The average football fan and bettor doesn’t pay attention to the preseason, as they feel that these so-called meaningless games have no bearing on the outcome of regular season games. However, they are dead wrong, as there are things to be taken from most preseason games. Here are some quick pieces of information that I have noticed up through Saturday August 22nd. DALLAS COWBOYS – Their first team offense really looked good against Tennessee and should be ready to come out firing at the start of the regular season. They are very talented and deep at the running back position. Remember, they didn’t have the services of potential star running back Felix Jones for a good portion of last season. The question is will this team stay motivated and focused throughout the season. DENVER BRONCOS – Everyone saw or heard about how bad Kyle Orton looked in week one of the preseason, but he looked vastly better in week two. Remember he wasn’t all that bad for Chicago last year, and Josh McDaniels is a good offensive mind. Everyone seems to want to fade them this year, but they might be better than most people think. They have a very talented offensive line, which should make things easier for Orton and the running game. WASHINGTON REDSKINS – I’ve been unlucky enough to watch both of Washington’s preseason games. Needless to say their 1st string offense has been horrible. Granted they played against Baltimore and Pittsburgh’s tough defenses, but still. Their defense looks very strong again this year, and Brian Orakpo is going to be a force this season. Look to take the Redskins under the total as much as possible early this season. OAKLAND RAIDERS / TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS – Don’t be fooled by these team’s offensive performances in the preseason. They have good depth at quarterback, which has allowed for them to put up points against 2nd and 3rd string defenses. However, both teams have issues at the starting quarterback position. I expect Jeff Garcia to see some action as the starting quarterback at some point in the regular season. ATLANTA FALCONS / GREEN BAY PACKERS – Both of these team’s starting offenses have been excellent in the preseason. I look for big seasons from Matt Ryan and Aaron Rodgers. These teams are going to be great point spread selections until the betting marketplace fully catches up to their true rating, as they are being under-rated in the NFC. PHILADELPHIA EAGLES – Everyone is picking Philadelphia as their “dark horse” team this season. However, they were in the NFC Championship game last year, so it’s ridiculous to label them as a dark horse. The Eagles did add some great players to their offense, such as Jason Peters, LeSean McCoy, and Jeremy Maclin, but they are dealing with several injuries, including four out of five starting offensive linemen banged up. I could see the Eagles not meeting expectations this year if their offensive line doesn’t get enough reps together. Philadelphia has been dealing with injuries for the last few seasons, and it seems like they might have the same problem this year. Look for them to struggle if they can’t keep their key players healthy. ARIZONA CARDINALS – Don’t be fooled by the Cardinals lack of scoring in the preseason. This team’s first string offense has moved the ball effectively, despite not putting points on the board. It appears that Ken Whisenhunt is not putting an emphasis on these scrimmage games either. CHICAGO BEARS – Jay Cutler looked vastly better in his second preseason game, which is even more significant considering that it came against the Giants first team defense. The Bears should be a great over team this year with Cutler, a strong running game, and an aging defense.
 

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