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[JoeRedskin]

Originally Posted by Schneed10

... I think Richardson and Reed, if healthy, will do pretty much the same thing.

Agree entirely with the non-quoted portion of the post. Nothing to add on that front. Really, given the off-season additions and there anticipated contributions (Payne, Guice, Richardson, Smith) so much of this season is going to be "wait and see."

As to the "if healthy" aspect, to me, that is the single most important factor. Yes, they had lots of issues last year in terms of running the ball and stopping the run, BUT, if not for the injuries, particularly along the two lines, I think they get three wins more and go to the playoffs.

This year, IF HEALTHY, I think we are a 10 win team even if Smith regresses, Payne and Guice play like rookies and Richardson is not the WR hoped for. I believe that our starters are talented enough to win consistently and the Gruden has grown as a coach. However, while I think our depth, particularly along the D-Line, is better, another year of injuries to the O-line and RB corp like last year will prevent us from having a winning season.

To me, and with few exceptions, injuries are the most significant random factor year to year when it comes to any team's win / loss record.