We beat a bad team that is in the race for the first pick in the draft and we didn't crush them. That said, I am cautiously optimistic that this team is headed in the right direction - didn't fold when things went against us and actually finished the game well. I don't think we have the talent to make it to the playoffs, but I do think we are developing a core group of solid players who can actually hold together a locker room and grow into being a good team. Best case scenario for this year is Tyrod develops into a franchise QB and we can use all our high rd draft picks next year to draft the skills position/lb/dl talent core we need; add them to a solid group of veterans and make it to the playoffs next year. Worst case - Tyrod treads water and we trade half our picks to move up in the draft and draft a franchise QB and we're 2 years away from the playoffs. Either way, arrow is pointing up.
I was super encouraged by the rush defense and I'm very happy that Poyer looks like a great pick up. Humber played really well too. Next week will tell just how solid that D is though, because the Panthers have a ton of weapons.