I posted a view that was wildly inconsistent with my past views on the secondary and Akina. In the past, I constantly harped on the need to play more man to man because I believe it’s critical to stop high powered offenses. I do remember Saban saying that during the playoffs.
I also lamented not having a DB coach who would properly teach the technique we got used to watching when Akina was in charge of the secondary. It was precise and fantastic.
Third, I also made many references in the past at how age discrimination is wrong, not only morally and ethically, but also it’s often a bad business decision.
So why did I react poorly to Akina being the hire? Several reasons. The defense last year was terrific, so I figured they had a scheme they were comfortable with and didn’t need a ‘man’ oriented coach. Maybe they do.
Second, I simply age discriminated against Akina. Whoops. He seemed pretty old the last time I saw and heard him. I don’t know that we are getting Fangio. Maybe he’s fine. I also remember him not being able to deal with a scheme that mixed man and zone. Also, a 68 year old guy is going to turn off some recruits. I guess the rest of the staff can pick up the slack.
So I don’t love the hire, but it probably won’t be a disaster either.