Aqua4Ever04 said:
I love how you challenge this fact based on opinions. In 2005 the OL allowed 4.4 YPC and only 25 sacks. It was basically the same line so why was it so crazy to think they would be good?
AQ4F,
This comment is not meant to be offesnive but merely represents realism, as I see it.
The offensive line was a chimera. Good coaching, sneaking up on some teams, unfamiliarity by opponents, covered over the fact. But realists like Saban and Houck no sooner finished the last season, then they went looking for a LOT. They knew that it was a fluke that couldn't continue.
They demoted McIntosh, cut him, and got a guy found wanting in AZ and Cleveland in LJ Shelton, and a guy that had talent but got injured din JAX, and never was the same. They brought both in and crossed their fingers than the would find at least acceptable mediocrity.
No such luck. They had to eventually go back and resign McIntosh.
So It wasn't a surprise to those closest to the situation, Saban and Houck.
If Saban made any mistake, it was allowing the hype to get out of hand. If he had squashed it, and said back then, we have a major re-building to do, he wouldn't be facing these dashed hopes. He should have said something to the effect that ..."it is what it is...". We don't have much of a draft either, it will take time...
Maybe the ownership wouldn't let him. They have to sell tickets and the Phish Phans are spoiled and won't buy tickets if they don't expect to win. Miami doesn't get many sellouts.
I think Saban is a good coach and has assembled a superb staff. If you want the Aqua and Teal to rise, give Saban the time he needs. Like three more years. He has a long way to catch up; Belichick has been building for going on six years now.