What are some realistic things to look for this year that would indicate we could turn this ship around sooner than many expect?

Obviously most of us expect to have a bad year given all that's going on. However, I disagree with this narrative that we'll be bottom-feeders for 5 years, which many of the "fans" keep saying. With that being said, I think there are a few things that we should look out for that will tell us if we're on the right track to turning this thing around, while also being realistic/probable.

Offense-

1. They have to be much better at picking up stunts. New line coach, there is no reason for the line to be anything short of top 10. Not just that though, they have to get much better in the run game.

2. The run scheme itself has to be effective and look promising. That would indicate that Culley and Bischof are bringing the most needed aspect to Kelly's offense and they just need to be able to run the ball effectively in this system and roster.

3. We need at least 1 RB to look good. Preferably Lindsay since he's young and proven he can run well before. I'm not sure we'll spend any early draft capital on a RB even if we have a lot of picks so at least one guy has to be good enough to be around for next season.

4. Collins needs to be everything we're hoping him to be. He needs to be that big body guy with reliable hands and a rising hot talent in this league. It just makes it easier if you have the slot in the receiving core filled. We can draft a high potential receiver later on to pair with him.

Defense-

1. Miles Smith said we'll blitz less so we need to generate pressure up front. I don't have high hopes for that. However, we need individual guys to at least play we'll, namely Lawson.

2. We just need the defense to be much more disciplined and working in tandem. Let's face it, there's not a lot of high expectations for this defense but if Lovie can scheme these guys well such that they play decently, I'll be happy with that this year.

3. Roby has to continue to play at a high level and hopefully King comes back and plays well. Those are the only 2 corners I really have somewhat high expectations of.

Coaching-

1. Culley and co need to have these guys well-prepared, disciplined and playing with some passion unlike last season. The guys need to want to play for their coaches. Simple as that.

2. Culley needs to manage the game well. I don't think he's ever had experience with this so prayers but he needs to know when to call timeout, know when to pass/run in important situations. Just because you expect us to lose, does not mean he shouldn't have an idea of when to do these things.

3. Please let some of the rookies/young guys have a fair chance at getting playing time/starting. No more BoB/Romeo school of thought.

What are you looking for this season?