Some Kool Aide for the OL

[Harlan Huckleby]

I think for the first time in many years we have some talent upfront but talent backing them up as well. Something we missed in the Sherman years.

well, not to bust a gasket over this topic, but Sherm probably had better backups than they have now. Kevin Barry, Ruegamer, Wells. I'm not sure who the backups are today that people are creaming their jeans over.

[woodbuck27]

Well, I don't agree with many things that TT does, but what I love is that he seems to choose his o-lineman not just based on stats, but rather their grit and attitude. We have a lot of young players who play pissed off, and attitude is very important in your linemen. So, I believe these young guys, knowing the scheme now, and being able to play more instinctively will really come together. My biggest concern is actually the ends. They are just too old and there is a good chance that they will both miss substantial time on the field this year. This is where our young guys HAVE to do a MUCH better job replacing them out there. I believe that Colledge will end up being our end. Hopefully Barbre will impress out there too, because the two old guys are on there way out.

I thought that I read recently that LT Chad Clifton is actually healthier (that seemed encouraging) and I've always appreciated the way M. Tauscher plays RT.

The fact remains, that neither OT is getting younger and will wear down and therefore their back-up's have to be prepared.

[retailguy]

I think for the first time in many years we have some talent upfront but talent backing them up as well. Something we missed in the Sherman years.

well, not to bust a gasket over this topic, but Sherm probably had better backups than they have now. Kevin Barry, Ruegamer, Wells. I'm not sure who the backups are today that people are creaming their jeans over.

Never thought I'd agree with you Blue dog.... but alas I do. I don't think that today's backups anywhere on the roster are really any better than what Sherman had. Backups are backups. More untested, for sure, better talent, (not so sure, but possible), but better all around? The jury is still out on that one.

[wist43]

Shermans OL was one of the best in the NFL - IMO, 3 pro bowlers (Wahle, Flannigan, and Taush); Rivera and Clifton were right there as well.

Individually, and as a unit, they were light years better than the mighty midgets - even at RT and LT where we still have the same two players, b/c Taush and Clifton have definitely declined since '03.