- 37,287
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I think we're entering the first year where it's really without a doubt Russ' team. No Lynch and while the defense is still one of the best they've taken a step back I think its safe to say? He's entering a different stage of his development and will be required to do more. His past numbers and being a game manager were valid criticisms at the time but the eye test has always told me during that time he looked too good not to get better. The skill set and intangibles have always been there imo. Sounds silly but the general vibe i've gotten from him this past off-season just has me feeling he's primed to go off. And yeah, especially given how he finished last year.
I also kinda believe there's a direct correlation between the more jokes that get thrown at Russ' the better he does lol
but we'll see. interesting year for him.
Agree with everything you wrote except the part about the defense. They ended last year leading the league in DVOA, #2 overall, #2 passing, and #1 rushing -- and that's considered down for these dudes. Kam holding out a few games then proceeding to have the worst year of his career didn't help things. Seattle won't be 2013 good (which is fine considering that's probably the best defense I've ever seen) but they're still the best defense in the L.
If Russ plays even 80% as well as he did to end last season the Hawks won't lose more than 4 games this year.
This hurt to type.