Stephen Holder

stephen.holder@indystar.com

Be careful what you wish for.

Many readers over the course of this season have expressed some level of dissatisfaction with the philosophy of Colts offensive coordinator Pep Hamilton.

I get it. You don't love the power formations, the extra tight ends, the runs up the middle. Most of us would rather see Arians-esque deep throws, four-wide formations and the like. As they say, defense wins championships, but offense sells tickets, right?

So, now that Hamilton is preparing to interview with Vanderbilt University for its vacant head-coaching post, there's been some scattered expressions of glee from a segment of Colts fans over the prospect of Hamilton departing Indianapolis.

But there are two problems with this way of thinking. No. 1: Hamilton did a better job than many people are giving him credit for. His ability to mold his offense throughout the season as the personnel changed dramatically because of injuries is a major reason for the Colts' late-season success. Sure, Andrew Luck was transcendent at times, but Hamilton helped his supporting cast give him a considerably better chance to succeed.

No. 2: If you think Luck and the young members of the Colts offense having a third offensive scheme and coordinator in as many years is a good thing, you probably need to put down your Xbox controller and realize this isn't a Madden video game. This is the NFL, where continuity matters, offenses are complex and playbooks difficult to grasp.

The Colts should feel confident about going into Year 2 under Hamilton, with many of the young players who were slow to pick up the offense this season sure to grow in their second year in the scheme. Hamilton's offense is comprehensive and not easy to learn, but being forced to digest his complex playbook will make them better, smarter football players in the long run.

Continuity is arguably the biggest reason losing Hamilton would be a setback. Considering he coached Luck at Stanford and the two have a good working relationship, there is little down side to them continuing to work together. Don't think Peyton Manning didn't benefit greatly from having Tom Moore as his offensive coordinator for 11 seasons.

Hamilton has strong credentials and it's possible Vanderbilt will make an offer (though they're also interested in Rams offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer and Stanford defensive coordinator Derek Mason).

And if he winds up leaving, some might be happy in the short term. But there will be implications if that happens.

So, again, be careful what you wish for.