I can't imagine ever having a top 40 defense with this staff and scheme, no matter the talent. For three years, the D has been lit up by EVERY good, most average, and way too many terrible offenses. And it's just not being outplayed due to talent. Never seen a team so consistantly outschemed week in and week out, making career high games for so many terrible QBs, recievers and RBs.
You'd think Dorito would accidently win a battle against an OC once in a while. he doesn't. EVERY 3rd and long, everyone, including the Coke vendors in the stands, knows what's gonna happen, except Dorito.
First rule of sports. When playing a lesser skilled/talented opponent, put him in a position where he has to make great plays under pressure. Take away the easy option, force the bum VT, Duke, UNC, etc QB to consistantly make tough plays. Don't give some bum an all day, easy first down every 3rd and 10 because you're afraid he might burn you deep.
It's the coaching. Say what you want about our talent, but it was always good enough to do much better than they ever did.