GumboBC

Over the past 4-years we’ve watched the Saints miss the playoffs. We’ve seen the offense go from one of the highest scoring in the league to one that really seemed to be struggling. And, of course, we watched a defense over the past 4 years that couldn’t stop anyone.

Much of the blame must be placed on Jim Haslett. Say what you want about Haslett but he is the head coach and it’s his responsibility to get this team to the playoffs. Sure, Haslett might not be responsible of acquiring all of the personnel, but it is his job to get the most out of the players he’s got.

Now, some might be of the opinion that Haslett has one of the most talented teams and this club has underachieved more than any other in the NFL. Maybe that’s the case for the offense. But there have been several weak areas there too. Neither OT has played very well. Gandy nor Riley has ever been strengths when it comes to pass blocking.

And the receivers, besides Joe Horn, have never been a strength of this team. Stallworth has never lived up to his potential. Between his injuries and his inconsistent ways, Stallworth has been as much of weakness as he has been a positive for this offense.

Also, the tightends have been as inconsistent as any group on the field. Boo Williams has shown flashes but he’s also shown why he can’t be counted on.

So, while many might see great talent that has be squandered on offense, I see many weak areas.

Then when it comes to the defense, I think this unit should have played better. And I think much of their failure is due to DC Rick Venturi’s scheme. Still, I don’t think this defense has had the talent to finish any higher than middle of the pack.

I think Haslett takes too much blame for not coaching up the talent we have. I believe that there simply hasn’t been that much talent on the team. Not enough to be a consistent playoff team anyway.

Still, it’s Haslett’s job to get this team to the playoffs. And until he does there are going to be many unhappy fans as long as he is the coach.

There have been a couple of good moves this off season. Some of the young players really stepped their game up towards the end of last season. If Haslett can somehow get a playmaking linebacker for Darren Howard, this might be the year Haslett silences some of his critics.