- Jun 13, 2014
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I'm not sure about all that. Last cycle , damn near every defensive linemen we targeted was committed bama Georgia or Clemson. The strategy was retarded. We slow played a couple quality players because of this too. Mullen completely botched this position group and it could eventually be his demise.But that's not actually what I said. Yes, I think he and his staff take the blame for who they've signed or not signed(more so the '19 class than the '18). But my point stands, if we'd signed several in this class, it would certainly be nice. However, the likelihood of them stepping in as Freshmen and having solid performances, particularly once we get into SEC play, isn't very good. There's a reason we've all talked about the concerns of our new starters along several OL spots. How many here would feel comfortable with Tarquin, White or Gouriage being the starting lineup?
Again, it's not excusing Mullen's role in not having some more bodies. But the position was severely neglected, by the last staff as well(minus 2017's class), and those are going to be players we have to rely on to some degree this year, like or not. Two or three injuries inside and we're in trouble. What Mullen landed or did not land in his first two classes isn't likely to change that. Still needs to be fixed moving forward, though. No debating there.
To be clear, I'm not calling for his job. I think his on the field coaching has been solid. And if he ever fixes the recruiting and makes the right changes to his staff, we could be what we used to be with him.