08-08-2015, 03:52 PM
(08-08-2015, 02:18 PM)Shake n Blake Wrote: Great post. Unfortunately, the culture is that of a 2nd rate team. Small scouting department, poor facilities, no indoor practice field. I don't think it's the entire problem, but it's certainly part of the problem. Kudos to Marv for trying to get things done with the most stubborn, frugal and old fashioned man on the planet.
I think the "2nd rate team" culture is more of a lingering perspective that a segment of the fan base can't let go. It was undoubtedly true quite some time ago (and it could be suggested that referring to them as only "2nd rate" would have been generous). Part of that is understandably due to the fact that the same man sits atop the organizational chart.
Obviously, it cannot be argued that there is no indoor practice facility, though there is debate over its necessity. Nonetheless, you have a point there. However, I have a hard time believing the idea that they have poor facilities even before the various upgrades this offseason. Regarding the scouting department, shouldn't it be judged on its merits rather than simply its size? This team has drafted pretty well for quite a while now. For a franchise who has put a conscious effort into building via the draft moreso than free agency (regardless of whether one feels that is the best approach or not), they have put together a solid track record. I'd rather have a small, but efficient scouting department than a bloated one.
This franchise isn't "1st rate" in every single way, but I don't believe there is likely any team out there that is. As a whole, though, I think they're there. They certainly do have some areas they still need to improve upon and there are valid concerns that Marvin Lewis may not be the one who can deliver that improvement, but it is in his hands this season whether some like it or not, so hopefully this public acknowledgement spurs the necessary changes among the head coach & his staff, the players and everyone else throughout the organization from whom they are needed.
