Quote:This is a pretty tough schedule from start to finish with a bunch of playoff caliber teams. They're not just going to fall into 8 wins. Should they get to 1-3, and then 8-8 when it's all said and done, it's fair to say the team has indeed showed immense improvement.


 

Also, you do have to keep in mind that roughly half the defense is new to the scheme. I was listening to a players from a couple of the league's best defenses, and both said that the main reason for their success was familiarity with their scheme after having been in it for over three seasons. The best defenses, much like the best offensive lines, are the ones that have stuck together for a while. We've talked all offseason about their need to jell as a defense once the season starts, and now that it's here, it's like we all expect them to be fully jelled and hitting on all cylinders. I realize they do have to come together quickly, but so far it's only been two weeks.