I don't believe that. This feels different than after Gregg's, Mularky's, or Chan's first season. Can't argue the results are the same, but there's a sense these guys--coaches and Whaley at least, belong in the future of the NFL.
With Rodriguez and Easley in the game early, it appeared like the tank was on for a higher draft pick. The Dareus suspension plays to this theory as well.
We finished the season against a team that has their act together at both lines. At times our DT's were blown back near to the second level. We can't get much better than we are unfortunately.-- Instead though, we gotta outscore them. Which is more likely, and do-able with a legit TE and better qb play.
Now recently the game was moved to 4pm. I don't have league schedule in front of me, was this move by the league made to save New England from potential injury if early games decide final playoff standings?
Next season EJ will get the routes better. He'll learn the offense at his pace- accuracy will improve and we'll compete for the division title next year.
The only really big thing Marone faulted on was not being clear to the QB coach enough to drill the qb slide techniques to Manuel.
Knowing this year is all about him--his development critical to the three year plan...and to not coach him up enough derailed the plan.
It was a correct call on the field. Fine? No.
I think in all this drama that is Byrd's life, he never learned the new rule. What the damning part is--he came in free to the qb untouched-- not influenced by any struggle.
I'm over the moon with the coaches on this team. Some with little to no experience, Key position injuries, tough schedule--the games have been entertaining and close.