there seems to be a culture problem with the program. Muschamp tried to solve it by being a disciplinarian, Mac tried to solve it be emphasizing family. Both strategies paid little dividends. Mullen seems to be trying to look backwards toward a nostalgic Gator standard. I don't know if that is a good message.

Recruiting is an issue, but UF has still recruited at generally a top 20 type level and the team is way underperforming even that goal. Why?

Well recruiting on paper but after...

Players continue to get in trouble off the field to the point where they can't be counted on to be there. Other teams have issues with this but it is a plague with this team and program year after year. On the field the lack of character also props up in the most inopportune moments. The recent classes have too many guys who contribute zero before they get kicked out of transfer on their own. 

This program is beset with injuries that nobody in authority wants to address. Injury prevention should be a thing but I don't believe UF has invested in technology to monitor and train players. Everybody screamed for a IPF, but it's building has coincided with a rash of injuries.  Top down UF should review its practice and training procedures.

Coaching turnover (head an assistants) has always been an issue with UF but has been magnified by roster issues and constant scheme changes. I

I posted yesterday, but how come Smart could assemble a better staff from day one as a new head coach than Champ, Mac or Mullen could at UF or really at any point in their coaching careers? 

I suspect something is amiss in prep football in the state which is not helping but that would take up another lengthy post. 

Still I look at other teams and many (not all) are overcoming all the issues that we argue are holding UF back from competing at the top level. 

Mullen made his rep at MSST by beating the teams he matched up with well talentwise and on occasion punching above his weight. It got him a steady 7-9 wins at a program that historically failed to reach even that level of success. It's early but beating UK is the type of win Mullen could be counted on for delivering it he can't get that right it will be a long season. 

Right now there is no Gator standard just a rudderless program (see Tennessee and Texas). The current players haven't earned anything but they act like they have a place right there with past champions. They don't. 

Jumpman shoes isn't going to fix anything. Time for substance to replace style.