[socalstanfan1]

I'm glad the players are motivated by all the talk about an inevitable drop off (obviously they have heard it, even if it hasn't "penetrated the locker room."  And I certainly hope the running game is improved.  But part of this could be the equivalent of Spring Training optimism in baseball.  The real test will only come against live competition, when opposing defenses start putting extra safeties near the line of scrimmage, daring Quarterback X to go deep while they commit everyone except the CBs to stopping the run.  Of course, if QB X can hit Montgomery, Ertz, Toilolo, and whoever else develops a few times, we may really be on to something.  Like last year, I expect the running game to get better as the OL gels and new starters gain more real game experience.  That 3rd game of the year against USC will be a real baptism by fire, but hopefully it also becomes a springboard for big improvement.

I understand the concern about the DBs, but I'm actually feeling ok about them.  The silver lining of Barry Browning being injured last year was the emergence of Terrance Brown as another quality CB.  Assuming Lyons can stay healthy, and regular development of some of the other players, I think we will be at least satisfactory in the defensive backfield.

[socalstanfan1]

I'm glad the players are motivated by all the talk about an inevitable drop off (obviously they have heard it, even if it hasn't "penetrated the locker room."  And I certainly hope the running game is improved.  But part of this could be the equivalent of Spring Training optimism in baseball.  The real test will only come against live competition, when opposing defenses start putting extra safeties near the line of scrimmage, daring Quarterback X to go deep while they commit everyone except the CBs to stopping the run.  Of course, if QB X can hit Montgomery, Ertz, Toilolo, and whoever else develops a few times, we may really be on to something.  Like last year, I expect the running game to get better as the OL gels and new starters gain more real game experience.  That 3rd game of the year against USC will be a real baptism by fire, but hopefully it also becomes a springboard for big improvement.

I understand the concern about the DBs, but I'm actually feeling ok about them.  The silver lining of Barry Browning being injured last year was the emergence of Terrance Brown as another quality CB.  Assuming Lyons can stay healthy, and regular development of some of the other players, I think we will be at least satisfactory in the defensive backfield.