Really depends on the situation. You got a “rats leaving a sinking ship” feeling when Dooley turned over his whole damn staff after 2011 (even though he ended up massively upgrading one assistant). Losing a couple guys on expiring deals and keeping the biggest names on the staff seems like a lot more of a targeted improvement plan.
The 2 defensive replacements are a bit underwhelming. I do think Pruitt has who he really wants or these hires would not have been made so fast so that makes me feel better.
Pruitt and Ansley are confident enough in their scheme/coaching abilities to risk downgrading in position coaching but upgrade in recruiting. My 2 cents.
The proof will present itself. We have a shot with several top recruits, specifically on the defensive side this cycle. We'll see what they can get done.
How do you know they're a downgrade? They may be excellent young coaches who are hungry and eager to recruit but just don't yet have the shiny resume. The guys they're replacing weren't justifying the big check they were getting.
At first glance, I like the hires. There are only so many big name position coaches out there. I’ll trust Pruitt ATP too.
The coaches that remain from his Year 1 staff? Friend, Moose, Weinke and who else? I’m sure there are more, but not many. That’s a helluva staff turnover for a first time head coach whose heading into his 3rd season. That gives me big confidence, tbh. If you’re not getting what you want, cycle’em through until you do, IMO. So many young head coaches crave the stability of keeping a staff together, and fail to realize that they’re only making a comfortable ride to unemployment. I believe that Jeremy Pruitt is sincerely committed to winning, and most importantly, seems willing to do what it takes to achieve it, whatever that means. I’m super encouraged by it.
Also, I don't think staff turnover makes him uncomfortable. He came from a program where the staff turns over on a year to year basis and continues to maintain a standard of winning.
So how is Weinke still around? From what I've gathered he's average, at best, at his position and doesn't recruit for shit. Am I off?
Yep. Gotta have a great HC, great coordinators, and great S & C. O-Line improved last year even though Friend was still there. That’s Cheney vs Helton. Obviously with Pruitt OC is more important After that I think you mostly just need hard working energetic recruiters.