I remember a time when I didn’t watch any of the preseason games. My thoughts were that the starters wouldn’t play long and the game didn’t count so why bother? The few times I did turn them on it was just to watch the first half.

It wasn’t until I started watching the second half that I started really being interested in the preseason games. It’s probably the best reality show on television, though I might be saying that because I don’t like reality television. I like to watch the fringe players battle for the last few roster spots.

But there is a lot to watch for in this year’s preseason. We’ll get our first glimpse of the Garrett offense. How much Norv Turner will be in it? What new wrinkles will Garrett add?

We’ll also get to watch the Phillips 3-4. As everyone has no doubt heard by now, it is an attacking defense that should generate more pressure on the quarterback. But one thing I’m most interested in seeing is the effect of the cornerbacks lining up to the outside of the receivers instead of the inside. In last year’s defense, they lined up on the inside and took away the middle of the field. By lining up on the outside, they are better able to defend the sidelines, but they give up the middle. But it also allows the cornerbacks to keep an eye on the quarterback and react to the ball — which should lead to more interceptions. Plus, those receivers going over that ‘open’ middle of the field will be running into Roy territory.

We’ll also get our first glimpse of our first round draft pick, Anthony Spencer. It is a big transition going from defensive end to outside linebacker, and we’ll get to see how well he is making the adjustment.