Just One Game, But Clearly the Coaching is Significantly Improved

[Da 'Fins]

This will likely be a roller-coaster season for Miami Dolphin fans. Expectations have now increased, but the talent weaknesses (especially on offense) are too evident to expect a big playoff run. When the good teams come along, they will take advantage of those weaknesses.

Nevertheless, those who have been skeptical of Saban or defensive of Wannstedt should recognize that his leadership skills are dramatically better than Dave's and his coaching skills are certainly sufficient to win in the NFL. Yes, it's only one game. But, the Dolphins clearly outcoached the Broncos and 2 time SB coach Mike Shanahan.

Where is all the "He's just a college coach, what's he done in the pros?" whining now?

Consider this telling comment on Saban's coaching from Len Pasquarelli:

"We've noted this before, but it bears repeating: Of the 15 franchises we saw firsthand in training camp, Miami was the best-practicing team of the bunch. Maybe the Dolphins aren't like that every day, but we're betting the timing of practices, the precision and attention to minutiae hasn't changed much, if at all."

http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/columns/story?columnist=pasquarelli_len&id=2159170

 

[Shouright]

Where are the talent weaknesses on offense? When we get Ricky back we'll have the best set of skilled position players in the league. And the line played adequately yesterday against a top-10 defense that put 8 in the box quite a bit.

 

[Da 'Fins]

You may be right with all you say. But, we still don't know for certain about the O-line against a top quality defensive line (I think Denver's is a bit suspect). And, Frerotte may still be inconsistent. The WR's have talent, but have yet to prove they can put together an entire season of consistent play. So, I still think there are significant question marks that one good game will not answer.

I certainly believe the potential is there - but there's a long way to go.