I'm a Lane guy, but can't defend him on this game. Getting their asses kicked by a slightly above average Arkansas team. I don't know if he checked out after that Alabama game. I think that game meant a lot to him and they chocked in the final series. Regardless, it's up to Lane to get his team ready, and he clearly didn't do that for this game.
As bad of a beat down they are getting, his offense has still put up over 570 yards. Those 3 turnovers and 10 penalties have killed them. Again, that is on Lane. If we blame Mario for not getting his team mentally prepared, then we have to blame Lane when his team lays an egg.
I do think Mario will have us better over the next few years, just not sure we will be playoff caliber. I hope I am wrong, and I am not giving up on Mario yet, but it's been a bad year.
And yes, I also think we would have a winning record this year if we went with Lane and in the playoffs within a couple years. I would still take Lane over Mario, even though I know he's not considered a program builder.