Lineup calls: QB | RB | WR | TE | K | D/ST
I conclude my run through the first week’s series of “Lineup Calls” columns with the team defense/special teams position.
It’s a difficult position to navigate, as many pieces have been changed throughout the off-season. However, the philosophies and stylings normally push forward (don’t tell that to Albert Haynesworth).
The opening matchups test owners’ beliefs about the defenses they selected on draft day, as the Jets, Vikings and Ravens don’t exactly start out with cupcakes. I’ll leave them on the board as “Exclusions,” but clearly owners are tempering their expectations on these otherwise highly-regarded units.
Top 5 Team Defenses
Team Defense Sleepers
Washington vs. Dallas
The Cowboys have the potential to rank among the league’s most prolific offenses. We haven’t seen it yet in the preseason, but I’m reticent to jump aboard “the sky is falling” bandwagon. However, I would be remiss if I failed to acknowledge the myriad injuries impacting the offensive line. Tony Romo has spent a ton of time on his back this preseason, and the Redskins do know how to get after the quarterback.
Cleveland Browns at Tampa Bay
This would quality as a “gut” pick. I’m just not confident that the Tampa Bay offense, as much as I like rookie Mike Williams and Kellen Winslow, will be able to move the ball consistently. The absence of Shaun Rogers up front certainly helps the cause, but is that enough?
Team Defense Flops
Green Bay at Philadelphia (both teams)
Both defenses rank among the top units in the game, although injuries to the Green Bay secondary are definitely concerning coming into the regular season. This could turn into a high-scoring affair, as Kevin Kolb and Aaron Rodgers lead top-flight vertical passing games. If the offensive lines hold up, the secondaries could be in for long, long days.
San Diego at Kansas City
I’m intrigued by the makeup of the Kansas City offense, and coach Charlie Weis and pupil Matt Cassel. The Chargers haven’t been as impacted by injury as we’ve seen in the recent past, though star linebacker Shawne Merriman may miss this contest. Regardless, I expect to see Weis throw the proverbial kitchen sink at the Chargers here, rolling out gadgetry with Dexter McCluster and opening up the passing game.
