TriCitySam wrote:Amazes me that folks want to get rid of either Pete or Russ. Pete's a top 5 coach, and has put together incredible records like almost no other. And, I disagree with those that say the game has changed or passed him by. Regardless of recent events, a strong defense and a balanced attack is the most proven way to win. Am I a little unhappy with Russ's comments? Yup, but we are in no position to trade him. Will not, should not. As, they will have a tough time spending a bunch of $ rebuilding the OL. Pete's as good as anyone when it comes to dealing with disgruntled players, and I suspect we'll see some progress in the not too distant future.
I shouldn't have said that I'd rather see Pete get fired. I am not advocating that he get fired, at least not this season.
But he's going to have to re-invent himself if he expects to win anymore championships in the near future. He doesn't have the horses on defense to play his usual Pete Ball. While I don't like how this is all coming down, I actually agree more with Russell than I do with Pete as far as how to improve the team. Pete needs to open up his offense if he's going to win championships with the way this team is currently configured.
As far as Pete dealing with disgruntled players, yes, he's above average and generally has a good handle on his locker rooms. But this is different. He's never had to deal with a disgruntled quarterback that's a bigger star than he is and is in a power struggle with him over the direction of the team.
I don't want to get rid of Russell, either, but he's going to have to bury the hatchet with Pete if he's to continue. It's clear that he and the Hawks are at odds with each other, but just how unhappy and if it's repairable remains to be seen.