Quote:
Originally Posted by Amnorix
You raise very valid points. I can clarify a few items.
1. I'd be surprised if you guys DIDN'T switch to 3-4. BB clearly believes in flexibility between 34 and 43, but that 3-4 as the base is superior. And if you look at the last 10 years and who has won most of the Super Bowls, I think you can see why. Ravens, Patriots and STeelers are all 3-4 teams, and they have 5 of the last 8 Super Bowl victories between them, and a few appearances (that they lost) in addition. Pats and Chargers have given Peyton the most fits over that timespan -- both are 3-4 teams.
2. BB and SP had shared decision-making in the draft room. BB has stated, repeatedly, that both had veto power. If EITHER one of them didn't like a player enough, the player would be off their board.
3. You should expect Pioli to get a new coach, and to try to work the same mind-meld with him that BB had with him. The Pats think its' critical that the scouting and coaching staffs be VERY closely intertwined. The scouts have to pick players that the coaches can use in THEIR system. They have repeatedly said that they pass on players that might be great players because those players aren't right for THEIR system.
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Quick sidenote: have you read any of the books on the Patriots dynasty?
If so, which one(s) would you recommend to gain further insight on their philosophies?
If we end up hiring Pioli, I'd love to read up a bit more on their draft process, personnel evaluations, etc.