“Tempering expectations” is a fair request during preseason. These exhibition contests carry so many variables that differ from the regular season games that matter — from coaches dramatically altering their gameplans for various reasons to the most obvious fact of all, the lack of playing time for regular season starters — so much like watching a magician, part of the trick is attempting to see if you can figure out what’s being hidden behind the curtain.
Is a pass rushing move that works against a third-string tackle going to work in Week 6?
Is having a perfect August night at left guard going to translate to having good games in September and December?