As always, we didn't learn much about the state of the TEAM last night. But there were interesting nuggets that will be interesting to interpret in hindsight once we see the final 53:
1) Rivers seemed to be out there most of the game (though now that I think about it, I can't remember how much I saw him in the first half). It seems like Keonta was running a lot with the 1's, Rivers with the 2's. Given we've been assuming he's part of the four man rotation at DE, that was surprising to see in this game. Whether that was a true indication of the depth chart, or a "Let's see if Davis can play" type of deal remains to be seen.
2) Similar deal with Patterson, though he definitely played the whole game. My guess on this is his final role is still very much in flux. I believe he'll make the team (both for a unique skillset and general lack of depth at WR), but how much he's used in each role is still being evaluated.
3) John coming in for Waddle as the first backup at OT seems to indicate he's the 4th OT if Cannon is healthy, especially since at that moment Brady was still in the game. You're probably not d**kin' about with a project in that spot.
4) None of the RB's looked GOOD, but Hill looked BETTER than Gillislie once again. Hopefully his injury wasn't serious, because I think it's a foregone conclusion now that he's beaten Mike out.
5) Bentley getting some time wearing the green dot so early is an EXCELLENT sign to me. Only players in recent memory to get it as a rookie were Mayo and Hightower. Could just be a sign that they prefer the MLB's to wear it, but combined with everything else we've seen from the kid, I think there's reason to be encouraged there.
6) Decker is miles away from contributing. MILES away. No time with the 1's, and mixed results against the 2's and 3's (granted, Hoyer did him no favors).
7) Rowe is likely to be our #2 outside CB. I think JJ is our primary slot guy once back to full speed, and Dawson is making the team in some role as a 2nd rounder. That leaves basically one spot:
7a) Crossen showed something last night. His energy was just as high, and he's a real good tackler for a CB. No penalties, which is good to see, hopefully learned from some teaching moments. I feel like he's the frontrunner for that 5th CB spot right now, which leads to:
7b) Jason McCourty following his brother's footsteps and getting some time at S. Could be seen two ways: Either they feel he can make a similar switch, and with some encouraging things from the young CB competition feel he contributes more as a S, or this is his last way of proving some value before they have to make the cut. Seemed a little late on the coverage on one play (though that's ALWAYS dangerous to judge from the TV without knowing the playcall), but made a good read and sure tackle on the goalline. I'm cautiously intrigued, and any comp that increases the chances of bumping Richards out of any defensive snaps is good for me.