Did Dan learn anything from Franks/Trask? No, probably not. So 78 is probably correct.
Mullen knows Grantham is a crap DC. He knows sideways passing nets sideways yards. He knows EJ is too small and not cerebrally gifted enough to maximize his offense. He knows It’s only a matter of time before AR15 becomes a star in this league because legs don’t require reading the field. You simply go fast and jump over people.
It’s the inner voice that holds him back. It’s too soon to turn the ball over to the underclassman. I have to balance his and EJ’s confidence. It’s not all EJ’s fault. The receivers botch plays. We haven’t lost a ballgame yet, so why panic?
In the back of his head it’s this: I’ve got this rare talent who’s a perfect fit for my oddball offense. I gotta find a way to get him in for more plays. I don’t want to send the wrong message about upperclassmen who work hard and wait their turn. God, if only EJ can turn a high ankle.
There’s a reason why SOS got things done. He refrained from thinking and went all action. You produced, you played.