I think everyone in the world knew Marion Barber was a better running back than Julius Jones by the third game last year. But still, the Cowboys kept JJ as the starter, letting him be devoured by those hungry linebackers so that Barber could do his damage in the second half. This worked out pretty well for the Cowboys. I honestly think the Jets are in the same situation. Thomas Jones is gonna be our cannon fodder, the guy that takes the big initial hits early in the game so that Leon can do some quality work later on. The thing about the Jones- they seem like they have all the tools to be excellent running backs. It's just that they don't seem to run particularly hard. I hate to use the term "It factor," but Julius was always shown up by Barber's toughness and tenacity much as I anticipate Thomas will be shown up by Leon's quickness and agility.
The pre-season is for one thing only: EVALUATING talent. I'm glad that Moore continues to get the majority of runs his way. I would hope that our coaching staff gives the players a chance to PRACTICE on the areas where they need improvement in a pre-season game. It is also very interesting to see that fundamentally we had success. Our chances are looking pretty good when Ellis and Coles are back in the line-up and we scheme for our opponents. The run defense and run offense will be fine, because we need to generate a pass rush against New England and keep them from stacking 8 in the box [see Game 1 last year]. Seems like we are on our way to doing that. Expecting 3 wins the first 3 games of the season is finally realistic. Overall: This team's mentality was changing before Favre got here, and now it seems like we are developing the "chemistry" we need to take the next step. If TJ softens up the defense for Leon, then GREAT! That was a strategy we should have used more of when Curtis and Lamont were playing. Factor in Favre progressing as well as he has, we should be fine in the running department.
Uh, no. That's part of the reason, but it's also for trying to develop some chemistry between the players. You just can't throw 11 guys out there and expect them to work as a cohesive unit. They have to learn each others' traits and tendencies and that can't be done solely during practice. The fact that the Jets had so many penalties against the Giants just proves they are not clicking as a team at this point.
yeah, im beginning to wonder what the situation is with him. initially, i figured Mangini was just erring on the side of caution, but didn't Favre say something last week about how he can't wait to get Coles back? i don't want to overanalyze anything, but that may have been a little bit of disclosure.
coles is always hurt, but still plays through it. how much it will affect his production this year? who knows.
Looking at him on the sideline Saturday night I would guess he is just about as hurt as Brady is and both are being held out for the same reason. There is no need to take chances. Now I haven't heard he isn't practicing, has anybody else?
I just want to point everybody back here: http://forums.theganggreen.com/showthread.php?t=34324&highlight=eyesight
