I dunno about Lahey...I mean, of course drunken bastard Lahey is greatness and shall forever remain just that, but it went on for six seasons, including the movie and the special. Not even saying that it got old or anything, but there's nothing wrong with change, especially him having some real authority for once which could be a fun change for the show. That and especially how it affects his relationship with the boys, and I guess every one else as well. I say it's a good change, and even if it only lasts through out this season, I don't think it'll go away very soon.
of course I could be totally fuckin wrong about all this but I mean...if I don't have any credulence here than you can all tell me three things:
1) fuck
2) off