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- Apr 29, 2003
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Some have argued that Daunte was not great last year b/c he was missing Randy Moss. Of course his stats were excellent in 2004 without Moss (68% passing; 9 TD's, 3 INT's, and 242 yards/game).
But, the real reason Culpepper was ineffective, though the team itself was lacking any real direction, was that he was missing Scott Linehan. Linehan proved to be an exceptional coordinator (even though one could question his playcalling from time to time). Minnesota really was lacking in coaching last year.
Add to that, Culpepper suffered without an effective running game last year. Bennett was injured much of the year; Mewelde Moore was also slowed by injuries and ineffective. And, Ontario Smith was out all year.
As for his receivers? No real deep threat and they played pretty mediocre. I think Culpepper thought he had to do it all - under that pressure he forced far too many plays compared to years past.
But, this year, with Mularkey as the OC, he'll be much more effective (though, if we had Linehan, he'd be even better, imo). Also, since we are keeping the offensive system the same - Culpepper should be comfortable with it.
He should also have a better running game - especially if Ricky comes back. And his receivers will be bigger threats.
More than all that, is Saban's leadership. What this team has and what Culpepper will benefit from is a true leader at the top.
Of course, I realize he may not play immediately. But, when he comes back, he should be an excellent fit with the offense.
But, the real reason Culpepper was ineffective, though the team itself was lacking any real direction, was that he was missing Scott Linehan. Linehan proved to be an exceptional coordinator (even though one could question his playcalling from time to time). Minnesota really was lacking in coaching last year.
Add to that, Culpepper suffered without an effective running game last year. Bennett was injured much of the year; Mewelde Moore was also slowed by injuries and ineffective. And, Ontario Smith was out all year.
As for his receivers? No real deep threat and they played pretty mediocre. I think Culpepper thought he had to do it all - under that pressure he forced far too many plays compared to years past.
But, this year, with Mularkey as the OC, he'll be much more effective (though, if we had Linehan, he'd be even better, imo). Also, since we are keeping the offensive system the same - Culpepper should be comfortable with it.
He should also have a better running game - especially if Ricky comes back. And his receivers will be bigger threats.
More than all that, is Saban's leadership. What this team has and what Culpepper will benefit from is a true leader at the top.
Of course, I realize he may not play immediately. But, when he comes back, he should be an excellent fit with the offense.