All systems go for the real Spurrier. (NFL).

For those of us who are convinced Steve Spurrier is a gifted coach, it is simply best to consider his first season with the Redskins as a misprint on an otherwise sparkling resume.

Everyone is allowed a stumble, and that is what Spurrier did in 2002. If the 7-9 result can be viewed as a learning process, then at least he received ample education. The Redskins probably weren't good enough to make the playoffs anyway, and they certainly didn't get much help from a coaching staff that was uncertain about the starting quarterback, the starting running back and the elusive concept of proper pass protection.

Now owner Daniel Snyder, after a couple of years of wallet hibernation, has resumed his rapid spending. But instead of buying veteran players with star power, as he did as a rookie, he now is concentrating on athletes with a greater upside.

Still, money is money, and Snyder and his $25 million coach are keenly giddy about their team's postseason possibilities. Which means the coach I envisioned when Spurrier jumped to the NFL needs to show up on the sideline this fall.

It is one thing to lack talent; it is another to be devastated by sacks, turnovers, clock management problems and indecisive ...