. 2nd round pick SS Jonathan Cyprien shows some ability, can tackle but heck me he misses a few! Also doesn’t make enough big plays.

3rd rounder Dwayne Gratz has been disappointing in coverage, FS Josh Evans has been replaced as starter and is now back up SS.

Their last pick of that 2013 draft 7th rounder (and pick #210) Demetrius McCray has probably been their best, making CB#1 his own. Last year’s pick Aaron Colvin has shown some promise as well. They also brought in some solid depth by signing FS Sergio Brown from the Colts and CB Davon House from the Packers.

It’s a young unit still but signs at times last season that they could become a decent unit with some more experience. Unfortunately though with their lack of a decent pass rush they could be under huge pressure this season.

To sum up, the Jags are very inexperienced on offence and in the secondary. More patience needed, just not sure how much Bradley will get. A couple of good things in their favour, they play the Titans twice, possibly a Foster-less Texans once and the NFC South.

Prediction : 4-12