Re: NFL - Week 2
Here's my take on the "new" NFL's structure...
So-called "Pre-season" should be renamed "Try-out's and talent scouting phase"
The first 4 games are really the "pre-season" as teams are actually using the playbook, not just base X's and O's. Also, they're just getting some intel/tape on other opponents. It takes a few games at speed to get used to the hits and for QB's/WR's to get their timing down.
Games 5-14 are the "Season"...By game 14, it's fairly obvious who's in or out of the playoffs, game 15 is the "tie-breaker" and unless it's "do or die"...16 will see many starters take it easy, if they play at all.
4-0...Great start
3-1...Again...obviously no worries.
2-2... They've little to worry about, assuming they're on the upswing.
1-3...an uphill battle, but the division games don't come heavy until the end of the season.
0-4...Ouch!!