Fort Wayne Safari Contenders Without an Identity

[Mike]

Fort Wayne (AP)-The team that barely lost the Gold Cup to MIN two seasons ago (Coleman fumble; King 39 yard TD run) is trying to redefine itself...or maybe not. The same team after the Gold Cup went 5-9, losing a few close ones to teams that were gunning for the Safari!

GM Mike Blank has harsh decisions to make...there seems to be great parity amidst his roster. Does the experienced career-leading vet still play or does he step back for a new pup that can make the big game-winning play?

QB Palawski had a 102 rating with only 2 INTs two seasons ago...but should he play with last year's dismal 92 rating (5 INT)? HB Coleman appears to be improving (4.5 yds/carry) on his career (4.3 yds/carry) but is that because of the improved OL,meaning a younger player could do more? #3 WR all-time Larry Ray Willis, 'Mr. First Down', can't find the End Zone! TE Doering...when he gets under 500 yards the team doesn't make the playoffs.

This team was #3 in first downs, suggesting no change. Yet, #16 in scoring...were the other teams playing PREVENT starting in the third quarter?

The defence was alright. #6 in first downs given up. #9 in points. #2 in yards given up. But....but....the team still lost.

Some questions are clear:
Will Palawski be pulled in favour of the rookie QB Flowers?

Can Lincoln Coleman keep up his torrid pace from last year (#5 in all-purpose yards)?

WR Willis had 1139 yards last year. Is being the league's #10 receiver in season yards good enough?

TE Venisee doesn't have the Game Experience of Doering (#48 all-time), but would the extra athleticism make up for weaknesses elsewhere?

Is G Wisdom too old?

Is the DL and LB Corps over the hill?

FWS plays PIT, LEX, CHE, TEN, PEO, and BAT in the first six weeks. It is likely the GM will give the Gold Cup players extra consideration, but after a 5-9 season, no one's job is really safe except for Coleman and Willis.