Are Us Fans A Part Of The Problem?

[*ochocincos*]

Certain fans are a problem (like those who threw trash on Palmer's lawn), but every fan base has those fans. Some more of less than others.
The real problem, IMO, is there has been a culture change in Cincinnati since before Marvin Lewis became HC.
Back in the early 2000's, the fan base was appreciative of anyone who could bring this franchise to relevance again. Marvin Lewis helped achieve that relevance.
After years of achieving 7-9 or better, fans became accustomed to that new level of success. They now want and expect more. There's a new standard set.

So thank you to Marvin Lewis for helping establish that new standard in Cincinnati, but it's time to try to find someone to go above that standard.
This city and its fan base wants to be like the Patriots and Steelers, and their fans view anything less than the AFC Championship game as a disappointment.
And missing the playoffs completely is an utter failure.