Analyzing Mike Shanahan at the Midway Point

[GhettoDogAllStars]

I would just like to reiterate that the 3-4 was born out of the *lack* of good d-linemen -- ends specifically. It takes two good DEs to make a 4-3 work, and 1 good NT to make the 3-4 work.

The reason we were better last year is because of Haynesworth. Take him off the line and our 4-3 is complete shit. So, why not run the 4-3 with Haynesworth? Because Shanahan is too stubborn to cave to the demands of a single player, regardless of how it might help the team win (in the short term). He's building a disciplined team of professionals that work hard and do their job, regardless of circumstances.

So, in my opinion, we're worse this year because Haynesworth doesn't see the field much (rightfully so, IMO) -- not because we switched to 3-4. That's a simplification I know, but so is just saying that we don't have the personnel for 3-4 and that's why it isn't working.