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I think it's certainly been overstated at the expense of Heacock and others, but I'd say they've played considerably better than their talent on defense at MSU. The mentality and toughness has taken a sharp change of direction.1) I think that we can put to rest the notion that Mark Dantonio's "schemes" were the reason (or even a major factor) that the Buckeyes defense performed so well in 2002 and led the team to a national championship that season. As usual in sports - and that means every sport at every level - talent is really what matters. Coaching can help to develop the talent and put the talent in the right position to succeed, put at the end of the day, it is the talent that wins or loses games. Funny how Dantonio was a defensive genius at Ohio State (with Mike Doss, Will Smith, Matt Wilhelm, Chris Gamble, Darrion Scott, Cie Grant, Tim Anderson, etc.) ... but his brilliance just hasn't translated to Michigan State (63rd in total defense, 39th in scoring defense this season).
I hate to disappoint you, but Lane is a fifth-year senior. His chances to start are over.generaladm;1298195; said:Shaun Lane made plays on ST all game, he's going to be a great starter, when he gets the chance.
Coaching does matter, just not as much as talent matters. I'd say that talent on the field is probably 90% of the equation ... and because talent can be "coached up" during practice, then maybe the actual break-down is 70% talent, 30% coaching. Bottom line: In college football, the most important job for the coaches is to recruit the talent.Best Buckeye;1298199; said:Very nice write up LJB , Thanks for sharing.
I have to respectfully disagree with one item though,
Regarding Dantonio and his defense, or any other championship caliber team, You have to have both coaching and talent to win the big ones. Just as we had great talent in 2002 we had great coaching too. Everyone of our better D teams had both. I think in a couple years we will see just how good Dantonio's D is.
Not to downplay any other coach's talent but IMO Mark meshed with that team in a very good manner.
LordJeffBuck;1298206; said:Coaching does matter, just not as much as talent matters. I'd say that talent on the field is probably 90% of the equation ... and because talent can be "coached up" during practice, then maybe the actual break-down is 70% talent, 30% coaching. Bottom line: In college football, the most important job for the coaches is to recruit the talent.
Sportsbuck28;1298213; said:My favorite play of the game is still Coleman's hustle to force that fumble after he slipped on the turf.