re: So when do we actually start giving O some credit?

Here's the deal:
O deserves both some credit and blame.
Both folks who have staked a position will object when they hear one or the other.
I think the choice of O as HC was horrible. But he has done some good things and the overall performance is better than I expected.
On the other hand, looking at his ability to manage the program as a whole, recruit as a HC and keep the program clean, I have some serious concerns. Those are longer term issues.