[Goose]

I was pretty much referring to play calling. Sweet reasoning during a game would most likely result in more DOG penalties. . . .

True, but it seems we did a bit better on the DOG front this year. There is no question that the play calling this year has evolved considerably from the start of the year. While we all may question the exact play that was called at a particular time, I would argue that the overall strategy has certainly changed, and that is where an OC can have plenty of effect without actually calling the plays. It is very probable that Tavita would call the plays much like Shaw does, as those calls are based on the philosophy of the offense. If you want a different philosophy, you either have to convince Shaw or replace him. There is no doubt that the philosophy has changed substantially this year, willingly or under duress. How much of that is Tavita? I don't know, and I don't think anyone here does either. But to assert there is little or no contribution from the OC is no less an assumption than the opposite would be.
David Shaw is a "hands on" guy. However, he also seems to be a reasonable guy. Many coaches are "hands on" and not reasonable. Those coaches don't take input, because they know it all. I don't think Shaw is like that. That is based on nothing but his public persona, as I have never met the man. So, while it might not be flashy, Tavita may have a lot to do with what we are running today.

[Goose]

I was pretty much referring to play calling. Sweet reasoning during a game would most likely result in more DOG penalties. . . .

True, but it seems we did a bit better on the DOG front this year. There is no question that the play calling this year has evolved considerably from the start of the year. While we all may question the exact play that was called at a particular time, I would argue that the overall strategy has certainly changed, and that is where an OC can have plenty of effect without actually calling the plays. It is very probable that Tavita would call the plays much like Shaw does, as those calls are based on the philosophy of the offense. If you want a different philosophy, you either have to convince Shaw or replace him. There is no doubt that the philosophy has changed substantially this year, willingly or under duress. How much of that is Tavita? I don't know, and I don't think anyone here does either. But to assert there is little or no contribution from the OC is no less an assumption than the opposite would be.
David Shaw is a "hands on" guy. However, he also seems to be a reasonable guy. Many coaches are "hands on" and not reasonable. Those coaches don't take input, because they know it all. I don't think Shaw is like that. That is based on nothing but his public persona, as I have never met the man. So, while it might not be flashy, Tavita may have a lot to do with what we are running today.