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Message: [QUOTE="RF2044, post: 795318, member: 40"] I honestly think that fielding a successful team comes down to three main factors: coaching, talent, and schemes [yes, I know that this is a gross simplification]. Anyone who didn't think [not directed specifically at you, Orijinal] that there would be some speed bumps bringing in virtually an entirely new coaching staff probably wasn't being realistic. Especially when a few of these guys are in stretch roles, given their past work experience. We also were facing talent limitations as a couple of key positions. Marrone did a great job overhauling the roster from Gerg levels, but the job wasn't finished even though vast improvement was made at most positional units. Most, but not all. Really, him departing when he did put us in a compromising position; would have been nice to see Marrone stick around for another year or two, just to place the program on more stable footing--but it is what it is. The good news is that these guys seem to be good recruiters. And hopefully, some of these prospects pan out sooner rather than later at QB / WR. Because that's what we need. The schemes seem fine to me--CIL has a good post about this above. The playcalling and general execution are what's lacking. It will be interesting to see whether this changes moving forward, once the coaching staff gets a little experience under their collective belts, once some adjustments are made to the staff [if any], once the talent improves a little, and once the players have been immersed in the system for a year. To me, that isn't a "wait until next year" point of view--it is more about recognizing that this year was bound to be a little rocky, but optimistic that things will eventually iron out [as they did for Marrone]. And of Shafer and MacDonald ultimately end up showing that they aren't cut out to be successful, then we'll have to move on quickly or risk a serious back slide. But as IthacaBarrel stated above, I'm willing to cut these guys a little slack as first year coaches, primarily because of the recruiting factor. [/QUOTE]

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