June 3, 2008

Mission accomplished: This biggest move this offseason was the firing of offensive coordinator Mike Martz in favor of Jim Colletto’s more balanced philosophy. The plan is to run the ball more frequently and consistently, and the team has adopted a zone blocking scheme. The secondary should have more clarity, too, with the additions of CBs Leigh Bodden and Brian Kelly and safeties Dwight Smith and Kalvin Pearson, plus the expected healthy return of FS Daniel Bullocks.

Unfinished business: Despite the commitment to running the ball more than last season’s 32nd-ranked unit, the team still must settle on a marching order there. Rookie Kevin Smith is the sentimental favorite to win the job over incumbent Tatum Bell, but don’t count out Aveion Cason, Brian Calhoun or Artose Pinner. There also is a DL rotation to figure out. There are spots up for grabs at left end (Jared DeVries vs. Ikaika Alama-Francis) and at tackle.