I understand why many don’t want to believe that Patke is a good coach. He is one of Manny’s boys and therefore tainted in your eyes forever. But, for a moment, try and be open minded about the possibility.
Consider that, after Manny announced he was taking the Temple job, Mark Richt immediately promoted Patke to Co-DC after having spent just one or maybe two years on the staff as a position coach. Patke went from GA/Analyst to Co-DC in just two years or so. That’s impressive.
Sure, it’s possible that Richt was lazy, but it’s even more likely that Richt recognized Patke was a good teacher and possessed a smart football mind. Richt was an experienced HC and, while not immune to poor hiring decisions, can recognize talent. Heck, even DSD has stated Patke knows his X’s and O’s but simply cannot relate to players when it comes to recruiting.
We all know Patke is a mediocre at best recruiter, but there is a strong probability that he is a good coach and can develop talent.
We will know one way or another this upcoming season. I’m hopeful Patke can improve the worse performing unit on the team. I’m also hopeful Aristide and others can bring in better talent that Patke can work with