Stafford Needs 1-2 More Seconds

I've said it before and I'll say it again...our offensive line is one the ultimate things keeping us from succeeding in this league.  I know everyone wants to blame defense first, and yes, you are right to think that they need to play much, much better than they generally do.  However, I have noticed something this season that is interesting.  Every time Stafford has ANY time to look without being hurried or hit, his % of completion and good decision making increases tremendously.   It's the classic story of most of the QBs in the NFL that have risen to a high level of play.   Peyton Manning would make just as many mistakes behind our offensive line....which would, in turn, put our defense on the field more than they need to be.  Not only that, but it places more pressure on the defense every single week to "keep us in the game," as JP put it last week, by keeping the opposing score as low as possible given the amount of chances the other team is usually given.

I just can't help but think that it is more than a coincidence that Stafford's 54 yd bomb to Megatron today was set up by good o-line protection.   Watch the clip...he had PLENTY of time to throw that ball.   If only it was like that more often this season, I feel Stafford's TD-INT ratio would be a ton better....even as a rookie gunslinger.  When Stafford is given time to find CJ, no one in this league can hang with him (Megatron, that is).   It's just that simple. 

Stafford's first INT was due to piss-poor protection.   Pathetic protection on that play, and many, many more like it throughout the game.   I was not able to see the second INT, so I can't speak for it.  But I am sure he didn't have all day.   Correct me if I am wrong.

I personally have no qualms with Schwartz playing Stafford late in this game.   The game wasn't over.   Schwartz wanted to win if possible.  Stafford has the team's attention as their offensive leader.   Our O-line needs to protect him better.   I'm sorry....but it is our offensive line's fault that is banged up.   It's our inability to protect him....period.  

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On a positive note, Kevin Smith ran well today considering the run defense he was up against.   I was impressed with his ability to make things happen here and there.  Of course, that means the O-line was doing okay on the run plays...but pass protection is putrid right now...and something has to change if Stafford is going to be our franchise QB.   Otherwise, he's going to spend half his seasons on the bench like McNabb was doing for a while there.

And I'm with you guys....let's pick up Suh from Nebraska if at all possible in the next draft.  That...guy...is...a....man.