A Few Old Friends Are Back After A Long Absence

LT, Vincent and the boys are back tonight in the first preseason game of the season, seven months since that fateful day on the frozen fields of the Burgh.

It's been far too long.

A few things to watch for tonight against the Seahawks:

- how will the first team defense look in passing situations, i.e. is the pass rush back and can the LBs cover tight ends;

- the running of Michael Bennett, Gartrell Johnson and Jacob Hester;

- will Buster Davis be a factor; and

- will Kevin Ellison make a move to replace Clinton Hart at starting safety.

Unfortunately I won't be tuning in live and will have to rely on postgame reports. It's a shame but it can't be avoided.

Let's get this season started.

Bolts 31, Boys 17

Jacob Hester played for LSU last season and helped lead them to a BCS Championship.

I'm not gonna hold that against him. He's a Bolt now and we can forgive anyone their past.

Last night he scored two touchdowns in the Bolts' preseason smackdown of the Dallas Cowboys. He rushed 13 times for 49 yards, sharing carries with Darren Sproles and Marcus Thomas.

Good overall start for the Bolts, although Romo led the Boys to an opening score a bit too easily for my liking. Hopefully a little too easily for Ted Cottrell's liking too.