In no particular order...
Some better run blocking from this evolving OL.
An effective rotation of Akers and Hendy to restore fear and uncertainty in opposing D’s. Probably 60% Akers, I think, with both always fresh.
A healthy Boom able to take some snaps at LOT by game 6 and beyond giving Whit some rest and preparing Boom for starter position there in ‘21.
Seeing Blythe have at least a league average performance at C this year.
More 12 sets to confound opposing D’s, including lots more targets for Higbee to torture the D’s. Give Everett a chance to make a statement in his ‘prove it’ final contract year.
Would love to see Lewis emerge as more than a pass rush specialist by midseason. Would sure make next years offseason decisions easier.
Would love to see AD return to those ‘18 type numbers now that he’s playing with ARob and Brockers and an improved surrounding run D cast.
Would be nice to see Kiser finally fulfilling expectations as a run stuffer.
Seeing one of Bituli, London ll, Johnston, Rozeboom, Howard, Young, or Patrick able to seize a starting job at ILB and play at a decent level alongside Kiser.
Would love to see one of Ebu, Obo, Polite, Patrick, or Lewis become a credible run defender and pass rusher opposite Floyd.
Extension of Ramsey and turn him loose as Staley has been hinting. This guy could be our unpredictable and versatile beast nightmare for opposing QB’s.
Give Darious Williams a decent shot to unseat Hill. I think he might be an emerging star on this D.
It’s exciting to think of how JJ, Rapp, and Burgess could become elite when they assimilate the rumored Staley D.
More screens to our RB’s, including a few unexpected middle screens. Make the D defend the entire field, dammit!
A few halfback option passes from Akers would be exciting.
Seeing a very opportunistic and unpredictable D week in and week out from Staley.
Seeing whichever PK be consistently successful in that 40-49 yard range to win close games.
Seeing Hekker return to his place as best punter in the league.
Well, that’s my wishlist. I don’t think any of these things is unreasonable to expect. What did I miss?
If we see enough of the above things then I sincerely believe that we can not only win the division but would be a legit threat to go back to the SB and win it this time.
