Game 3: TB @ Miami Preview

The Phins got the Bucs tomorrow in game three of the preseason. Here's what we know going in: (1) Zach Thomas and Jason Taylor will make their preseason debuts and (2) Bobby Knight will be there, which you're sure to be reminded of countless times during the game (if you're lucky enough to see it). I'm setting the over/under on Bobby Knight camera shots at 10. I'll take the over.

Green's the starter, so we can put the never-was controversy to bed. As it's been pointed out, this is the last game before the first round of cuts and some of these guys may not get another shot to prove themselves (PK Sam, for instance).

Similar to Game 2, I'll be watching the following:

1. The Offensive Line, specifically Anthony Alabi and the pass blocking in general. The left side looked pretty damn good opening up holes for Ronnie against the Chiefs. Hopefully, the line continues to "gel" as a "unit".

2. The "Underdog" receivers -- Which will make cases to make the team? The battle right now is between Kerry Reed and Az-Zahir Hakim, but with no receptions and some banged up legs, Hakim isn't helping his cause. I can't see how he makes it through the first round of cuts without even as much as stepping out on the field.

Will Cameron let Green, Lemon and the receiving corp have a little fun? Let's see some deep balls to Ginn and Hagan. Fire it up, dudes. Let's go.

3. The secondary.

4. Jesse Chatman. He's been a freak through the first two games. Can he keep it going? If he continues into the regular season, the idea of a Brown/Chatman tandem could potentially open up our entire offense. It's still early, but think of how our passing game could benefit with two speedsters in the backfield. Damn.

5. Will Ted Ginn run East-West on punt returns? He hasn't done anything impressive thus far, and the Dolphin cynics are already grumbling.

Unfortunately, this time around, I won't have the benefit of watching the game on TV. Instead I'll ride solely with the drive charts. Exciting stuff.