Talent-wise and depth-wise, yes we have greatly improved. Casual fans look to the starters to measure a team's improvement. But Philbin's teaching methodology and belief in the draft has helped us turn over the bottom and middle parts of our roster in many areas with quality and promising young talent. We have NOT been able to say that on this magnitude since Jimmy was here.
And frankly, if Hickey has another draft like this one, we will have washed all of the Ireland stain off of this team. Hickey's finds "acorns" in bushels. Ireland was picking them up one at a time.
I also believe, from top to bottom, this organization has better staff than before Philbin.
Philbin's weaknesses thus far have been closing out the season, playing to the level of his competition and delivering signature wins. Philbin addressed Bullygate in his own way with player moves and coaching moves, rebuilt the OL from scratch and parted with his longtime friend at OC. All in all, he has made a lot of big decisions in the past offseason. Yes, he was responsible for allowing those problems to develop. But he DID address them and implement a solution. So, that's a wash at this point.
Philbin had 4 ugly losses last year against inferior opponents (Bucs, Bills, Bills and Jets). Flip that script and we are 12-4. Where we a legit 12-4 team? No. But it was the schedule we were handed and was ours to win or lose. Had we been upwardly progressing, we would have been 12-4, albeit an inflated 12-4.
Philbin has to put the Jets and Bills in his rearview mirror. He cannot simply stand on the offseason changes alone. Those were problems he had to fix. But in the grander scheme of things, he also has to make improvement. He must finish at least 2nd in the division, make the playoffs and prove Tannehill is a Franchise QB. Other deficiencies will be addressed in next draft (mainly RB, LB and a last piece to the OL). But this year, he has to show Tannehill can win with team deficiencies and put this team on his back. We need to WIN because of Tannehill.
Finally, this year, we need a signature win. Sweeping the Jets and Bills are not signatures. They are on the list of things to do, but still not a signature. For me, I see 2 real chances at signature wins this year: 10/12/14 vs Packers and 12/14/14 @ Patriots. We need 1 of those 2 games. And we need to at least split with NE this year. I would like to see a competitive game @ Broncos on 11/23/14. I do not want to see another Saints game. We should not be outclassed again. Possible? Yes. But not if we are making strides.
I believe in Philbin. I don't always agree with his decisions. But he believes in those he hires and expects them to do their jobs. Honestly, a stronger organization is made from believing in each person to do their job. And that's what we need: A strong organization.
Dallas Thomas is a great example. Philbin will keep cultivating Thomas' talent. Even if he only remains as a backup, Philbin will get the most of him and each draft pick.
I think we have the right coach for us. We may not like his deficiencies, but he wants to be here. He has a long term vision and believes in those around him. He works within and it takes time. But it does provide for long term stability.
Stay the course.
