i think there is a major reason why the defense and midfield are progressing quicker than the forward line.
Sean Wellman - an excellent defender in his day...backline coach
Scott West - an excellent midfielder in his day...midfield coach
Josh Mahoney - a handy high forward come midfielder...forward line coach
Now im not saying that only excellent players make excellent coaches, or Mahoney bashing, but i think it would be easier to coach the line that you were a very good player in.
I think Mahoney might be just out of his depth with the forward line right now, and maybe when he has the full selection of forwards to choose from things might change for him, but right now he needs a forward specialist coach helping him.
Just my views on this topic