Petersen sets a standard.

You have to be a moron to not understand the kind of environment that Petersen establishes for his coaches. As the profile piece in the Seattle Times revealed, aside from scripting every detail of every practice, he straightens things up in the locker room, even picking up sunflower seeds if he sees them on the ground. His attention to detail is off the charts.

Do people think that his assistants don't notice this too? By conducting himself in such a way, he is setting a pretty lofty standard that causes his subordinates to think: "Shit, I can't let the boss see me slouching. If he behaves this way, I better follow suit." Do people think that Sark's assistants viewed him with the same level of respect? Did sark keep his assistants on their toes in the same way?

And these bullshit comparisons to willingham are just that - bullshit. willingham was just an asshole that knew nothing about football, and just wanted things his way because he is a dick.

Petersen actually has a phenomenal record to go with his required attention to detail. This is what gives me some level of comfort when kawasaki's defense is getting torched, or whatever. Petersen sets an example of excellence and creates an environment that people have to follow, or get out. Players, assistant coaches, water boys, whatever. Having this kind of boss is not easy. It often sucks. But it makes you better.

It's what should give people comfort that better days are ahead. He runs a tight ship and expects excellence. He won't allow shit on the field, because nothing about him is shit.