The comparisons between Payton and Allen aren't really very helpful given the specific contexts of a 'total overhaul' vs 'continuity,' a deep playoff run that earned Payton a lot of leeway, etc. Ultimately, they each have their own coaching record that speaks for itself.
Probably best to just judge Dennis Allen on his own performance as head coach - not as defensive coordinator, but head coach. The guy who has final say over the roster and who does what inside the building and on gameday. Ultimately, the buck stops with DA. If he continues to defend Pete and insist that changing playcalling duties "isnt the thing to do", then they'll go down together.
I was hoping for a new total overhaul when Payton left and still think we're going to get there, it’s just going to happen after 2 wasted years, which is a shame. I thought the NFC South being abysmal might keep us afloat for another division title (which would save DA for at least one more year) but the wheels are falling off pretty rapidly. Hopefully Loomis/Lauscha/Bensel will convince Gayle to rip the band-aid off ASAP at the end of the season.