VikingLord wrote: ↑Wed Oct 30, 2019 9:31 am
This article lauds a streak of games against pretty subpar defenses and opponents. Much tougher tests are coming up, including rematches with the Packers and Bears. If Stefanski's offense continues to produce the yards and points against better defenses (and if they do, I'd have to assume that success in the playoffs would be inevitable), I'll be on board with the hype.
 
While that's a fair statement, looking at the upcoming schedule, is there a defense that will qualify as a great test?  It may not happen until the playoffs (Gulp).
Code: Select all
SUN		3-Nov		at KC		12:00 PM		
SUN		10-Nov		at DAL	 	 7:20 PM		
SUN		17-Nov		DEN		12:00 PM		
MON		2-Dec		at SEA		 7:15 PM		
SUN		8-Dec		DET	    	12:00 PM		
SUN		15-Dec		at LAC		 7:20 PM		
MON		23-Dec		GB	   	 7:15 PM		
SUN		29-Dec		CHI	       	12:00 PM		
Most of those teams are middle-of-the-pack or below average defenses. 
Denver actually looks like the best defense we face until the final game.  That may be our best test coming up.  They are solid overall, although not elite vs the run.
Dallas is a bit above average statistically, but definitely not elite.  They are top 5 scoring D, so that could be an issue.
KC and Seattle are lousy vs the run, and middling vs pass.  
Chargers are lousy vs the pass.
Det is lousy at both.
GB is not statistically a good D.  They give up 4.8 yd per carry rushing for example.  Our issue in that game was our D took a nap in the first quarter.
Chicago has been vulnerable in the past 2 games, but they are still very good.  No telling where they will be a the end of the year.  Especially if they are out of the playoff picture already.
I'm certainly not thinking that we're going to win out, but I also am not sure we see a major test for the O that will satisfy the doubters (myself included honestly).  Good teams, and tough games of course apply still, but that's another discussion.