42 replies to this topic

[krrock10]

Birk is one of my favorite players, however, I worry about him wearing down as the season progresses. I have been trying to think of ways to keep him fresher for the playoff push. I was wondering what you guys thought of this idea (i'm not sure if I like it):

- sit Birk on easIER games and let Gradkowski take the start. For example, Kansas City, Oakland, Washington

I know there is a rhythm between the offense and the center and that the center is key in calling out protections, but I wonder how much it would help him later in the season if he played only 12-13 games. On the other hand, if we lost a game and it was partially due to poor center play, I dont know if it would be worth the risk.

Finally, sitting him for a few games could not only keep him fresher, but prevent potential injury as well.

Thoughts?

[Ravenseconbeast]

Uh...no.


Gino is nowhere ready.

[berad]

Birk probably gets enough time off during the week, too

[rmw10]

No game is an easy game. If it's a blowout, pull him out. Otherwise, no. The NFL is an unknown and any team can be beat any given week.

[arnie_uk]

I can see where your coming from, and its not a stupid idea but it would be better as beard said to just reast him during the week.

[Moderator 3]

As rmw said, this is the NFL. There are no easy games. I'd go with the "rest during the week" option.

[Bltravens]

I can see where your coming from, and its not a stupid idea but it would be better as beard said to just reast him during the week.

This. The idea in itself makes sense as the last two years Birk has worn down around week 13. But Gradkowski still is a little light in the strength department and too young to mess around with. Each game means too much in the NFL.

[PuRock]

I thought this thread was going to be about benching Matt Birk and moving forward. Guess I am a bit early to that party.

[K-Dog]

No game is an easy game. If it's a blowout, pull him out. Otherwise, no. The NFL is an unknown and any team can be beat any given week.

Agree.
Birk is doing just fine otherwise.

[arnie_uk]

Agree.
Birk is doing just fine otherwise.

hes actually not doing to great but we have no option really

[D-Rey]

I thought this thread was going to be about benching Matt Birk and moving forward. Guess I am a bit early to that party.

I thought this thread was going to be about benching Matt Birk and moving forward. Guess I am a bit early to that party.

Yes just a bit I think lol.

[NaveSenrag]

Benching your starting, veteran center and putting in a rookie who isn't strong enough for the position yet is what turns easy games into upsets.

[gabefergy]

Benching your starting, veteran center and putting in a rookie who isn't strong enough for the position yet is what turns easy games into upsets.

It has nothing to do with strength. Center is the most mentally demanding position and it takes some time to be comfortable with all the responsibilities. Making protection calls and learning proper assignments.

[Mr. Irrelevant]

Hmm sit the genius level iq center, who might be a hall of famer or start the inexperienced rookie. Your call coach

[The Raven]

It has nothing to do with strength. Center is the most mentally demanding position and it takes some time to be comfortable with all the responsibilities. Making protection calls and learning proper assignments.

You always beat me to what I want to say!!! Strength wise, he's fine. He's as strong and athletic as most centers out there. He just has to get the mental part. Although it's a better test of muscular endurance rather than strength, he put up 28 reps on the bench press. Combine that with a 28.5 vertical jump and a 8'07" broad and he's not bad in the strength department.

I want GG to get more reps, but not just yet. The OL is blocking fine and there is no dire need for change.

[Crabcakes&Football]

No way. We gotta play our best players every week, because every team can beat you.

[K-Dog]

hes actually not doing to great but we have no option really

I said just fine. Not great.

[Bravens292]

ugh absolutely not. the tackles have been the bigger problem.

[nk02442]

hes actually not doing to great but we have no option really

Hes been a bum for the last 2-3 years. He gets MAN handled and its the main reason our line collapses anytime someone rushed more than 3. He should have retired 3 years ago. I

[gabefergy]

ugh absolutely not. the tackles have been the bigger problem.

This. KO has shown some nice ability in the running game, but he gets beat fairly regularly in pass protection.