[ryanparker]

I agree that Russell needs an effective passing game to win this year. Actually, they have always needed an effective passing game to go really far into the playoffs...but there have been some years where Russell had the type of line and backs to still consistently gain good yardage on the basic running plays even when the other team loaded the box. This team doesn't look like they can do that, though. It would be asking for a superhuman effort on the part of Abrams, Bailey, and Cordle to get that done.

It looks like Russell has the tools to have a decent passing game. Bailey and Mitchell appear to be pretty good receivers and Cordle looks to be a decent passer. I always thought Dillon could be used as a weapon over the middle, but I have come to the point where I don't expect that to happen now. And why not a screen pass to Bailey or Abrams? These guys seem like they would be terrific in open space.

Given your excellent description of the situation, Beetle, I certainly hope the new guy is given a fair shot at the left tackle position. The benefit of leaving Bailey and Mitchell in all the time is obvious with the receiving threat they pose. We will see what happens.