- Joined
- Apr 29, 2003
- Messages
- 3,282
- Reaction score
- 686
Right now, the Dolphins have a must win. In fact, their only hope, as far as I can see, is to win their next 4 at the least. It may be possible to do that and sneak into the playoffs at 9-7, but this is a critical game b/c of Jacksonville's proximity to the playoff picture. And, then they have to win the next 3 in the division or all hope is lost since they are already a stellar 0-3.
That's all obvious, I'm sure. Nevertheless, I hope that they continue to play free and easy - that is, don't play "not to lose" or with fear, but as Saban notes - to strive to play their best on every play and let the chips fall where they may. That mentality is critical.
The interesting test here is that they have put themselves in a position for these next few games with a possibility for the playoffs. This is different from last year when, by the time they started winning, there really was no hope whatsoever. However, they know that in the back of their minds, 10-6 gives them a shot. So, these games take on greater importance.
One of the great challenges in sport, and in football, is to play relaxed and productive - when the pressure is on. They have not shown the ability to get over that mental hump as yet. These next few games - starting Sunday - will be a test. If they win, then with each win, the pressure ratchets up.
In many respects, the next 4-5 games will be a true test of Saban's leadership. I would not say by that - if they lose, he's a lousy leader - but, how well will they play in these games? That's a key.
That's all obvious, I'm sure. Nevertheless, I hope that they continue to play free and easy - that is, don't play "not to lose" or with fear, but as Saban notes - to strive to play their best on every play and let the chips fall where they may. That mentality is critical.
The interesting test here is that they have put themselves in a position for these next few games with a possibility for the playoffs. This is different from last year when, by the time they started winning, there really was no hope whatsoever. However, they know that in the back of their minds, 10-6 gives them a shot. So, these games take on greater importance.
One of the great challenges in sport, and in football, is to play relaxed and productive - when the pressure is on. They have not shown the ability to get over that mental hump as yet. These next few games - starting Sunday - will be a test. If they win, then with each win, the pressure ratchets up.
In many respects, the next 4-5 games will be a true test of Saban's leadership. I would not say by that - if they lose, he's a lousy leader - but, how well will they play in these games? That's a key.
