Don Banks' 10 Offseason Questions

Ten intriguing offseason questions - Don Banks - SI.com (http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2008/writers/don_banks/05/21/storylines/index.html)

3. What will be the feel-good story of the NFL preseason?

Put me down for the doubleheader of Potomac-area positive vibes being generated by the league's two most energetic and enthusiastic new head coaches in Baltimore's John Harbaugh and Washington's Jim Zorn. Neither has ever even been a coordinator in the NFL, let alone a head coach, but we'll have to find out if that's a plus or minus on their behalf. Harbaugh has the tougher task, taking over a veteran-laden Ravens team that's pretty set in its ways, and trying to whip it into a more disciplined and cohesive bunch.

It's almost hard at this point to remember when Baltimore wasn't Brian Billick's team, but I don't think it'll take long for Harbaugh to put his own imprint on the Ravens or work through his learning curve. He's a strong motivator, a good judge of people, and he'll quickly figure out which players have been hesitant to buy into his program and move on. All the work won't be done in 2008, but Baltimore is on its way back.

More reasonably positive comments from Banks. Hell hath frozen over.

When I read this a couple of days ago my first thought is that Zorn and the Skins will carry their enthusiasm and feel-good quality through the season while I doubt the same will be true of Baltimore. Baltimore will be short of offensive weapons for at least another year or two IMO and fans are frustrated at having to hold opponents to 10 or 15 points to win a game - anybody would get frustrated by that.

When I read this a couple of days ago my first thought is that Zorn and the Skins will carry their enthusiasm and feel-good quality through the season while I doubt the same will be true of Baltimore. Baltimore will be short of offensive weapons for at least another year or two IMO and fans are frustrated at having to hold opponents to 10 or 15 points to win a game - anybody would get frustrated by that.

I forgot to say I think Zorn and the Skins will be the best story of 2008 in the NFL. Not predicting the SB here or anything like that but I'm talking about a group of guys that play w/ a lot of enthusiasm and joy after a season of heartache. There will also be a lot of rejoicing as the offense opens up. Ok... fall is still too far away to start talking like this.

Can't say I disagree with you. The FO was ridiculed regarding their hiring process, but I gotta say I'm happy with the way things have gone so far this offseason.

They were cautious in FA, had a respectable draft, and have done alot to upgrade the front office structure. Things definitely appear to be heading the right way in DC.