The Mystery of Jay Gruden

By The USS Blogger

An award winning article was in the works outlining the fall of Washington’s current head man, his possible replacement, and cementing his place in the star sibling hall of shame next to Byron Westbrook and Tim Hasselbeck. However, following two solid Redskin performances and what appears to be a wide open NFC East, maybe Jason Pierre Paul will be unable to count the number of Redskin victories on his fingers in 2015. And while it’s difficult to admit, Jay Gruden set the tone by doing the anti-Shanahan and making a firm decision at quarterback. Through 18 games as coach, Jay Gruden has compiled a record of 5 – 13, which on the surface, supports the masses; who feel as though he is not cut out for the job. There is substantial evidence to support this claim, ranging from his struggles in dealing with the media, public clashes with his former starting QB, and disorganization on defense and special teams last season. Here’s an important point though—aren’t we as fans just a tad impatient? To some degree I get it.  The Redskins have had countless losing seasons coupled with utter chaos.  The team and owner Daniel Snyder has garnered non-football related national headlines which has produced symptoms of insanity for the team and fan base. 

Looking around the league, it is almost a certainty that we can find a successful coach who started out his NFL career with adversity. Hmmmmm, anyone watch Fox sports? There is Terry, Howie, Michael, and ……..Jimmy. Yes, let’s take a look at the legendary rival head coach whom began his Dallas career with 1 – 15 campaign followed by a 7 – 9 season. We should all know what followed.  But here’s the question:  Can Jay Gruden receive an equal opportunity with the Washington Redskins? The team is displaying vast improvement that includes an emerging level of toughness. Another key component, thus far, is the Redskins are playing solid football with key players being out (i.e. DeSean Jackson, Niles Paul, Chris Culliver, Duke Ihenacho and Bashaud Breeland).  I’m fully cognizant that the NFL is a week to week league and much can change. I feel however, that my newly discovered support for Jay Gruden is modest compared to what was said postgame from this starving fan base that included the terms pro bowler, all pro, and MVP for start right tackle Morgan Moses. Now that’s a joke, maybe Morgan Moses is most improved, but even that’s a stretch.  What I am saying is let’s give Gruden his just due. There’s a high probability that he will be gone if the Redskins finish with seven wins or below.  But what if he’s Jimmy Johnson? The resumes are different, but there is an if.   Especially, if the team is playing at a high level compared to last season. Progression in life is so important for all of us.  In this case, I believe it will translate to an ample increase in victories this season. #grudenadvocacy  

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