I don't disagree with what you are saying.
I would just comment that losing a close game to an inferior opponent (Jets, Jags, Broncos, Pats) last year doesn't mean they were prepared for those games just because it was a close loss. I'd argue even a close win against a bad Giants team was bad coaching.
But as you said, this happens to all teams and all coaches.
They just can't afford to come out flat on national TV against an 0-2 opponent that is desperate for a win.