Quote:
Originally Posted by temper11
I don't think he will replicate the stats he had last year in 2015. He was the primary target in a up tempo offense. KC's offense isn't up tempo and I'd be surprised if Kelce, in now his second year, isn't still the primary target. I'd expect that Kelce will see 1000 yards before Maclin. But I do think with the upgraded line (with another moderate piece or two) and the upgraded WR core (with another moderate piece or two) should put Smith and Reid in a good position to succeed to the point that if those pieces fall into place, there will be no more excuses.
If the pieces fall into place, this is what Smith fans have been hoping for since year one.
- 3 years in same system (This will be the first for Smith - 2 years was actually a novelty)
- 3 years with same coaching staff (This will be a first for Smith - 2 years was actually a novelty)
- Decent (not all pro) offensive line
- Good (not necessarily pro-bowl) weapons...
Chiefs knock all those into place, I'll offer no excuses if Smith doesn't perform well.
*** edit. Sorry. After re-reading I saw that the question was "what excuse will Maclin have". That's easy, if Maclin doesn't live up to expectation, his excuse will be Alex Smith.
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I don't know about replicating last year's numbers, but if there ever was a receiver made for Alex Smith, Maclin is it.
He has the speed that corners have to respect, and his route running is exceptional.
Because of that speed, he is a vertical threat, but he makes his money in the short to intermediate range, which is where Smith lives as a passer.