[jdc65]

I know as a fan it is disconcerting to start over with a new coach. New coach means new systems meaning new players brought in to fit the new systems. It does feel like starting all over from scratch again. On the surface, it would appear that 2 more years with Shanny is better than 2-3 years with a new guy.

But football is about good players playing with confidence, emotion, motivation, and belief in what they are doing. Players also need to feel the organization is doing the best job they can to bring in the right pieces to win. If they lose that confidence or start doubting the direction, it is virtually impossible to be successful.

As fans, we don't know exactly what the players are thinking, but typically when someone on the outside is asking questions, it's a good bet that those on the inside are asking them to. At this point, fans have a reason to ask if the team is heading in the right direction. It's only natural the players may be asking as well.

I take Shanahan's remarks as he isn't sure if players are still buying into what he is selling, and he is putting them on notice. That he is worried about losing the lockerroom, and the character issue is more about playing within the schemes than playing hard.

If players decide the coach is a goner or the scheme is broke or other players aren't cutting it, they'll play for themselves. Which means bypasssing specific assignments and taking risks to make a big play. That very well is what appears to me to be happening, and a justifiable reason to consider making a change.