I still have my opinion on the last call. I consider it the biggest blunder in sports.
Yes, PC and Bevell hold ultimate responsibility and some may think Russ was “just doing his job”.
Nonetheless, it’s Russ who threw an INT on the 1 yard line. It’s Russ who forced his way out. It’s Russ who had a career low last year. It’s Russ at the helm of one of the worst teams in the league who before last season, were considered Super Bowl contenders. It’s Russ whose media presence and marketability has dropped off a cliff. The Dangerwich didn’t last long.
Let’s ride Russ apologist…Let’s ride!
It’s Russ who later claimed God said he was using him.
There’s plenty of blame to go around for what happened. We are getting dribs and drabs from a select group but NOT the entire story from all sides. Each person’s POV is accurate to him. That doesn’t mean it’s 100% reality.
In hindsight, did Pete coddle Russ too much? Probably, but he wouldn’t have done so without reason.
Does Russ apparently feel it’s necessary to control all aspects of how he’s presented - even if he actually ends up alienating himself from others? Maybe.
Is Marshawn perfect? No. He’s had his issues with the law and the press and trying to take sides in ways that may have exacerbated some issues with team dynamics.
What about Richard, et al? They felt PO’d about Pete’s treatment of Russ. I get that. But could they have talked to Pete about it privately instead of letting bad feelings simmer? Could they have worked harder to let go of the SB loss?
It’s easy to point fingers in hindsight. It’s also pointless.