It's the "L" Word (Part Deux)...

[VCU Three]

See Below...I stand by my statements. This team gets what it gets based on a lack of LEADERSHIP. That starts with the coaches and is executed by the players.

VCU starts looking bad when the opponents exert their will. The lack of LEADERSHIP results in the Rams being "played". VCU starts to play the game they want, like trying to run out the clock instead of stepping on the gas.

And when this team doesn't execute or the breaks & calls run against them or they get that "deer in the headlights look", THAT is when they need a leader who looks the team in the eye and says "WE ARE GOING TO WIN THIS GAME..."

Who is doing that? I suggest no one is...

Quote From "It's The 'L' Word..."

Does anyone else feel like some of this starts at the top?

I feel like Shaka is a great coach and obviously can identify and recruit talent (coaches and players)

But I am wondering if his style and temperament may result in some of this. He is very bright and has a book of quotes and all that, but my observation is that he is pretty understated. Sometimes a player needs a kick in the pants.

I am not talking about discipline, I am talking about FOCUS.

I have this theory...

Shaka starts and plays those who practice hard and well. We have a lot of guys who want playing time. They practice really hard and are rewarded....then they play. But that doesn't mean as much. Has anyone lost playing time because they had a bad game?

After Tulane Ed was quoted in the TD "We work on stuff. We do really good stuff in practice, but our problem is our carryover to the games. I don't know if it's nerves or what, but it's something that can be fixed."

I don't think it's nerves (see MSG) but maybe it's because the kids are more motivated to get playing time and/or are FOCUSED on practice. One rule of business is be careful with incentives. Sometimes you get what you wanted and sometimes you get something else all together. The unintended consequences of your actions...