Media really sets unrealistic expectations. Sadly, most fans tend to believe them.
-The OL, especially the tackle spots, have been in shambles since Conklin went down.
- The IOL is getting old and it shows.
- Ford is a below average RB with good straight line speed and that's about it. But he invites too many second level defenders to the hole and doesn't account for that. As a result, the play action game isn't anywhere near as effective like it is with Chubb.
- Still a contrasting set of coaching philosophies that can't mesh. Where you have Dorsey who worked in a gun based, vertical zone with Josh Allen, as Watson was in Houston, vis a vis Stefanski being a disciple of the stretch zone from under center and a more deliberate, down field type passing game. So we're again getting a horse-abortion mix of these looks.
- Barely function RPO game.
- Watson attempting to make a clearly re-tooled throwing motion work, less than a season removed from injury. One that has sapped what arm strength he had and has ruined his downfield accuracy. Edit: his body language sucked too, no getting around it. He just doesn't have a 'rally' or angry side to him. I'm not saying it's necessary, psychos like Brady and few and far between. But at least show like the guys in the huddle are looking to you for guidance.
- Fans longing for Baker in a hilarious way. Like we didn't see what he did in 2019 with an average Oline (highest bail rate from clean pockets in the NFL) and only being beaten by Jameis Squinston himself for most INTs thrown. Watching fans rehabilitate that image is a laugher. We can pretend he would have been significantly better, but most of us don't have a memory that's 5 minutes long.
- Yep, the trade was too much. Most of us agreed even then, that Watson *was* talented, but the draft capital surrendered was too much. Haslam, just like with Manziel, had to have his way and make the giant splash. They gambled, although at least on what *was* an NFL talented QB.... And the fans got burned, because that's really who suffers most.
When we went back under center, and worked some ball action along with the screen game, the offense started to piece together some competency. I would hope and trust that's the formula for the rest of the season.
I was asked why we're still playing Watson if he doesn't give this team the best chance to succeed. Simple answer? There are 4 QBs currently in college with 1st round grades. If you're going to part ways with Watson after this season, you need to be damn well sure.
Jacksonville is only a -1.5 favorite. If the injury list is favorable, you'd have to be silly not to again bet against CLE. Personnel issues don't just go away magically.
