If it feels as though someone is underperforming, it doesn't necessarily mean they are playing badly
and should be benched. Technically, you could make a case that both Shawn Crawford and Kyle Hamilton have under performed in relation to their previous season's performance as well as talent level. Crawford has missed a lot of tackles this year, has been in poor position to make plays on occasions, and has not forced many turnovers. Hamilton has whiffed on a few interceptions and thus has not created many turnovers, as well. That being said, he is still a tremendous player and should be on the field at all times. I would say the same is true for Crawford regarding playing time. I think, overall, the corners, and the rest of the defense have met expectations based on their past performance and skill sets. I would even say #35,#40,#41, #52 , and #56 have exceeded expectations on defense. I would also say the 3 starting receivers, as well as Williams, and Flemister have exceeded expectation on offense in spite the criticism that is often leveled at the wide receivers.
Replies to: If it feels as though someone is underperforming, it doesn't necessarily mean they are playing badly
Do we watch the same games? Hamilton under performing?
About 50% of the time they are giving him no responsibility and telling him to go make plays. And he does.
Re: Do we watch the same games? Hamilton under performing?
The point that I was trying to make was that when I see posts on the board about players "underperforming", they tend to be subjective because the player's actual skill is viewed unrealistically. In the case of Hamilton, his skill set would make it seem reasonable to think at the beginning of the year that he would have more turnovers to his credit. That would be an example of someone subjectively saying he has "underperformed." That being said, he is still arguably the most valuable defensive player on the field along with JOK, and has been instrumental in the level of success the defense has had this year.
Flemister seems on another level this year
Very impressive running the football. If he's a step down from Williams or Tyree, it's only barely.