Quote:The ST unit had some bad mistakes last year (and many were surprised that he lasted the off-season). Don't forget the bad miscommunication on the failed 4th down punt this season. Critical mistake putting Marshall out there also, who made some bad situational decisions on fielding kick/punts.

 

As for Kirby, while the OL was less than stellar and played a factor in the struggles...there were faaaar too many questionable decisions this season with the RB rotations: Toby suddenly getting a crucial 3rd down run after not getting a single carry all game, Yeldon no carries at the goal line, Denard getting carries at the goal line over TJ, Grant being put in (like Toby) at a crucial point.

 

Don't forget Kirby is the RB coach in Oakland while that offense kept trotting out MJD and McFadden over Murray.

 

You are correct on most ST issues, but I'm ready to put all the blame on Anger. True he was not as consistent this year as a few years back, and he has trouble with the "just right" kick. But he longer kicks were not crazy long, they were how far he normally kicks it distance-wise (near the NFL leaders). The gunners were just really bad all year. (Honestly, Nick Marshall is gone next year if he doesn't get it by training camp).

 

I'd also hesitate on putting all the blame on Kirby for those decisions. Bradley and Olsen have been talking about Red Zone all season. I bet a lot of those calls were made as a group or by those above Kirby. Also remember that Kirby has to get some credit for improvement that Yeldon made over the season and Denard over past few seasons. True Yeldon got hurt, and Denard ended the season on a down turn, but you can only build up the talent/players you are given.

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