I think tonight marked the ends of the "honeymoon" with Paul Rhoads. Up to now, a lot of Cyclone fans would defend Rhoads no matter what he did or what the results were. Now, I get the sense that may be over, and he will be treated as a coach should be treated - judged on how well the program moves forward, how many wins it racks up, and the results it produces.
Agreed with everything you said. If I were to make list of critiques that I have for the Rhoads era here's what it would be:
1. The offensive has been below mediocre, and very inconsistent.
2. Bowl preparations (1-2)
3. The failure to build upon great wins. In the three biggest upsets under the Rhoads era (Nebraska 2009, Texas 2010, and OSU 2011), twice the team failed to win the following week with the only victory being against Kansas after the Texas victory. Heck, ISU had four chances including the bowl game to win a game after the OSU game, but failed to do so.
4. The inability to beat KSU (0-4)
5. When expectations have risen, Rhoads' teams have laid a goose eggs (Colorado 2010, Texas 2011, KSU 2011, KSU 2012, UNI 2012) The reason why I listed UNI is because there was (maybe there still is but it may be on life support) excitement around the program but once again there was a failure to live up to it.
I like Rhoads a lot, and I acknowledge the heights he has brought this program. I do think he may get this thing turned around since this team is very young and there were going to be growing pains. Now that expectations have lowered dramatically after last night's lost, I think Rhoads may deliver results once again.