Wade Phillips has a history of exactly what has happened. He comes in and the D is on fire the first year, and then by year 3 or so they get torched. It's kind of a weird phenomenon with him.
But in the modern era, you either have a QB or your don't. This team doesn't ergo, your going to be a loser. It's all relative but if you aren't going to the dance, you might as well suck hard if there is a chance at a star QB. Just ask the Colts about that.
I think there is a bit more talent than is being described. I just think they have taken out a big ole can of quit. This team has quit on it's coaching staff. They no longer care. I think a new staff coupled with an exciting young QB in Bridegewater could have us right back in contention no later than 2015. This doesn't have to be a 5 yr rebuild. Only in Bob McNair's fantasy world does it take that long to rebuild. Even Jobe would have fired Kubiak before now.
As an aside, Rick Smith doesn't escape liability either. After all, he is the personnel man. So, which is it Bob? Bad personnel, bad coaching, or both? All I know is this draft sucked, and Rick needs to be held accountable.
And that is a huge problem and it start at the very top of the organization. I think Bob wants to win - I just think he is clueless as to how. He has confused loyalty with continuity. He has confused empty and ultimately meaningless gestures for real accountability.
Now as to kissing Thorn's ass, I think I'll pass.