Pulp friction

The Union-Tribune and the North County Times both had stories today about the friction between Marty and AJ Smith. This is something I'll write a lot more on. For now, it seems that even a 14-2 regular season isn't enough to get Marty out of Smith's doghouse. Marty still has a year to go on his contract but it seems Smith would be glad to eat the last year and finally vanquish his great nemesis. As Tim Sullivan said, in a power struggle, Smith would have the upper hand because of his brilliance with the roster.

On one hand, it would seem anything less than a Superbowl appearance would jeopardize Marty's 2007 return. On the other hand, I get the feeling that this year's conclusion isn't as important as next years'. Smith has to get the okay from Spanos to dismiss ole Marty. I just can't see him giving it this year. But unless the Chargers win the Superbowl next year, I don't think Marty'll be given a new contract.