Well, let's get straight to the 1st (of 2) surprises I have in store. I know some of these numbers are available elsewhere, but they may take some time to trickle in and it's good to see some more concentrated discussions taking apart various units. I hope these threads start more actual discussion than they did last year, but if not, I know people enjoy these sort of things and for me, it's definitely helped me look closer at the OL offensively.
OL Week 1 Graphics Terrific game by this unit keep Aaron upright and paving way for a nice, complimentary rushing attack. In pass pro, tough to argue against what these guys accomplished allowing just 2 sacks, 2 hits, and 3 hurries.
Over half of the OL imperfections came at the hands of our tight ends and backs, who struggled at times to pick up the Gregg Williams blitz. Starks clearly has ground to make up in this area, even by his own self-admission. Finley didn't look particularly strong in this area either, allowing the sack (I think, someone please correct me if I'm wrong because I'll freely admit I'm not OL expert) and being late on another assignment. Of our backs and tight ends, I really thought Quarless did an outstanding job tonight in pass pro and making key blocks in the run game. If you were expecting a lot of Taylor/Williams on the field this year, I'd be surprised if either cracked more than handful of snaps all year on the LOS if both Finley and Quarless stay healthy.
Our OL looked in sync and communicating well for week 1 in the season. Our interior linemen were hitting the second level consistently. Wells and Lang, specifically worked well in tandem and were pivotal to a couple bigger runs. Bulaga was straight up dominant, handling his man with ease. I really wish we have a future LT so we can keep this guy beasting on the right side.
Like I said, nothing extensive here. Enjoy!