Success will be determined by Takeaways

[Catalyst]

Norman & Kuechly are both big-time ballhawks. If Norman can win the starting spot that's two guys who are going to probably get 7-8 picks between them at least. Plus, Beason is good for 3 at least. That's at least 10 turnovers better than last season just off those 3 players alone.

[Marguide]

For those expecting to see Hogan this week, you will likely be disappointed.

He's not going to play without at least several days of full speed practice.

At this point, I just hope to see him at some point during preseason.

[pantherclaw]

I just don't see this defense forcing punts on a consistent basis. I don't see this unit coming up with stone cold 3 and outs very often. I believe that if we are gonna make a run this year the defense has got to force turnovers. I know this can be said about any team (of course you need turnovers)....but in regards to our squad....I think it's the one thing that will push us to the next level. If we find ways to get our offense and Cam back on the field we will ok. But if our D gets taken for a ride up and down the field again this year...then it may be another 2011 type year. Offense balls out...defense sucks...miss playoffs.

My Point - Takeaways = playoffs

one pre season game, and ya already know our defense sucks?

Why even play defense then.

Keep our offensive play makers on the field all game long!!

[Rubi]

one pre season game, and ya already know our defense sucks?

Why even play defense then.

Keep our offensive play makers on the field all game long!!

How bout you contribute to the topic instead of being a typical squid dick on the huddle.

Did I mention anything about the preseason game? No...I questioned whether or not we can force punts. And I said our team success relies on getting turnovers...so our Offense can do their thing with more opportunities

[Kuech the Sneak]

I really hope they can shut down this Miami offense, they are a much lower class than the Houston one we just played. And the first team D still had a decent showing

[Rubi]

Captain and the safety positions are big time liabilities. But hopefully our LBs can make things happen

[iamhubby1]

Just with our secondary and lack of pass rush...what leads you to believe this defense will force punts on a regular basis?

(serious question. No attitude from me. I feel like I have to explain that because everything turns into a pissing match on here)

I feel your pain, I really can empathize with you. I too once felt the way you do. Hellz, many feel this way. There are however, ways of overcoming this afliction if you are willing to admit you could be off the mark. For instance, some folks take to believing some of the kids have taken a step forward. There has been growth, it has been mentioned. For what its worth.

Another method I use is to allow myself to believe that the starting unit this year, is vastly different from the one that finished last year. Beason and Edwards are back. Keek and Norman have Flashed. That alone is four new starters. Add in that Kamakazi guy, I'm embarassed to admit I don't remember his name, may be a fifth starter. That is damm near half the D.

One last little tidbit that may ease your suffering. Rivera has pledged a more hands on approach with the D. And has been pretty candid about being pleased with how the team responded to his, beginning of the week address. This team seems to have regained its focus.

So with that in mind, I like to think that this years D CAN be much improved.

If my giddy says its so. Believe it mferz. And GOOOOOOO CATS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[pantherclaw]

How bout you contribute to the topic instead of being a typical squid dick on the huddle.

Did I mention anything about the preseason game? No...I questioned whether or not we can force punts. And I said our team success relies on getting turnovers...so our Offense can do their thing with more opportunities

so you're basing it on nothing then.

[Rubi]

so you're basing it on nothing then.

If you disagree just say so. There's no need for you to try and attempt to be cool with sarcasm and bad humor like in your first post.

We haven't upgraded the rush. We have 2nd and 3rd stringers starting in the secondary. It's simply just a topic open for anyone to comment on.

[pantherclaw]

Yeah, I'm trying to be cool by pointing out the obvious.

Yup, you got me!

[Rubi]

Yeah, I'm trying to be cool by point out the obvious.

Yup, you got me!

Do you have an opinion on the matter?

Or no?........I've been trying to set the stage for you to comment on it.....

[rayzor]

i don't have a problem with this team relying on takeaways.

rivera's offense and defense is built on risk taking and being opportunistic and trying to get the ball in the hands of your greatest strength which is going to be the offense for a long time (btw, that isn't a coment on the defense being bad as much as it is on the awesomeness of the offense).

[pantherclaw]

Do you have an opinion on the matter?

Or no?........I've been trying to set the stage for you to comment on it.....

well like I said I think you're selling the defense short.

If i didn't have to get my son and myself ready to leave in 20 minutes, I'd add more to it.

Sorry that i have a life, and it's preventing me from commenting more on the fact you are selling the defensive talent short.

[Rubi]

????? Oscar the grouch...

I guess thanks...for your insight??