I gave Shanny a D, which I realize is a little harsh but after a guy wins the big one (twice) and takes time away from the game I think the grading scale should get a little tougher.
- Don't pretend Shanny took over a franchise w/o any talent or promise. He took over a FO (namely from the owner IMO) that was in shambles and an embarrassment. Roster wise, he got a sub-par offense but a very, very good defense. Shanny decided to blow up the defense. It doesn't make sense for 2 huge reasons. First, we were arguably a player or two away from an elite defense. Build around phat Al and an emerging dominant DL, get Landry to SS and add the best FS available. Maybe upgrade a LB spot. Presto! We're a dominant, well-oiled defensive machine (think the Giants right now
). Instead by changing to the 3-4 we missed out on the opportunity to take the defense to the next level immediately. But maybe a bigger issue is the opportunity cost of focusing on the defense when the offense needed/needs so much help.
- Shanny neglected the offense. TO is still one of the best WR in the game. We have a pitiful WR corp and could have grabbed him. Silly not to. Our oline is still a disaster. The interior of the line is among the worst in football and that's all on Shanny. He kept Rabach, and our guards either seem not to fit his scheme or just don't have the talent.
- IMHO Shanny has bungled the two major personnel issues to emerge since he got here: Albert and now McNabb. It's just a matter of pride and ego...hard to think of anyone with a bigger ego than our current HC. His way or the highway...He's always right...etc etc.
- Our QB situation still isn't solid. Won't surprise me a bit if we're searching for a new solution during the off-season.
All that said...I love the fact that we're more fun to watch now! My expectations for W-L are right about where the team is, but I enjoy what I see on gameday