You mentioned my bias and my over estimating what Leidner showed
I'll agree Nelson regressed at the end of last year. Playing Wisconsin and Michigan State had a lot to do with it. Don't know what happened in the bowl game, but I'm guessing he had already decided to leave by then.
You are way, way over-estimating what Mitch showed as a QB last year. He consistently coughed up the ball and was sacked once every nine times he dropped back to pass. So far, he can't see the whole field and decide quickly which I think is his main flaw. I hope I'm wrong, but I'm fearing he never will. You saw a bunch of strictly subjective things such as having fun and passion because they fit your bias. I didn't see those at all. Take that back--I saw the recklessness--I still see it this year, unfortunately.
I'm almost never critical of specific players, but Mitch's chest pounding and declarations how he was now ready to be the leader and this was his team bugged me at the start of the season. Almost like he was trying to convince himself which isn't a good thing.
Nelson completed 50% of his passes- Leidner 55%
Nelson's efficiency rating was 119- Leidner's was 131.9
Nelson threw 6 interceptions- Leidner one
Nelson averaged 30 yards rushing Leidner 40 yards per game in 10 games
Yes, Leidner fumbled and it was very annoying- I can't find the stats- Nelson fumbled and Nelson got sacked too...what was his sack rate?
I believe that is enough statistical evidence to refute "way, way over estimating what Mitch showed as a quarterback last year"? or no? You are saying he was horrible last year too but Nelson with lesser statistics was better?
"You saw a bunch of subjective things" Yes I did. And yes, I did because I do pay attention to them as a coach. You didn't see them because you weren't looking for them. The point is I'm still looking for them. It is their absence that is alarming to me. Their absence is why Leidner is not playing well imo
Naturally you put your perspective or bias on my using recklessness as a positive. You are spinning it as carelessness with the football. Yes, there was and still is that aspect to his play. But the recklessness I am talking about has been evident to me one time this year on his second touchdown when he ran over a guy to score a touchdown on third down. One time this year by my definition. Many times last year. Playing scared he's gotten hurt twice. Playing with recklessness last not at all.
My point isn't that he is good. My point is he played better last year and if he would have started there and improved this year with a better scheme and last years mindset he could/would be good.
Through three games last years guy is gone and stats show that was an okay QB...but there was also the on field leadership quality you missed that is no longer there any more as well.
You liked Nelson and at one time he was better than Leidner. But by your admission not at the end of last year. So, aren't you saying Leidner was better last year than this year? If so, what are you arguing with me about?
Leidner's chest pounding was in response to a position coaches put him in and quite obviously it has worked out rather poorly. A big part of that has been taking away his recklessness (Zac Epping ness, if you will) and asking him to focus on not getting hurt. Playing with abandon, playing balls out, taking no prisoners, that mentality. If he had that he'd be effective again.