It's mostly McVay, but players are a major part, although not for the reason(s) one might think.
(Except for Stafford - he's a god as far as I'm concerned).
Back to the players - I think we're having an 8-10 win season, despite our lack of overall talent and experience, because of the make up of this group. I get it - talent's important, but the subjective intangibles are almost equally so, imo.
Last year we lacked any quote unquote leaders. I know, you're saying WHAT? What about Stafford, Kupp, Donald and Ramsey?
Yes, they are all "leaders", but QBs are by definition, the team leader. So, okay - Stafford I'll give you.
Donald, Kupp and Ramsey are "leaders by example", and while that's not a bad thing, and I hate to use this expression, but they're too fucking serious. (and love ya JR, but you don't pop a teammate period).
So on offense, I see Avila and Atwell as "fun" guys that can keep it light but motivate at the same time. (Whitworth was an extraordnarily huge loss - his kind don't come around, or hardly ever). I also think Higbee's that guy as well, and that his demeanor has contributed to his longevity. Havenstein seems to be smiling most of the time, and quietly reinforces the attitude I'm talking about. Glad he's here rfor the longrun - hell, everybody is, 'cept OND. Allen's actually a fun guy as well.
On D this year, I think Cobie and Jones back there instead of Ramsey and Wagner - (yeah it's a not an insignificant dropoff, but give them time) - as well as now JJ III, Lake and Tomlinson just create a vibe, if you will, that is going to help you unit jell and excel a lot sooner than people expect. Because they're talented AND fun to be around. Kobie Turner looks to be both.
Anyway, I could go on, but you get my point. And btw, not a hint of a fight in practices.
Am I nuts, or is this more important than one might think?