Home Builder Developer - Interior Renovation and Design

Jannie Ledard was home when police knocked at the door Tuesday morning.

Get out as quickly as possible, they told her.

Outside, dark clouds gathered in the distance. The sky was turning black.

Ledard, 82, rushed out, leaving everything behind.

It came like a huge wave, she said, sitting in front of the charred remains of her home of 10 years.

Within hours, everything Ledard owned was reduced to ash.

The ferocious Almeda fire, fueled by strong winds, sped north from Ashland and within hours decimated the small Jackson County communities of Talent and Phoenix, which lie just a few miles apart along Oregon 99 between Ashland and Medford.

The power remains out in both towns. Drinking water is shut off. They are effectively shut down.

Officials in Phoenix estimate the fire torched 1,000 residences, a mix of mobile or manufactured homes, apartments and homes. To the south in Talent, city leaders figure as many as 600 homes were lost.

In all, leaders say more than 2,000 residents, many of them elderly and low-income, lost their homes this week.

Rich Tyler of the Oregon State Fire Marshals Office confirmed Thursday evening two people had died from the Almeda fire one body was found Wednesday morning and one Wednesday evening. He said both deaths are under investigation.

We have no word on casualties, said Sandra Spelliscy, Talent city manager. We are just starting to get calls about I am worried about my mom, I havent heard from her. I suspect because of the severity of the fire and how quickly it moved that we are going to find that we lost some folks.

Swaths of the two towns, which combined have a population of about 11,000, were burned beyond recognition.

The fire started late Tuesday morning in Ashland and whipped north following Bear Creek. Manufactured home parks along or near the creek were hit particularly hard.

Where whole neighborhoods once stood, only gray ash remains.

It reminds me of the time I spent in Iraq, said Phoenix City Manager Eric Swanson, a U.S. Air Force veteran.

The fire left a haphazard trail of damage. Some streets and neighborhoods sit untouched. Others disintegrated to piles of ash.

Phoenix Mayor Chris Luz said his house remains standing.

The home next to mine is gone, he said. The 22 homes next to that are gone as well and when I say gone, I mean burned to the ground.

Swanson said the extent of the loss is incalculable.

People not only had possessions ... they had memories, life experiences, families, those kinds of things that were attached to these places, he said.

Dozens of businesses, many of them mom-and-pop places, like barber shops and taverns, were destroyed.

On a drive along Oregon 99, the artery that forms the commercial heart of both towns, Luz pulled over in front of Pucks Donuts. The shop was gone, its cheerful pastel-colored sign the only thing left.

This is the best donut shop in the county, Luz said. Its a place where people gather and have coffee and donuts.

Acres of land are now covered in charred remnants of entire neighborhoods. Cars were melted into the streets. Burned frames of stoves and washing machines marked the spots where kitchens and laundry rooms once stood. Lawn ornaments, like small stone Buddhas and frogs, were all that remained of front lawns and backyard gardens.

Peggy Raymond, 67, returned Thursday to Bear Lake Estates, the manufactured home park she called home for two decades.

Its totally leveled, she said, her hands still shaking from the sight.

She was at Harry & David, where she works as a fruit packer, when the fire broke out and couldnt get home in time to save her beloved dogs, Fritz and Cuddles.

She lost everything, she said. Her only possessions left: the clothes she had on when she left for work Tuesday and her car.

A week and a half ago, she canceled her home insurance because she could no longer afford it.

I have absolutely nothing, she said.

Acrid air still hung heavy across the region as wildfires continued to burn in Northern California and in southern Oregon.

Statewide, an unprecedented rash of wildfires has burned nearly 900,000 acres and prompted widespread evacuations.

About 3,000 firefighters are working the blazes, which stretch from southern Oregon to Clackamas County. Tens of thousands of Oregon residents have been forced to flee their homes. The five largest fires are each 5% contained or less.

An arson investigation is underway where human remains were found, the Ashland police chief said Thursday.

Ledard also returned Thursday to the spot where her home once stood. She sat down as her granddaughter, Eavy Barbieux, 23, carefully sifted through the fine ash for traces of her grandmothers belongings.

Her hands gloved, Barbieux reclaimed a single earring, a mug her brother made, two cast-iron skillets and a dish the color of daffodils ordinary household items that now seem like small treasures.

Thats all that was left.

We had five minutes to pack, her grandmother said, looking on, so we didnt pack anything.

Jayati Ramakrishnan of The Oregonian/OregonLive contributed to this report.

Originally posted here:
Southern Oregon wildfires wipe out entire neighborhoods in Phoenix and Talent - Ontario Argus Observer

Global Manufactured Housing Market: Overview

Manufactured housing is a type of readymade housing solution that involves assembly in factories and then transport to sites of use. It is noteworthy here that more and more people are opting for these homes over traditional ones because of lesser manufacturing costs, huge savings on time spent in moving in and easy financing available to these homes as compared to traditional homes.House prices rose by 5% in the Euro area (EA19) and by 5.5% in the first quarter of 2020 compared with the same quarter of the previous year. Since traditional housing options are growing increasingly expensive, innovations such as manufactured housing will stand out in the near future. Transparency Market Research projects a sturdy growth rate for the global manufactured housing market over the period of 2020 to 2030.

Request A Sample Copy Of The Report https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=S&rep_id=78430

The manufactured housing market is consolidated on a regional level owing to presence of a small number of manufacturers in mostly developed regions of the world. Top-tier players operating in global manufactured housing market are listed below:

These manufacturers are expected to grow and expand into the current global scenario which is drawing away from traditional, handmade housing and is ready to accept these cheaper and more viable housing options. To tap into these opportunities, players are opting for measures that fall across multiple points of the organic and inorganic continuum.

In North American manufactured housing market, the United States of America holds a lions share, whereas Canada features lower in the demand for readymade housing. Market growth in the country is brought about by presence of many top players, who hold significant positions in the market, both local and global.It is pertinent to note here that Canada has not spent much on housing construction in the recent past; hence the manufactured housing market in the country is expected to struggle for growth. However, a recovery is projected in the future, owing to the relaxed immigration policies of Canada leading to the influx of a large number of foreign migrants looking for cheap homes.

The Asia Pacific region yet projects sluggish growth due to a conservative outlook towards housing and an attachment to old, traditional family residential spaces. Also, since space is at a premium in these regions, high rise apartments are due to find more acceptance than manufactured houses. However, with growing adoption, even if in other countries, would emerge growing trust, leading to growth in the regional market.

This study by TMR is all-encompassing framework of the dynamics of the market. It mainly comprises critical assessment of consumers or customers journeys, current and emerging avenues, and strategic framework to enable CXOs take effective decisions.

Request For Covid19 Impact Analysis https://www.transparencymarketresearch.com/sample/sample.php?flag=covid19&rep_id=78430

Our key underpinning is the 4-Quadrant Framework EIRS that offers detailed visualization of four elements:

The study strives to evaluate the current and future growth prospects, untapped avenues, factors shaping their revenue potential, and demand and consumption patterns in the global market by breaking it into region-wise assessment.

The following regional segments are covered comprehensively:

The EIRS quadrant framework in the report sums up our wide spectrum of data-driven research and advisory for CXOs to help them make better decisions for their businesses and stay as leaders.

Below is a snapshot of these quadrants.

1. Customer Experience Map

The study offers an in-depth assessment of various customers journeys pertinent to the market and its segments. It offers various customer impressions about the products and service use. The analysis takes a closer look at their pain points and fears across various customer touchpoints. The consultation and business intelligence solutions will help interested stakeholders, including CXOs, define customer experience maps tailored to their needs. This will help them aim at boosting customer engagement with their brands.

2. Insights and Tools

The various insights in the study are based on elaborate cycles of primary and secondary research the analysts engage with during the course of research. The analysts and expert advisors at TMR adopt industry-wide, quantitative customer insights tools and market projection methodologies to arrive at results, which makes them reliable. The study not just offers estimations and projections, but also an uncluttered evaluation of these figures on the market dynamics. These insights merge data-driven research framework with qualitative consultations for business owners, CXOs, policy makers, and investors. The insights will also help their customers overcome their fears.

3. Actionable Results

The findings presented in this study by TMR are an indispensable guide for meeting all business priorities, including mission-critical ones. The results when implemented have shown tangible benefits to business stakeholders and industry entities to boost their performance. The results are tailored to fit the individual strategic framework. The study also illustrates some of the recent case studies on solving various problems by companies they faced in their consolidation journey.

4. Strategic Frameworks

The study equips businesses and anyone interested in the market to frame broad strategic frameworks. This has become more important than ever, given the current uncertainty due to COVID-19. The study deliberates on consultations to overcome various such past disruptions and foresees new ones to boost the preparedness. The frameworks help businesses plan their strategic alignments for recovery from such disruptive trends. Further, analysts at TMR helps you break down the complex scenario and bring resiliency in uncertain times.

Related Reports Press-Release https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/sake-brewery-industry-to-play-a-positive-role-in-cubitainers-market-growth-from-2020-to-2028-transparency-market-research-301104740.html

Related Reports Press-Release https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/penetration-of-advanced-technologies-to-bring-a-paradigm-shift-in-growth-of-warranty-management-system-market-north-america-to-add-numerous-feathers-of-growth-opines-tmr-301110185.html

The report sheds light on various aspects and answers pertinent questions on the market. Some of the important ones are:

1. What can be the best investment choices for venturing into new product and service lines?

2. What value propositions should businesses aim at while making new research and development funding?

3. Which regulations will be most helpful for stakeholders to boost their supply chain network?

4. Which regions might see the demand maturing in certain segments in near future?

5. What are the some of the best cost optimization strategies with vendors that some well-entrenched players have gained success with?

6. Which are the key perspectives that the C-suite are leveraging to move businesses to new growth trajectory?

7. Which government regulations might challenge the status of key regional markets?

8. How will the emerging political and economic scenario affect opportunities in key growth areas?

9. What are some of the value-grab opportunities in various segments?

10. What will be the barrier to entry for new players in the market?

Go here to see the original:
Manufactured Housing Market 2027 Industry Trend and Demands Research Report By Industry Expert - thedailychronicle.in

Residents in the Twin Cities east metro area enduring toxic forever chemicals polluting their water could eventually get access to municipal water supplies, high-tech filters or even new water treatment plants.

These solutions are part of a new $700 million drinking water protection plan Minnesota officials unveiled Thursday aimed at providing longer-term relief in an area where bottled water is a way of life for some residents.

The plan offers three options for removing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from the water coming out of faucets in Washington County. They involve hooking homes up to municipal water supplies, digging new wells, building treatment plants and installing granular activated carbon filters.

The plan still isnt final its open for a 45-day comment period but its a major milestone in the $850 million settlement Minnesota reached with 3M Co. in 2018 over the man-made chemicals.

3M manufactured the original PFAS chemicals at its plant in Cottage Grove for years, and dumped PFAS-laced waste in four landfills around the county. Thats the main source of a growing plume of contaminated groundwater covering a 150-square-mile area. The pollutants dont break down in the environment and have affected the drinking water supplies for nearly 200,000 residents.

Some types of PFAS have been linked to serious diseases and reproductive problems.

Cottage Grove resident Myron Bailey issued a statement saying the city finally has a long-term solution.

Today is a day for our city to celebrate, he said.

Bailey said city leaders strongly support Option 2, but also support Option 1. In both options, groundwater, as opposed to surface waters such as the Mississippi River or St. Croix River, remains the drinking water source.

Option 1 is the preferred choice of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) and the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the state agencies that produced the plan and who control the settlement money.

That option focuses on treating water to a threshold that is more protective than the states safety threshold for PFAS, a health index of 1 based on the concentration of the substances in the water. Water readings above that trigger a health advisory. Option 1 would lower the PFAS in affected drinking water to a health index of 0.5.

Wells with readings below that threshold wouldnt be eligible for treatment or a replacement hookup to a municipal supply. In those cases, the cost for any treatment would fall on the homeowner.

Option 1 funds the operation and maintenance of public water systems in the contaminated zone for about 40 years, funds granular activated carbon filters for 236 private wells for 100 years, and provides 2,062 homes with new connections to municipal water supplies.

Option 2 would treat for PFAS to an even more protective level of 0.3 meaning more water would be eligible for treatment but would have to cut back on other things, such as the number of years public water systems could be funded.

Its trade-offs, said MPCA Assistant Commissioner Kirk Koudelka.

State health officials have long maintained that they havent seen a pattern of health effects from the PFAS in the east metro drinking water. In a media presentation Thursday, Jim Kelly, manager of the environmental health division at the Minnesota Department of Health, reiterated that.

We dont see anything unusual that we can tie definitely to exposure to these chemicals, Kelly said.

Kelly noted that the study of PFAS is relatively new.

Option 1 also sets aside $38 million for future contingencies, the most of the three options. Those include the plume of contaminated groundwater shifting, or deciding that more types of PFAS in the water require a health safety limit and controls.

The extra security is one reason that Cottage Grove resident Dave Schulenberg backs Option 1.

We dont know what the full outcome of this PFAS contamination is going to be, Schulenberg said in an interview. There needs to be some money set aside for that what-if in 20, 30, 40 years.

Schulenberg, executive director of the Minnesota Water Well Association, worked on the Citizen and Business Group, one of three work groups that met monthly for two years helping shape the plan.

Bob Fossum, a watershed district project manager who lives in Lake Elmo and who also worked on the Citizen and Business Group, said he hasnt yet decided which option is best. He called it an insanely complicated issue.

Its been a long process with a lot of complicated analysis and evaluation of the various trade-offs, Fossum said. Its the one shot we have at getting this problem dealt with. Theres not going to be another $750 million after this is gone.

The MPCA and DNR will be holding four virtual public information meetings on the plan scheduled for Sept. 22 and Sept. 23. from 3-5 p.m. and 7-9 p.m. each day. More information can be found at: 3msettlement.state.mn.us/DrinkingWaterSupply.

Read the original:
$700 million plan unveiled to deal with 'forever chemicals' in east metro drinking water - Minneapolis Star Tribune

For the second time in two months, mansionization will come back for more review and discussion this week by the city Planning Commission.

The commission will hear recommendations made at an earlier meeting for a zoning code amendment designed to limit mansionization. The meeting begins at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday and can be viewed at: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86869208879.

Mansionization is often described as a situation where a proposed house, addition, or remodel results in a structure that is out of scale, ill-proportioned, or out of character with its surrounding neighborhood, according to a city staff report. New houses and additions to older houses sometimes appear larger and stylistically different than houses built in previous decades due to a variety of factors. In many of the citywide community meetings, these concerns [oversized houses, houses being too big for the lot and incompatible architecture] were prevalent.

According to that report, and after reviewing community feedback and comments from the Planning Commission and Design Commission, the four primary issues identified by staff are the construction of new houses, architectural compatibility of additions to existing houses, privacy, and accessory structures.

The zoning amendment includes expanded neighborhood notification of projects, architectural compatibility requirements, and a 12-foot height limit for the first-story top plate. It also requires second-story additions to match existing plate height, limits placement of second-story windows, requires compatibility for accessory structures, and adopts neighborhood compatibility requirements,

The amendment would also require neighborhood notification of certain residential projects, a potential discretionary review process for certain projects that exceed neighborhood average floor area up to the currently allowed maximum.

The recommendation will be presented to the City Council at a future meeting.

Angry Neighbors

When the issue came before the Planning Commission last month, concerned residents criticized the Planning Department for not notifying neighbors about the scope of a project. Other neighbors called for signs accurately describing projects and an effort to make sure that projects are compatible with the neighborhood.

The Linda Vista-Annandale Association said it supports the adoption of mansionization rules to limit and control out-of-character and out-of-scale neighborhood development in most of Pasadenas single-family neighborhoods.

The group questioned the citys review process, and its compatibility and design standards.

Although we are perceived as a hillside area, in fact, a significant percentage of our neighborhood is considered flat [about 15-20 percent] and is being altered in accordance with underlying zoning in a manner that is out of scale, out of character, and with unacceptable impacts on adjacent neighbors and potential historic resources and streets. And, the time is now we have several streets at a tipping point where character, scale, and valuable architecture and design are about to be lost forever, wrote Nina Chomsky, association president.

Andrew Oksner said a notice posted across the street from his house said there would be an addition of 583 square feet to extend the living, dining and family rooms to his neighboring home.

My reaction was great, as such would be a clear investment and improvement to the neighborhood, Oksner said.

But that reaction turned into displeasure and the feeling that the neighbor had gamed the system.

Improvements of far more than 583 [square feet] seem to be being built there is a new facade, roof, second-floor deck, chimney, and additional and/or significantly enlarged rooms.

Michael Gottlieb said his neighbor built a large home that was grossly incompatible with other homes and the character of the Linda Vista neighborhood.

However, the posted sign for the project only said second story/remodel.

Nothing was shared with us before construction, Gottlieb said. In fact, my neighbor tore down the existing structure and built a house that towers over my own [admittedly in part due to a rise in the elevation of the street]. Its porch extends nearly to the sidewalk and the house occupies the whole street side of the lot.

Neighbors stop and stare and shake their heads. Yes, it is their property. But even if within code shouldnt the Planning Department take into account compatibility with neighboring structures and preservation of the character of neighborhoods?

Talks Ongoing

Serious discussions about mansionization at the city level began in 2015. It was then that the Planning and Community Development Department held citywide community meetings focused on single-family home neighborhood issues.

Other meetings were also held focusing on Lower Hastings Ranch and on Hillside Overlay District areas, which helped the department learn of neighborhood concerns about mansionization from a wider cross-section of the community.

The meetings led to design guidelines that could eventually cover all other single-family home residential zones in the city.

The preservation group Pasadena Heritage has been vocal about these concerns over the years. The nonprofit has been saying that new developments were continuing in Pasadena at an aggressive pace and have presented a constant challenge to maintaining the historic character of the citys residential neighborhoods.

Get all the latest Pasadena news, more than 10 fresh stories daily, 7 days a week at 7 a.m.

Read more:
Planning Commission to Take Another Look at Mansionization - Pasadena Now

Time again for STAR WARS WEEKLY, the SYFY WIRE series that rounds up the most important news of the week from a galaxy far, far away.

Think of us as your own personal Star Wars Holocron.

FIRST LOOK AT THE MANDALORIANS SECOND SEASON

The biggest news this week came fromEntertainment Weekly, whichpublished our first look at the second season of The Mandalorian, including a long article that contains interviews with Dave Filoni and Jon Favreau. Filoni and Favreau talked about what to expect for Season 2 and drop plenty of hints and some photos.

One of the biggest bits of news is that were getting eight episodes for this season and the length of the episodes will vary between them. The article did not explicitlyconfirm the well-reported, well-sourced rumors about big new additions to the cast, including the report that Rosario Dawsonwill be playing a live-action Ahsoka. Instead, the articlemerely says that some of the rumors were true and some werent, but made no mention of which were which.

Giancarlo Esposito, the actor behind Moff Gideon, might be the cast member who is the most excited for this upcoming season. He tweeted all about it.

With how tight they're holding on to secrets this season, there's every reason to believe we're getting something as amazing as Baby "The Child" Yoda for this new season. Whether it's old characters or new, we're all waiting with bated breath for the story to unfold.

REY KENOBI?

In a recent interview on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Daisy Ridley told guest host Josh Gad that Reymay well have been a Kenobi, as the Jedi had a connection to Obi-Wan's line in earlier drafts of the story.

Rey's possible Kenobi heritagewas one of the early ideas that J.J. Abrams had, and he certainly put clues in the story that would support that idea (like having the voices of bothObi-Wan actors call out to her during her vision in The Force Awakens).Star Wars fans who pay attention to how thesefilms are made took this news with a grain of salt. Star Wars movies evolve by the seat of the directors pants every time a new one is made;the story evolves and the storytelling changes. For his part, Rian Johnson created a situation where Rey could have been anyone or no one, feeding the mystery of her lineage. J.J. Abrams was handed the difficult task of completely reconfiguring the end of the saga after the passing of Carrie Fisher and that evolution and ambiguity played into his favor.

For anyone who believes that Star Wars has always had blueprints set in stone, Id recommend reading the Making of Star Wars books by J.W. Rinzler. Lucas was flying by the seat of his pants. Vader as Lukes father? Not really planned for. Leia as a Skywalker? A late addition in Return of the Jedi no one on the production had expected when making Empire. Its just a thing that happens as Star Wars movies evolve.

Thats not to say critiques about Reys lineage arent fair: they absolutely are. It's just thatStar Wars'creative process tends to lend itself to seemingly last-minute reveals and changes. This isn't anything new.

MARVELS THE HIGH REPUBLIC PREVIEW

We got a new glimpse of The High Republic, which is scheduled to kick off in early 2021. This comes in the form of a preview of Cavan Scotts Marvel comic of the same name over at StarWars.com.

The book follows a Jedi Padawan Keeve and her Trandoshan master Sskeer. Keeve is close to her Jedi trials and it will be interesting to see them so far back in the history of the Jedi.

The comic premieres next year. For the full, four-page preview, visit the officialStar Warswebsite.

ELEE & ME

The redoubtable Amy Ratcliffe announced a new Star Wars project this week. Elee & Me expands the world of Batuu and the experience of Galaxys Edge. It tells the story of Salju and her little friend Elee. Salju runs the mechanics shop and filling station at Black Spire Outpost. Currently, there isnt much to Saljus Filling Station when you visit Galaxys Edge, but lets hope that as they expand the lore with books like this, there will be more added to that part of the Disney Park experience.

Amys childrens book is part of Targets Galaxys Edge Trading Outpost collection. It comes out Nov.3, 2020.

THE MOVIES THAT MADE STAR WARS

At Dragon Con this last weekend, the offerings from the Star Wars track were incredibly varied and impressive. The trivia contest had a nearly impossible qualifying test that even made the news. One of my favorite panels was the one dedicated to the movies that influenced Star Wars.

I was on the panel alongside other experts in the field. It was recorded and thats what well leave you with this week.

Until next week, may the Force be with you!

More:
A first look at The Mandalorian Season 2 and Rey's Kenobi origins - SYFY WIRE

Who has the edge when the Titans head to Denver to face the Broncos in the season opener on Monday Night Football (9:20 p.m., ESPN/WZTV-17)?

The Broncos offense is young and exciting but also largely unproven. The additions of running back Melvin Gordon and rookie receivers Jerry Jeudy and K.J. Hamler, who might miss the opener because of a hamstring injury, are a significant boost to an offense that already was brimming with young talent, including quarterback Drew Lock and wide receiver Courtland Sutton. But the Titans bring back 10 of 11 starters from an offense that averaged 30.4 points per game in Weeks 7-17 last season. Theres no reason to believe they cant pick up where they left off.

Autoplay

Show Thumbnails

Show Captions

This category became much closer in the days leading up to the opener thanks to one name: Jadeveon Clowney. The edge rushers versatility changes the complexion of the Titans defense and raises the overall profile of the group. Still, Denvers defense is its strength it ranked 10th in points allowed, 12th in total yards allowed and first in defensive red-zone percentage last season. The unit lost a star in cornerback Chris Harris Jr. but gained one in a defensive lineman whom Titans fans know well: Jurrell Casey. Once Clowney and Vic Beasley are fully up to snuff for the Titans, they probably get the nod here.

The Titans bring back Pro Bowl punter Brett Kern, who is among the best at his position in the NFL. But uncertainty still looms at kicker. Can Stephen Gostkowski revert to his old form and bounce back from October hip surgery? Time will tell. For now, Denver and kicker Brandon McManus, who hit 29 of 34 field-goal attempts and all but one extra-point attempt last season, have the edge.

With so many returning faces on offense, the Titans hold an advantage over the Broncos after an offseason that limited the opportunities NFL teams had to mesh on the field. The momentum of an AFC championship game appearance is difficult to carry over eight months later, but the jolt the Tennessee defense gets with arguably the most exciting free-agent acquisition in Titans-era history in Clowney is something thats tangible.

The nod here goes to the coach who ended last season by guiding his team on an improbable run to the AFC championship game. This year, Mike Vrabel figures to take on more of the defensive play-calling duty with Dean Pees out of the picture, though its still unclear how hell divvy up that responsibility between himself and outside linebackers coach Shane Bowen. In any event, Vic Fangio, entering his second season as Broncos coach after a 7-9 debut, still has more to prove than his Week 1 counterpart.

Erik Bacharach, Titans beat writer

Titans 27, Broncos 23: 337 days separate the last time these two teams played in Denver, but this is far from the Titans squad whose punchless offense couldnt muster a point in a 16-0 nightmare last October. Ryan Tannehill, Derrick Henry and company begin writing a new chapter of offensive success for Tennessee as JadeveonClowney plays an impactful role in his Titans debut.

Gentry Estes, sports columnist

Titans 24, Broncos 20:The Broncos will be better this season, but familiarity after a weird offseason should favor the Titans, who were also very good on the road in Week 1 last season. The altitude does matter, yes, but it's a big deal that the Broncos won't have their usual home-field advantage without fans.

Reach Erik Bacharach atebacharach@tennessean.comand on Twitter @ErikBacharach.

Excerpt from:
Titans at Broncos: Who has the edge in 2020 season opener? - Tennessean

As Ciena's (CIEN) Q3 results showed, having a business built around a few key customers has its drawbacks. Despite increasing diversification across its client base, a spending pause at its major telco clients looks to have significantly de-rated shares, driving a discount to the multiple despite its long-run growth outlook remaining largely intact. Looking through a softer Q4 guide, I remain bullish on the long-term potential, with growth tailwinds across optical, share gains from Huawei restrictions, and operating leverage set to drive continued earnings growth.

On a non-GAAP basis, Q3 revenue reached $976.7 million, with telecom revenue declining 3% Y/Y to $556 million. Non-telco revenue offset this weakness, rising to a c. 43% contribution for the quarter, led by Webscale, along with both MSOs and R&E/enterprise customers. By region, the vast majority (c. 70-75%) of Ciena sales still come from the Americas, with a lower level of deployments in India (as a result of COVID-19-related lockdowns), weighing on the overseas contribution.

(Source: Ciena Form 10-Q)

Gross margins were, however, a positive surprise for the quarter at 48%, well above the prior 44% to 46% guidance range. The margin improvement reflected a favorable mix shift toward line card additions into existing systems, which carry a better gross margin profile. A decrease in operating expenses also played a key role, coming in below consensus estimates despite a Q/Q increase in headcount for the quarter. As a result, Q3 EPS of $1.06 was well above consensus.

(Source: Ciena Q3 Presentation)

Encouragingly, management confirmed on the Q3 call that there are no cost-cutting plans at this point, even though fiscal 2020 is set to see materially lower opex due to COVID-19. Interestingly, management also noted that logistical challenges have played a key role - COVID-19 is making it more difficult to access deployment sites and install equipment, and as a result, customers are opting to defer larger new deployment projects.

Top-line guidance for the upcoming quarter stands at $820 million at the midpoint of the $800 to $840 million range, well below consensus expectations. In addition to slower roll-outs of optical technologies, and challenges in India as a result of COVID-19 restrictions, management also attributed the weakness to a slowdown in carrier spending amid weaker enterprise activity. In particular, order weakness seems to have accelerated in the quarter, with management expecting peers with similar exposures to note similar headwinds later in the Fall.

(Source: Ciena Q3 Presentation)

Considering capital expenditure plans at major US telcos such as Verizon (VZ) and AT&T (T) are slowing heading into the second half of the year, the Q4 weakness makes sense in context. Aside from COVID-19-related headwinds in the telco business, the CBRS and C-Band wireless auctions, which have led to spending with Ciena being front-loaded in the year, likely played a part as well.

Ciena remains in pole position in 800G, although peers such as Infinera (INFN) are nipping at its heels. With a growing number of wins and an impressive list of trials, Infinera, for instance, appears to be getting close to its 800G rollout as well. There have also been reports of Verizon testing Infinera, which has led to speculation of a potential transition away from Ciena. However, there are high switching costs, and any transition will likely prove to be gradual.

For now, I think Ciena is well-positioned, having secured 50 design wins for WaveLogic 5 Extreme and shipping over 1,000 modems to 40 customers globally within months of commercial availability. The current slowdown is more skewed toward operationalization, which has been impacted by COVID-19. But RFPs have not slowed down, which is a key positive.

There is also a major opportunity for Ciena to gain share at the expense of Huawei, especially in Europe - Huawei held a c. 30% market share in the region pre-COVID-19. As many European countries move away from Huawei, however, there should be plenty of business up for grabs, and Ciena, as the market leader, is well-positioned to benefit. However, any share gains will likely be gradual - as management outlined, replacing an existing vendor, especially a major one, is a multi-step process involving extensive qualification and back-office integration testing, among other steps.

Source: Ciena Q3 Presentation

On balance, I believe Ciena remains the best play on the optical theme over the long term. With newer wins such as CenturyLink (CTL) and Windstream (OTCPK:WINMQ) yet to meaningfully contribute, there is still upside to earnings ahead, despite the near-term demand weakness from telco and webscale customers.

Pending a faster than expected recovery at key customers or signs of an accelerated Huawei displacement, the near-term outlook is admittedly cloudy, but this appears to be well reflected in the price at c.13-14x fiscal 2021 EPS. With the underlying longer-term growth potential largely intact, however, I believe shares should trade at a premium to peers instead. As such, I see current valuations as a buying opportunity.

Data by YCharts

Disclosure: I/we have no positions in any stocks mentioned, and no plans to initiate any positions within the next 72 hours. I wrote this article myself, and it expresses my own opinions. I am not receiving compensation for it (other than from Seeking Alpha). I have no business relationship with any company whose stock is mentioned in this article.

Here is the original post:
Ciena: Best-Positioned To Ride The Longer-Term Optical Growth Story - Seeking Alpha

SportsPulse: Mackenzie Salmon connected with Kansas City's Travis Kelce to see what he thinks will be the biggest challenge facing his team's quest to becoming the first back-to-back Super Bowl champion in 16 years. USA TODAY

There's nothing quite like the optimism of a fresh NFL season. Thirty-two teams all starting on an equal plane, with one goal in sight.

Perhaps more than any of the major American sports leagues, the NFL offers the most parity, where a team no one was counting on can rise to the top of their division and get into the playoffs. Just look at the Philadelphia Eagles in the 2017 season, on their way to a title in Super Bowl LII.

Here's one reason why each of the league's 32 teams will and won't win Super Bowl LV in Tampa on Feb. 7.

NFL HOT SEAT:Matt Patricia, Adam Gase already on notice ahead of Week 1

WHO WINS IT ALL?:Super Bowl, playoff and MVP predictions

NFL NEWSLETTER: Sign up now to get football news delivered to your inbox

Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes hoists the Vince Lombardi Trophy after defeating the 49ers in Super Bowl LIV at Hard Rock Stadium.(Photo: Robert Deutsch, USA TODAY Sports)

Buffalo Bills

The Bills could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Josh Allen takes a massive leap as a passer, continues his threat as a rusher and the defense remains dominant, and builds off of its second-best 16.2 points a game allowed last season.

The Bills won't win the Super Bowl if Allen regresses, if additions (receiver Stefon Diggs, cornerback Josh Norman and defensive linemen Mario Addison and Vernon Butler) don't produce, and if that defense doesn't shut down opponents.

Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins could win the Super Bowl if Fitzmagic gives way to an all-time rookie performance by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, if receivers like Jakeem Grant and DeVante Parker become stars, and free-agent addition Byron Jones becomes a shutdown corner and elevates an already-talented secondary.

The Dolphins won't make the Super Bowl if this roster is still a few years from being legitimate contenders in the AFC, Tagovailoa needs time to assimilate into the NFL, and the defense doesn't improve from its league-worst 30.9 points allowed per game.

New England Patriots

The Patriots could win the Super Bowl if Cam Newton returns to his 2015 NFL MVP form, the team doesn't miss opt-outs (linebacker Dont'a Hightower, safety Patrick Chung and right tackle Marcus Cannon) too much, and the defense builds on last year's production.

The Patriots won't win the Super Bowl if offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels struggles to craft a system that fits Newton's unique skill set, lack of depth at wide receiver zaps the passing game, and the offense can't become a dominant rushing outfit.

New York Jets

The Jets could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Sam Darnold ascends to become one of the top young passers in the league, running back Le'Veon Bell's production mirrors what it was in his best seasons in Pittsburgh, and the offense sees a near-miracle turnaround inkey metrics that ranked among the league's worst last season.

The Jets won't win the Super Bowl if the roster can't overcome significant holes at receiver andedge rusher, the offensive line continues to yield far too much pressure (New York ranked 30th, allowing sacks on almost one out of every 10 pass attempts), and a lack of star talent dooms the team.

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals could win the Super Bowl if rookie quarterback Joe Burrow picks up where he left off in terms of the ultra-efficiency he had at LSU, they score double the points they did last season (17.4 a game), and the defense stops giving up explosive plays.

The Bengals won't win the Super Bowl if Burrow has even an average season, andfree-agency acquisitions like cornerback Trae Waynes (who is on IR with a torn pectoral, but could return for the second half of the season), safety Vonn Bell and defensive tackle D.J. Reader don't drastically improve a defense that ranked worst in the league in yards per play allowed (6.09).

Cleveland Browns

The Browns could win the Super Bowl if new coach Kevin Stefanski is exactly what quarterback Baker Mayfield and receiver Odell Beckham Jr. need to blossom into one ofthe top QB-WR duos in the league, and a fairly talented roster lives up to the hype that it drew last offseason.

The Browns won't win the Super Bowl unless Mayfield is elite, the defense doesn't do a better job of clamping offenses in the red zone, and they don't finish on the opposite end of the turnover margin (-8 in 2019, ranked 26th) scale.

Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Lamar Jackson doesn't drop off, newly acquired rusher Calais Campbell bolsters a pass rush that ranked 21st in the NFL with 37 sacks, and the rushing offense remains as productive as it was last year.

The Ravens won't win the Super Bowl if Jackson regresses or gets hurt, and the team's loss against the Titans in the divisional round of last year's playoffs proves to be an indicator of problems in stopping the run after Derrick Henry dominated with 195 yards.

Pittsburgh Steelers

The Steelers could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Ben Roethlisberger returns to form after missing last season with a throwing elbow injury, they capitalize on their trips inside the 20 (Pittsburgh ranked last in red zone efficiency at 35%), and linebacker T.J. Watt wins defensive player of the year on a revitalized unit.

The Steelers won't win the Super Bowl if Roethlisberger doesn't play at previous levels, receiver JuJu Smith-Schuster doesn't have a monster bounce-back season, and the team doesn't fix its third-down struggles (converting just 34.36% of attempts).

Autoplay

Show Thumbnails

Show Captions

Indianapolis Colts

The Colts could win the Super Bowl if the offensive line remains dominant, marquee free-agency signingquarterback Philip Riversfinds the fountain of youth with coach Frank Reich, and the defense finally finds some consistency, especially in the secondary.

The Colts won't win the Super Bowl if Rivers and Reich can't match the success they had while Reich was the offensive coordinator with the Chargers in 2014-15, the secondary continues to get gashed for big plays, and the offensive line doesn't open up holes in the rushing game.

Jacksonville Jaguars

The Jaguars could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Gardner Minshew has an all-world performance, a sorely depleted roster just happens to be a group of unknown and inexperienced stars, and if miracles happen.

The Jaguars won't win the Super Bowl even if Minshew has a monster season, but a talent deficiency is far too much to overcome.

Houston Texans

The Texans could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Deshaun Watson enters the MVP race with a season loaded with career-highs, the offensive line actually protects him, and coach Bill O'Brien and the rest of the staff avoids critical game management errors.

The Texans won't win the Super Bowl if Watson, who has been sacked 120 times over the last two years 14 more than the next closest player continues to remain under duress, the departure of receiver DeAndre Hopkins is too big to make up for, and the defense, under new defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, ranks last again in red zone efficiency (71.43%).

Tennessee Titans

The Titans could win the Super Bowl if running back Derrick Henry plays like the offensive player of the year, quarterback Ryan Tannehill proves last yearwasn't a fluke and makes more plays when called to do so, and the defense does more than bend but not break.

The Titans won't win the Super Bowl if their remarkable red zone efficiency from last season (75.56%) and goal-to-go offense (88%) takes a serious step backward, Tannehill can't win games when defenses stifle Henry, and the pass rush remains average.

Denver Broncos

The Broncos could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Drew Lock leads the offense to unexpected levels in his second season, the receiver combo of rookie Jerry Jeudy and Courtland Sutton becomes one of the best in the league, and running back Melvin Gordon stays healthy and is a threat on the ground and in the passing game.

The Broncos won't win the Super Bowl if Lock doesn't take drastic strides, the team cannot overcome the loss of edge rusher Von Miller, who suffered an apparent season-ending ankle injury Tuesday, and they don't improve on their sixth-ranked 17 giveaways from last season.

Los Angeles Chargers

The Chargers could win the Super Bowl if Tyrod Taylor serves as more than just a bridge quarterback with rookie Justin Herbert waiting in the wings, running back Austin Ekeler makes fans forget about Melvin Gordon, and the defense goes from being respectable to being elite.

The Chargers won't win the Super Bowl if their defense cannot make up for the loss of 2018 first-team All-Pro safety Derwin James (out for season with right knee injury), andthe notoriously efficient Taylor doesn't do more than simply protect the ball

Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs could repeat as Super Bowl champions if Patrick Mahomes simply stays the course and makes gradual improvements to his game, rookie running backClyde Edwards-Helaire becomes a force, and the defense continues to make strides under coordinator Steve Spagnuolo.

The Chiefs won't win the Super Bowl if they have a letdown from last season, the secondary becomes a problem that a potent offense can't mask, and a pass rush that was just slightly above average doesn't post gains.

Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Derek Carr improves on his decision making and takes a massive leap, the team's young weapons, second-year running back Josh Jacobs and rookie receiver Henry Ruggs III become dominant, and the pass rush finally breaks through.

The Raiders won't win the Super Bowl if Carr's play remains the same, the pass rush can't seem to rebound since the 2018 trade of Khalil Mack to the Bears, and the defense doesn't improve off of its 24th-ranked scoring defense (26.2)

Autoplay

Show Thumbnails

Show Captions

Dallas Cowboys

The Cowboys could win the Super Bowl if new coach Mike McCarthy's offense clicks right away with quarterback Dak Prescott and running back Ezekiel Elliott, receiver CeeDee Lamb takes off in a performance worthy of offensive rookie of the year, and if the defense gets a second reliable pass rusher to compliment Demarcus Lawrence.

The Cowboys won't win the Super Bowl if the secondary blows coverages and allows opponents to outscore Prescott and Co., depth at safety continues to plague the team, and McCarthy's scheme either doesn't work or takes too long to get going.

Philadelphia Eagles

The Eagles could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Carson Wentz stays healthy and plays as he did in 2017 before he tore his ACL, season-ending injuries to starting offensive linemen Brandon Brooks (Achilles) and Andre Dillard (biceps)are minimized, and the team's rebuilt secondary makes fans forget about the many blown coverages of 2019.

The Eagles won't win the Super Bowl if Wentz misses time, promising young running back Miles Sanders doesn't take the step to become a consistent dual weapon, and the receiving corps doesn't produce more reliably.

Washington Football Team

Washington could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Dwayne Haskins elevates his play significantly, the talented defensive front becomes one of the top pass rushing groups in the NFL, and the team overcomes reports of internal dysfunction and organizational failures on the front office side from the offseason.

Washington won't win the Super Bowl if Haskins doesn't improve on his 58.62% completion rate and takes better care of the ball, if the receiving that lacks star talent struggles, and if the league's 31st-ranked rushing defense (146.2) from 2019 doesn't become a strength.

New York Giants

The Giants could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Daniel Jones owns the offense and does far more than simply manage games, running back Saquon Barkley wins the league MVP after a workhorse season, and new coach Joe Judge implements a culture that gets an unprecedented amount of production from a fairly talent-lacking defense.

The Giants won't win the Super Bowl if they don't massively reverse their minus-17 turnover differential that tied them for worst in the NFL, Jones doesn't enter the top tier of passers, and if a leaky defense continues to allow an unsustainable amount of yardage.

Autoplay

Show Thumbnails

Show Captions

Chicago Bears

The Bears could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Mitchell Trubisky resurrects his career and becomes a dependable and efficient passer, a pass rush that has Khalil Mack and new signing Robert Quinn generates more than a sack on just 5.6% of pass attempts, and coach Matt Nagy's offensive schemes run without a hitch.

The Bears won't win the Super Bowl if Trubisky doesn't take control of the offense and cedes the job to Nick Foles, Quinn disappoints, and an offense that gained a 31st-ranked 4.66 yards a playsputters yet again.

Detroit Lions

The Lions could win the Super Bowl if the offense doesn't drastically improve on a woeful goal-to-go offense that scored touchdowns just 58.33% (29th) of the time, they don't get more out of a pass rush that ranked second-to-last in sack rate (4.58%) and quarterback Matthew Stafford plays like an MVP.

The Lions won't win the Super Bowl if rookie No. 3 overall pick, cornerback Jeff Okudah, doesn't become an instant star, the pass rush remains dormant, and if former Patriots in linebacker Jamie Collins and Duron Harmon don't get this defense completely turned around.

Green Bay Packers

The Packers could win the Super Bowl ifYear 2 of coach Matt LaFleur's offense takes another stride, if quarterback Aaron Rodgers can get the most out of a receiving cast that lacks a star after top threat Davante Adams, and if coordinator Mike Pettine's defense builds on a group that tied for seventh with 25 forced turnovers.

The Packers won't win the Super Bowl if LaFleur's offense regresses, his relationship with Rodgers frays, and the NFL's third-best interception rate of 3.11% drops.

Minnesota Vikings

The Vikings could win the Super Bowl if their defense remains one of the most aggressive outfits in the entire NFL after it generated a fourth-best 31 turnovers, quarterback Kirk Cousins doesn't miss the loss of former offensive coordinator Kevin Stefanski (who became the coach of the Browns) too much, and running back Dalvin Cook builds on a solid 2019.

The Vikings won't win the Super Bowl if Cousins doesn't jibe with new coordinator Gary Kubiak, a very good red zone defense that ranked second last season (43.75%) allows more touchdowns this season, and rookie first-round receiver Justin Jefferson out of LSU doesn't become a consistent compliment to Adam Thielen.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Buccaneers could win the Super Bowl if all of their offseason additions starting with quarterback Tom Brady, running back Leonard Fournette and tight end Rob Gronkowski instantly click, the team gets a steady edge rusher to take pressure off linebacker Shaquil Barrett, and the team can get a consistent rushing game going.

The Buccaneers won't win the Super Bowl if Brady struggles to grasp coach Bruce Arians' offense, andTampa's turnover bug even though former quarterback Jameis Winston was largely responsible lingers and doesn't improve from last year's league-high mark of 41.

Atlanta Falcons

The Falcons could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Matt Ryan plays like he did during his during his MVP season in 2016, the team avoids inconsistent play like it did when it started last season 1-7, but instead gets much steadier offensive production like it did when it finished 6-2.

The Falcons won't win the Super Bowl if running back Todd Gurley II can't find his early career success, receiver Julio Jones finally starts to show signs of decline, and a defense that is built on speed plays like it did in the first half of lastyear.

Carolina Panthers

The Panthers could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Teddy Bridgewater shows Carolina was smart to invest in him and he plays like he did when he was last a team's unquestionedstarter, running back Christian McCaffrey both gets an ample amount of touches but stays healthy, and receiver DJ Moore blossoms into one of the league's most dangerous threats.

The Panthers won't win the Super Bowl if rookie coach Matt Rhule's system takes too long to implement, the team doesn't repair a turnover problem that was second-worst last season (35 giveaways), and Bridgewater doesn't elevate the play of everyone around him.

New Orleans Saints

The Saints could win the Super Bowl if quarterback Drew Brees has one last stellar run in him, the defense makes realistic improvements in red zone efficiency (59.57%), and the entire team enjoys good health to capitalize on what might be the last year to win in a rapidly closing window.

Read the original:
Why all 32 NFL teams could and why they won't win Super Bowl LV - USA TODAY

Say what you will about 2020, but one things for sure: There has been no shortage of barbecue to consume, both as actual smoked meat and as entertainment.

To be sure, the restaurant industry is in dire straits because of the social and economic impact of the pandemic. Barbecue joints are not immune. Though Id say most in Houston are doing sales numbers similar to pre-pandemic levels, some are struggling.

Still, as someone whose job it is to keep up with the comings-and-goings in the barbecue business, I can say with confidence that 2020 has been one of the busiest times ever in Houston barbecue. Just in the past year, at least eight brick-and-mortar barbecue joints have opened: 3rd Coast BBQ, Bexar Barbecue, Big Bertha Barbeque, Fainmous BBQ (new location), Lonestar Sausage & BBQ, OMG Famous Barbque, Texas 202 Barbeque and Woodshed Smokehouse.

Barbecue trailers and pop-ups have been busy, too. Chef Sloan Rinaldi recently announced her partnership with Houston restaurateur Ken Bridges to open the Texas Q barbecue truck in Kingwood. And one of the highest-profile openings of 2020 is the Houston Sauce Pit barbecue trailer, which features, of all things, vegan barbecue.

On the pop-up side, longtime weekend warriors Eddie Os BBQ, JQs Tex Mex BBQ and Khoi Barbecue are still going strong. New additions to the pop-up scene include AM BBQ, MoCo Barbeque and Heights BBQ.

Two additional venues where Houston barbecue fanatics can get their fix are grocery stores and farmers markets. Both Burns Original BBQ and Tejas Chocolate & BBQ have partnered with Kroger to open weekly pop-ups at supermarket locations throughout the area.

Grocery stores and barbecue are a natural pairing. H-E-B continues to open its True Texas BBQ locations in many of its supermarkets, and the Tejas and Burns pop-ups at Kroger have been wildly successful. Check their corresponding Facebook pages for dates and times of future pop-ups.

Barbecue fans will also see smoked-meat offerings at local farmers markets. Feges BBQ has been a cautionary tale in the age of pandemic its brick-and-mortar location in a mostly deserted office-complex food hall has complicated the business model. But Erin and Patrick Feges have responded by upping their takeout service, as well as offering weekend pop-ups of their own.

Recently, theyve had a booth at the Urban Harvest Farmers Market and going forward will be selling their wares at the Heights Mercantile Farmers Market every second and fourth Sunday of the month.

And if eating barbecue isnt enough, there are other ways to consume smoked meats. The acclaimed Chefs Table series on Netflix recently featured Snows BBQ in Lexington, telling the foundational story of pitmaster Tootsie Tomanetz and owner Kerry Bexley.

The current issue of Food & Wine magazine is cover-to-cover barbecue, with a solid list of the best barbecue in every state, among other diverse barbecue stories.

And coming in early October is a revised and expanded edition of the canonical history book Barbecue: The History of an American Institution by smoked-meat scholar Robert Moss.

One area of barbecue thats taken it on the-chin in the pandemic era is events and festivals. The Houston Rodeo Worlds Championship Bar-B-Que Contest was probably the last big event to take place in 2020. Other high-profile competitions such as Jack Daniels, Memphis in May and the American Royal all canceled or postponed.

Festivals including Windy City Smokeout, Red Dirt BBQ Festival and the Houston Barbecue Festival (which I co-founded) were all forced to cancel, though the Texas Monthly BBQ Festival is going virtual this year, selling an at-home BBQ Box to go with an online event hosted by barbecue editor Daniel Vaughn on Nov. 1.

It is certainly the best of times and the worst of times in the barbecue world. We take comfort where we can, and barbecue fits that bill nicely.

jcreid@jcreidtx.com

twitter.com/jcreidtx

See the original post:
Boom of 2020: One of the busiest times ever in Houston barbecue - Houston Chronicle

Lindsay Patterson and Tyler Dragon discuss the upcoming game between the Cincinnati Bengals and the L.A. Chargers. Cincinnati Enquirer

In the midst of a ragging pandemic, the Cincinnati Bengals wereuncharacteristicallyaggressive this offseason. Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin and company constructed a roster that the franchise and fan base feel optimistic about. The Bengals spent over $140 million on free agents and all seven members of the teams 2020 draft class made the 53-man roster.

No. 1 overall pick quarterback Joe Burrow and defensive tackle D.J. Reader headline the teams offseason acquisitions. Plus, the club welcomes back seven-time Pro Bowl wide receiver A.J. Green, who hasnt appeared in a game since Dec. 2, 2018.

Excitement for the Bengals is legitimate.

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow calls out a play during a scrimmage at Paul Brown Stadium Sunday August 30, 2020.(Photo: Cara Owsley/The Enquirer)

Cincinnati has seven new starters entering Week 1. But, do the Bengals have enough talent overall to get out of the AFC North basement?

The Enquirer previews the Bengals offense and defense

Zac Taylors 11-personnel-centric offense was dealt debilitating blows last season due to injuries, A.J. Green (ankle) and Jonah Williams (shoulder) being chief among them. Taylors second season at the helm begins with a healthy squad on offense and a starting quarterback who he had heavy influence in drafting.

The Bengals offense lined up in 11-personnel 77% of the time last season, the most in all of football. For 11-personnel to function effectively, a team needs a playmaking X wide receiver, a reliable slot receiver, a deep threat and a running back who can run the football and catch passes out of the backfield. Most importantly though, its a requirement for the club to have a good quarterback and a stout offensive line.

Taylor and the Bengals believe they possess all of the above when all their starters are healthy. Returning players have expressed confidence in Taylors system. Several Bengals say they are more comfortable with his offensive philosophy and have intimate knowledge of what the team wants to do.

There are just so many pieces were finally putting together that we didnt have in place last year. Now that we have everybody rolling, guys dont have to overthink it or be confused about what their role is and where theyre playing at, Bengals wide receiver Tyler Boyd said. With all the pieces in place, the skys the limit.

Burrow has sky-high expectations, but hell only be as good as his surrounding parts. He does have the luxury of having one of the best wide receiving corps in the AFC, if they can stay healthy. Plus, a Pro-Bowl-caliber running back in Joe Mixon. Although, Cincinnatis offensive line is a question mark even with the additions of Williams at left tackle and right guard Xavier Su'a-Filo.

Anticipate the team to make a more concerted effort to establish the run to ease the burden off Burrow. When Burrow does drop back to pass, most of his first reads will go to Boyd, who he has a solid connection with already, and Green, who the team wants to get going.

The Bengals defense played in nickel 48.5% of the time in defensive coordinator Lou Anarumos system. Expect more of the same in year No. 2 under Anarumo. Similar to the offensive side, returning players claim they are feeling much more relaxed hearing the same terminology.

We are just growing. Growing together as a defensive group. This is year two for Lou (Anarumo) and me, Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt said. We are improving and trying to work on things that we needed to do last year.

It wont be season two under Anarumo for some Bengals defenders, though. Cincinnati revamped their defense this offseason and will trot out four new starters who they acquired in free agency defensive tackle D.J. Reader, linebacker Josh Bynes, slot corner Mackensie Alexander and strong safety Vonn Bell (the defensive wouldve had five new Week 1 starters if Trae Waynes were healthy).

Credit Bengals director of player personnel Duke Tobin and the club for being proactivein free agency in an attempt to upgrade their defense. The Bengals were at the very bottom of the NFL in run defense last season and were in the bottom half of the league in pass defense. Staying stagnant wouldve been catastrophic in a division with the reining MVP and the run-oriented Baltimore Ravens, in addition to Nick Chubb and the Cleveland Browns and Ben Roethlisberger and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Cincinnati finished 1-5 in the AFC North in 2019. The division figures to be better this go around.

In his second season leading the defense, Anarumo wants his bunch to impose their will upfront and stop the run, plus create more turnovers. Cincinnati had a -14-turnover differential in Anarumo's first year as coordinator. The New York Giants and Los Angeles Chargers were the only teams with a worse turnover differential.

We need to not let people run the ball. It has to start there. From there, we have to take advantage of turnovers, Anarumo said to The Enquirer. Interceptions and causing more fumbles, which we have to do. You stop the run, you turn the ball over, then that helps everything else.

Stopping the run and creating turnovers are major points of emphasis for the Bengals re-tooled defense heading into the season. Cincinnatis success in both areas will have a big influence on its win total.

Darrin Simmons returns for his 18th season in Cincinnati. He is the Bengals' longest-tenured coach. The Bengals promoted Simmons to assistant head coach over the offseason, adding to his role as special teams coordinator.

Simmons is one of the most respected special teams coaches in the NFL.

The Bengals'special teams was one of the few bright spots for the club last season. Kicker Randy Bullock converted on83.5% of his field goals, punter Kevin Huber had a team record 42.11-yard net average,Brandon Wilson averaged an NFL-best31.3 yards per kick return attempt and long snapper Clark Harris had no unplayable snaps. The four of them will lead the wayonce again for Cincinnati's special teams.

More here:
Here's what to expect from the Bengals offense and defense - The Cincinnati Enquirer