Source: life.com
I don’t normally put much credence in what sportswriters are filling the web with these days, because I tend to believe that many of them are lazy and reckless, especially when it comes to reporting on the Jaguars. There are several out there whom I respect, though, because they strive to be informed and unbiased – John Clayton, Paul Kuharsky, and even our own Vic Ketchman encapsulate the virtues I respect in a journalist. Ross Tucker is developing his second career admirably as a journalist with ESPN (recently transferred from Sports Illustrated) and often gives an extremely informative insight into the league and how a team runs day-to-day from his eight seasons in the NFL, from an extremely candid perspective and one that most other sportswriters can only speculate on. Playing as a offensive guard and center for four different teams professional and for three years at Princeton, I am inclined to respect his rankings for best offensive lines in the NFL.
Jaguars’ ranking after the jump…
Tucker’s Top 10
1. New England Patriots
2. Atlanta Falcons
3. New Orleans Saints
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
5. Philadelphia Eagles
6. New York Giants
7. Baltimore Ravens
8. Jacksonville Jaguars
9. Chicago Bears
10. Kansas City Chiefs
The rest of Ross’ article can be seen here, at ESPN.com. Sure, it’s just a small nod to Jacksonville and at the end of the day, it doesn’t necessarily mean anything. The ranking isn’t what matters. What does matter is that the Jaguars’ blocking is responsible for the 2nd-ranked rushing offense in the league and they have done a good job giving David Garrard time to make plays – I certainly don’t remember a pocket lasting long enough to launch an 50 yard bombs before this year. After the woes of 2008 – the pass-protection issues and the lack of running lanes – it’s hard to believe that anyone would be able to call Jacksonville’s a top-10 offensive line just two years later. If one of the young defensive ends on our roster becomes a force in 2011 (or Gene Smith drafts one who does), it is safe to assume that Jacksonville’s defensive line will end up in plenty of top 10 lists, as well. Two huge weaknesses of the last two years have already become our two biggest strengths. I guess it does make sense to get the big guys early.
So what will Gene fix next?
-Andrew Hofheimer
Original Story:
http://blackandteal.com/2010/12/15/ja...
1
3
