We are three years removed from our last winning season ( Even characterizing that as winning is a stretch).
From that team I believe only Donaldson, Gaynor, Carter and Mccloud, who actually saw playing time, are still here. Since then we have been plagued by immaturity and complacency. Our players have been a part of a losing culture. They were more concerned with partying and social media than honing their craft. The coaches are just as culpuble, it is they who created the lax conditions that nurtured this entitlement.
I understand why Manny celebrated Saturday. At first it ****ed me off, but after allowing myself time to reflect....this is the same team that finished last season 6-7, Losing to Gtech and FIU.
Getting rid of the stink that was last 3 seasons will take more than opening a few windows and letting fresh air in (new talent, new offensive scheme, better coaches). They have to learn to win, like a baby learning how to walk. There will be times they fall down but they have to continue to get up, to fight through the obstacles. You can tell these boys are at the proverbial wall. Their bodies are sore and hurt, but they are still trying without quit. These last two games, for as bad as we have played, I still see what we can become if they are able to push through it. The great teams do it every year, because they understand what it takes to be great; it's learned behavior. We are on the path to learning how to win.
We are 5-1, the last three games have exposed some things that need to be addressed by both the players and staff. I am encouraged by their progress and resiliency, but more importantly their drive to win. We have 5 games left in our season. Let's see how much these boys want it, because the opportunity to do something special in 2020 is there if they continue to fight for it.