What's different about the skins this year?

[hurrykaine]

There are many explanations for what has changed (including better game-planning, play-calling, sticking with the run, etc.) but the biggest intangible, in my opinion, has been the bunch of guys Gibbs has assembled. Gibbs-type guys.

Wynn (I couldn't stand this guy two years ago because he's such an average DE), Marcus Washington, Randy Thomas, Ryan Clark, Griffin, Salave'A, Sellers, Springs, Cooley, Portis, Jansen, Moss, Ray Brown, etc.....these are all consummate team guys. Sean Taylor - many might consider him a hot-head or immature, but even he is a consummate team player. Many consider Lavar to be a prima donna, but his handling of the lack of playing time, relations with the coaching staff, etc. could've been a lot worse than this. Last, but not least, the biggest example of teamsmanship (is that even a word?) this year has been Benny Ramsey.

I still remember Gibbs' introductory press conference in Jan 2004. One of the things he said that made an impression was "you win by surrounding yourself with good people." Clearly, he meant both coaching staff and personnel-wise. Playoffs, or no playoffs this year, I think Gibbs has turned us into a contender simply by assembling a bunch of character guys. Game-planning, play-calling, etc., while very important to a team's success, are second-order criteria. We had a miserable season last year, and its a testament to the character of our players that we weathered that storm and are now on the road to better things. Sorry to get all Jerry Mcguiresque on the forum, but thought it was important enough to recognize in a new thread.

When I interview candidates for intern/analyst type positions at work, I now find myself asking the question (in my head) - is this a Gibbs-type person?