(10-28-2019, 08:24 AM)MoJagFan Wrote: It is a good deal to be 4-4 and to look at things and realize the Rookie 6th round QB left points on the field.  I think the coaching staff will improve the play calling and situational play as we move along.  They are trying to protect the QB to a degree and are getting a little cutsie with some of the play calling.  Running a toss sweep is bizarre.

Minshew needs to tighten up on the fumbles but that comes down to the oline continuing to improve and them all growing together.  Darnold had a bad game and a lot had to do with our d-line.  I can't believe that they didn't attack our linebackers.  It is hard to win in the NFL, I am glad we won back to back games as well.  It is exciting to see team football and the penalties being cleaned up.

I give credit to the broadcast crew on their reviews.  They showed our zone working effectively on multiple sacks.  It was a pleasant surprise to see assignment football actually working and the 4 man rush getting home.

I've read multiple places where the red zone offense is often the last place where it 'comes together' for a QB.  I can handle that.  The fact that Minshew is flat out NOT LOSING games for us is something we can all breathe a sigh of relief at.  Losing a prize free agent QB less than 15 minutes into the season and thrusting a 6th round rookie into starting duty and having the kid get the team to 4-4 at the midway point and not just treading water while the defense is bailing us out IS impressive.  Did some slight digging and put together a small snap shot of the last 3 first round QBs we've had and their first 7 starts and Gardner's first 7 starts.

Byron: 6 TDs, 11 Picks, 6 Fumbles Lost. Record 2-5
Blaine: 6 TDs, 5 Picks, 2 Fumbles Lost. Record 2-5
Blake: 6 TDs, 12 Picks, 1 Fumble Lost. Record 1-6

Gardner: 11 TDs, 1 Pick, 5 Fumbles Lost. Record 4-3

Does he need to tighten up on ball security. Yes.  Does he need to work on red zone awareness. Sure.  Is he making plays to help the team win. Absolutely.  To get that kind of production out of a 6th rounder is INSANE.

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