First Preseason Game Promises Competition
November 25, 2012; Tampa, FL, USA; Atlanta Falcons guard Mike Johnson (79) works out prior to the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
The first preseason game is only days away. The Falcons will take the field at the Georgia Dome for the first time since the heartbreaking loss to the 49ers. Several months have passed and several moves have been made. Some questionable, and some desirable. Whatever the conclusion may be, Thomas Dimitroff has done his job to supply the greatest chances to win the Super Bowl this year. Some of that plan will be decided, however, in the competition of training camp.
One battle in particular is the right tackle position. The experienced Mike Johnson and the athletic freakazoid Lamar Holmes are in the midst of a terrific battle. Johnson has had some pass blocking woes but is showing up in camp. Lamar Holmes, who was injured for the majority of training camp and didn’t get the reps desired is also making a name for himself. This battle could go absolutely any way.
The first preseason game against the Cincinnati Bengal will be a major factor in this competition. Neither of these teams are game planning for each other. This means that the game will be full of one-on-one match ups. This is also a great test for the offensive line considering the Bengals have one of the best defensive lines in the league.
Holmes has been taking many more snaps with the 1st team. If the trend continues, Holmes will be the starter by week one, but Johnson isn’t going to make it easy.
This will probably be the biggest and most mysterious battle of the preseason. It could absolutely go either way. I am still sticking with my prediction of Mike Johnson, but I would not be surprised either way.
Make sure you watch the first preseason game. I am sure I don’t have to remind you; if you are anything like me, you are dying for any sort of football action at this point. Mike Johnson and Lamar Holmes should both get reps with the first team and we’ll see who makes the most of it.
Who do you think wins the job?