Base10 read about Eric Mangini's induction as head coat. I have to say although he was short on specifics, he made a nice statement. He said (to paraphrase) there is no secret to success in the NFL, it is all a matter of hard work and attention to detail. Wise words indeed.

Some pundits have criticized Mangini since his only head coaching experience was with a semi-pro American-rules football team in Australia in his final year in college. Critics should take not that he won the championship that year. Mangini is also responsible for the scouting of Ben Graham, the Jets punter.

Mangini faces some challenges. The Jets defense should remain relatively intact. The biggest question is the fate of John Abraham. Mangini, being a defensive guy, should be okay on that side of the ball. He should make every effort to keep Mike Westhoff on as special teams coordinator, but that may not be in the cards. The offensive side of the ball, there are more problems. The key problem is naturally Chad Pennington and the offensive line. But this may be insoluble--at least for this year. I can't imagine the Jets cutting him and his cap effect is enormous. The line is the key really. This opens up the running and passing game. This also may not be solvable this year.

Should the Jets draft a quarterback or a running back? Good question. I don't think they are able to grab the stars in this year's draft, but there are prospects later than the first round. Frankly, I think there are QB free agents out there that can play a ball-control offense.

- posted by Base10 @ 12:12 PM