Regarding this discussion let me first start by saying I am completely behind Bob Stitt and think griz nation is on the right path and on the verge of some great things.
I watched almost every game last year live and then again later. We were in every game except at EWU. Every game we played we had great energy and enthusiasm with the exception of, again EWU, but definitely came out flat against NC and MSU. Both later games could have been won simply by playing harder, tougher and with more heart. All X’s and O’s aside, all it would have taken was greater effort.
With that said I would say with 100% certainty that had Hauck been coaching the team last year, we would have won the last two, without a doubt simply because Hauck always had his team ready and they never, ever lacked heart or effort once they took the field. I did not like what happened off the field though. Off the field I felt like some of the players had a high and mighty, pompous attitude, attitudes that may not have been the healthiest in the long run for the University, the community of Missoula, or Griz Nation at large.
Even thought I think a Hauck team would have had a better record last year I have to weight the cost. Our beloved program, our Cadillac whos keys had been passed down with care, was crashing and burning. No one can honestly say that Hauck had nothing to do with it. No, you cannot police and watch every single player all the time but you have to look at the locker room and the culture within. Hauck was the head coach, the leader, he had the keys to the car and shortly after he left the car crashed. I loved Phlugrad and I know we would have success under him but we have to point a small percentage of criticism his way as well.
With all this said I would still rather have Stitt as my coach. He is changing the culture of the team to one of unity. His recruits have reiterated time and again that he takes the time to get to know them above and beyond football. He is getting to know them as men. He is taking the time to ensure that they have the tenor and character to deserve the privilege of being a Griz. He is finding young men who will win with great class and dignity. AND he is bringing in very talented players...allegedly.. The Griz are on the right track albeit a work in progress but I for one stand behind Stitt 100%