[viper]

Man, I'm getting tired just watching you work so hard, Nick.

Most around here know that I've never been a big fan of Fisher. My stance, after watching him over the years, is that he does stay close to his man well, but he just isn't a playmaker. In most cases when the ball arrives, he swipes at the ball, in a manner I've seen so many times he could patent it. Unfortunately, he seldom breaks up the play. Like the others, I don't have the time or interest in getting into specifics right now. Maybe someday.

I will say I do respect, not only the tremendous effort you have put into this project, but also the conclusions that you have drawn from it. I have tried to follow your line of reasoning and even watched a little of the Seattle game last night to watch Fisher a little closer.

In doing so, you've shown me a few things to look for that you say is "very good" coverage (i.e. the Branch TD), while I'm thinking, "crap he never (OK seldom) makes a play on the !@#$%^&* ball." But, you make a couple of good points.

1) You agree he's not a playmaker, but you believe he is solid until we can find someone better. I get that, considering the man to man coverages and scheme.

2) He's often in man coverage with no safety help, requiring him to keep his eyes on his man.

This one is where I and I think many others here have the biggest problem with Fisher's play. I want him to turn and look for the ball, because, in his case, if he doesn't, they usually catch it. If they are gonna catch it anyway, then dang it turn and look for the ball!

But, it sounds like you are saying this is the best way to cover it. That DB's are taught to cover it that way. Is that true? Is that how DB's are taught? Either way I respect your opinion that it is a good way to cover in that instance. I'd just prefer that he looked for the ball is all, even with the chance he may lose a step on the opponent. Again, he may not if it's a quick glance.

3) We are not providing enough pressure with our guys up front which allows the QB to pick us apart. This is a valid point as well.

You've opened my eyes to factors beyond his control, such as man to man coverage and lack of pressure that I hadn't given much thought to in the past. Yes, I knew they were there, but I hadn't put as much weight on that in regards to its affect on DB's. In watching him lately, I've actually changed my opinion of his tackling ability. I think he's been pretty solid there. At least this year.

All in all, you have presented your case well. I've learned a thing or two from your discussion. Maybe we can find a playmaker out there some day to make us all happy!

Good job, Nick.

Go Rams...who's next!!! :l