Might Dirk Koetter Battle Mike Smith For Assistants?
January 10th, 2016
Super NFL insider Ian Rapoport of NFL Network is all over the numerous ongoing head coaching searches.
In this video, he explains that the Giants want an experienced head coach and appear to be narrowing their list to Doug Marrone and Mike Smith, who will interview with New York tomorrow. (What about Lovie Smith?)
It’s intriguing that Mike Smith is the guy who hired Bucs’ offensive coordinator and prime head coaching candidate Dirk Koetter to be his OC in Atlanta. Before that, Smith was defensive coordinator in Jacksonville (2003-2007) under Jags head coach Jack Del Rio (2003-2011). Koetter was hired by Del Rio to be his OC (2007-2011).
The point is that Koetter and Smith are close and have worked on two staffs together. That means they likely have many of the same assistant coaches in mind.
What happens if the Giants hire Smith and the Bucs haven’t hired Koetter? That likely would deal a blow Koetter’s potential Tampa Bay staff.
Team Glazer and Jason Licht have an awful lot to consider as they compete with Cleveland, Tennessee, Philadelphia, New York and San Francisco for a head coach.
January 10th, 2016 at 4:05 pm
Blair Walsh just did a Brindza!!!…….that’s a new word for missing a chip shot.
How would you like to be a Cincy or Minn fan?
Pure misery….
Go Bucs…..Find the Joy!!!
January 10th, 2016 at 4:08 pm
ouch,,,crazy games
January 10th, 2016 at 4:09 pm
What happens if the Giants hire Smith and the Bucs haven’t hired Koetter? That likely would deal a blow Koetter’s potential Tampa Bay staff.
Well he has his D line coach…his QB coach…his Oline coach already in house.
We’re really down to the DC if it’s Koetter’s who is the man. Is it possible Koetter and Mike Smith have the same guy in mind…perhaps…but I’m not too worried about this. There is more than just one qualified DC out there to be had.
But if your point is the sooner we get Koetter signed and announcements made so Koetter and Licht can begin looking for a killer DC (is there any chance it’s Cullen?) and any other coaches they need.
I’m assuming with Licht getting this much power we are not worried about any of this interfering with out draft preparations?
January 10th, 2016 at 4:10 pm
TBBF
Yeah what a crazy ending…overall a good old fashioned struggle though. I must say I enjoyed both the Cincy and Minny games even though they didn’t end like I wanted. Some good smash mouth football!
January 10th, 2016 at 4:11 pm
I was pulling for Seattle to lose.
January 10th, 2016 at 4:30 pm
What the hell is taking so long to get this done????!!!!!!!
January 10th, 2016 at 4:33 pm
Do we have any more interviews set up….does anybody know….if this isn’t done fairly soon…it’s probably not Koetter.
January 10th, 2016 at 4:34 pm
I’m hoping for an announcement tomorrow on Keotter as the coach, Friday at the latest. We need to get this show on the road
January 10th, 2016 at 4:38 pm
I’m with you Supersam. Git er done!!!
January 10th, 2016 at 4:39 pm
What if Koetter is waiting to see if Mike Smith get a H.C job and if he don’t maybe Koetter hire Smith as D.C. many may not like it but the two was very successful in Atlanta. Smith has been a successful H.C in the league and this would surely help Koetter with being the H.C Smith also ran a similar defense as the bucs and it was pretty successful in the nfl
January 10th, 2016 at 4:46 pm
a “no news weekend” … not sure what that means if anything …
January 10th, 2016 at 4:50 pm
Smith’s defenses in ATL were not good.
He brings no value to defensive side of ball, imo.
January 10th, 2016 at 5:04 pm
Saban, mmmm
January 10th, 2016 at 5:04 pm
Kirk freaking Cousins facing the wimpy cupcake in the playoffs.
January 10th, 2016 at 5:07 pm
Watching Michael Bennett almost unblockable…watching the Deadskins HOST a freaking playoff game…it’s hard to not think of what could have been.
January 10th, 2016 at 5:09 pm
Skins….1st & goal from the 1/2 yard line…..3 points…..
Bengals meltdown…..Vikings missed kick….
Glad to see there are other teams that can play like the Bu
January 10th, 2016 at 5:14 pm
Yeah TBBF and Aaron Rodgers missing wide open receivers! I won’t be so hard on #3 over his innaccuracy. I guess everybody can have a bad game eh.
January 10th, 2016 at 5:17 pm
Rodgers….simply average without protection….
January 10th, 2016 at 5:17 pm
A question for JBF Bucfans…OK the Bucs are your number love!
Which team is in 2nd or third place on your rooting list. Anybody still really excited by the playoffs.
I’m going down fast…no Bucs…and now no Bengals and because of my summer home my 3rd favorite team is the Pack…I don’t think they’re really a threat either. I’m thinking KC is looking pretty good right now!
January 10th, 2016 at 5:34 pm
My hometown team: Pittsburgh Steelers
January 10th, 2016 at 5:41 pm
3 Bucs start for Redskins…
January 10th, 2016 at 5:42 pm
Starting to think it may not be Dirk after all…something is up the Amish owner’s sleeves…
January 10th, 2016 at 5:44 pm
If Koetter was a lock for the Bucs HC job he’d have it already as we satisfied the Rooney Rule this weekend. Funny, but the only vacancy filled thus far is the Dolphins, which also happens to be the only team that has no chance at Saban. Tomorrow night and Tuesday could be very interesting as all these teams make a run at him. I think Dirk is a Bucs coach no matter what in 2016.
January 10th, 2016 at 5:48 pm
Mike Smith was Sporting News NFL Coach of the year three times.
That’s not bad!
January 10th, 2016 at 5:54 pm
Wonder why Mike Shula is never mentioned.
Great job with Cam. And the Panther offense.
January 10th, 2016 at 5:56 pm
I agree with you 76
There’s no doubt that if, as so many people assumed, Koetter was the guy then it would already be a done deal. There’s no reason for it not to be
Saban just fits the MO of the Glazers and in my opinion is exactly what the Bucs need right now. Bringing in a defensive minded coach also means that Koetter will probably be here next year.
Another couple breadcrumbs for why I think we’re going to make a run at Saban
The Jameis connection. Saban recruited Jameis at Alabama and knows exactly what he’s about. He knows how important it is for success in the NFL to have a franchise QB
The Bellicheck connection. Both Licht and Saban worked with Bellicheck in the past. I think that Licht and the Glazers can sell a GM/Coach relationship similar to the Pioli/Bellicheck connection in NE. The only stipulation I’d give to Saban would be that Licht is the personnel guy and you’re the coach. Obviously he’ll have a ton of input and probably final say over the 53, but Licht should remain in charge of the draft and take over free agency
January 10th, 2016 at 5:57 pm
Ummm . . . .we had Shula before. Cam is the Carolina offense. No Thanks.
January 10th, 2016 at 6:05 pm
I always enjoy watching former Buccaneers like the Redskins Mason Foster, Deshazor Everett and Dashon Goldson. I would think Jason Licht wants to still interview Josh McDaniels before making a decision.
January 10th, 2016 at 6:06 pm
Does Smith run a 4-3 Defense?
The BUCS have a lot of Money tied up in a 4-3 WLB and DT
January 10th, 2016 at 6:10 pm
I’m sure we would not hire Shula, but why isn’t he getting any play with anyone.
Seems like he should get an interview,
Koetter is the second coming because of the good work with Jameis.
Shula has done just as well with Cam.
January 10th, 2016 at 6:12 pm
Koetter is not being hired by anyone else and he’s under contract. He’ll remain OC and they’ll get another HC.
That’s my drunken prediction.
January 10th, 2016 at 6:20 pm
Shula may have done nice work with Cam and he may be a great hire but one of the reasons he’s not hot here is because of his first stint with the Bucs..YUK
But people grow and he’s had success recently and sooo…but not over Koetter.
As for Saban…have you guys really thought this through. Yes Saban is an exciting thought because in the NCAA the man has just been incredibly successful. NFL…not so much!!! Again two different games.
But most of all what makes any of you think we could get Saban here? Simply to work with #3. Listen I love #3 so I’m prejudiced, I wouldn’t argue with any of you who wanted to say #3 is the most promising young QB in all of the NFL.
OK so you”re all saying that Saban is going to risk a legacy to be the greatest college football coach ever just to work with #3?
If he wins against Clemson he’ll TIE Bear Bryant. If he stays at Bama where he’s god and has total control do we think it’s a long shot that he can win one more…#6. Or he can come to the Bucs and hope #3 stays healthy..and in a best case scenario be one of FIVE coaches to win the NCAA and NFL championships.
Never say never and stranger things have happened but really…given his family attitude and everything on the line..I just can’t even imagine it.
BTW IF he came you realize Licht goes back to lapdog statues. Saban is not going to leave the one of the very best, most secure coaching jobs in the country unless he has TOTAL control. Total control scares me. It’s not generally a good thing.
January 10th, 2016 at 6:23 pm
Goldson just got burnt on that touchdown pass to Adams.
January 10th, 2016 at 6:24 pm
The Saban thing does make some sense. And I doubt they would wait unless his agent had given some wink and a nod.
Another is Josh McDaniel.
The dude who drafted Tebow. That one makes me super nervous.
January 10th, 2016 at 6:25 pm
@st. Pete – agree completely re: Saban and his legacy and the control / power
January 10th, 2016 at 6:33 pm
Nobody talking about Jimbo? I think we could get him if he is not convinced he has a jameis winston quality qb on his roster now. FSU fans don’t want it. But I think he would win alot with winston. Winston loves him and he seems like a hard nosed coach. I think they are considering it. At least reaching out to him
January 10th, 2016 at 6:34 pm
Saban is not exactly the King of loyalty.
He left LSU for the pros then hauled ass to Alabama after vehemently denying interest.
Plus I think he was close to going to Texas
Wouldn’t put much stock in his public statements, based on his track record.
January 10th, 2016 at 6:36 pm
no, to Saban
January 10th, 2016 at 6:37 pm
Not that I am advocating Saban. I could see him controlling the temperature in the away game meeting room.
Not my kind of guy.
January 10th, 2016 at 6:46 pm
I like Jimbo and consider him to be one of the top coaches in the nation.
And if we went with a college coach Jimbo would be as good a choice as any.
I simply do not thing he brings what Koetter brings to the table. Not only college experience but also plenty of NFL experience and experience with this offense which has now had a year to learn his system.
I think Jimbo interest is like the Browns perpertual interest in Urban Meyer. Another situation where a great college coach happens to be right down the road.
January 10th, 2016 at 6:49 pm
Guys, the reason why they haven’t announced Koetter yet is because I’ve heard he isn’t number 1 on their list if coaches. From what I hear is that they want to talk to Gruden. I think that’s 1 reason why Licht was quick to mention power sharing when it comes to the roster. Tbh we might be able to keep Koetter without having to promote him to HC. He’s interviewed for 2 jobs. 1 was Mia. Whom just hired Gase and 2. Are the 49ers whom look to be dead set on Hugh Jackson. I for one pray that we get Chucky back. I think him, Lict and, Winston would bring multiple championships to Tampa Bay and I feel Hardy will become a great DC one day. He’s already one hell of a lb’s coach! Go Bucs!
January 10th, 2016 at 6:54 pm
I don’t think anyone is predicting Saban will come here. I’m engaging in naked speculation! No doubt there are overwhelming reasons why he stays at ‘Bama. But, and this is a big but, if he is interested in a return to the NFL I could see why he’d consider us.
January 10th, 2016 at 6:59 pm
Tell us 1Buc, who is telling you the Glazers and Licht want to talk to Gruden? And if that’s the case then why haven’t they done it already? After all, it’s not like the logistics are complicated. Licht could just ride his bike over to Jon’s house.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:03 pm
Some of the bucs “almost” hires over the years are interesting.
Parcells (twice)
Bill Belichick
Spurrier
Chip Kelly
Wonder how it might have turned out different.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:08 pm
Bucfan76
I agree that IF Saban decided to return to the NFL the Bucs would probably be his best choice. The Glazers would give him all the power he needs and he has the best young QB in the NFL.
Here’s a wild thought. What if Licht is personally very comfortable hiring Koetter.
What if however he simply wants to perform some due diligence before signing on the dotted line.
At the end of the day what comforts me is if the Glazers have turned all of this over to Licht and they do not return Licht to figurehead if they find somebody they want as much as they apparently wanted Lovie.
Power corrupts…absolute power corrupts absolutely. I just do not see any coaches who I want to give that much power.
If a great coach wanted to move up and get all the power…then let it be as director of football operations with both the GM and Coach answering to him.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:08 pm
@bucsfan76
Probably not a good idea to speculate while naked. Weirdo.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:12 pm
Ya better to speculate in a banana hammock at the very least
January 10th, 2016 at 7:15 pm
Just think this thru for a second.
Gruden was unavailable until today,as he called last nights game.Bucs need a home run,sure thing coach that can groom Winston,rally the fan base and revive Our national reputation.He would bring prime time games and fill the stadium.
I think it’s been so quiet,that this may be the play,seeing how. The glazers pursued him before Lovie.
The fit is to perfect,the timing is right,Gruden will never get a opp more perfectly set up then it is now.A team full of young studs,A butt load of cap room,nowhere to go but up and some franchise cornerstone players.And he wouldn’t have to move and you know Team Glazer will pay the man.
It’s time for the “Return of Chucky”
January 10th, 2016 at 7:24 pm
Northend
All convincing arguments for sure. IF the Glazers offer this job to Chucky and he doesn’t take it, he’s never coming back to the NFL.
Chucky has already joked on the air early in the year that Lovie had what he and Dungy never found..a franchise QB and he joked that’s what got both he and TD fired.
One thing is certain. If it’s Chucky nobody will beotch about it and it probably the ONLY coaching hire that could actually sell tickets.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:24 pm
Trust me, from a UGA fan, Walsh is the worst, best kicker I’ve seen. Does good all year, fails in the clutch. Like the Bengals.
Back in the Outback Bowl when Kirk Freaking Cousins was quarterbacking Michigan State, he threw an INT in overtime and set the Dawgs up for an easy GW FG. Aaron Murray even keeled in between the hash marks on 2nd down to make it easy for him.
Of course Walsh missed it, and the Spartans won in 3OT.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:30 pm
Even if Koetter is the # 1 choice….it’s good that they go through the motions…due diligence….interview a few candidates….then hire Koetter…it will make it look as if he beat out the competition….better for him starting out that way than just a shoe-in.
Gruden is possible…..he is a workaholic like Winston…the two of them could get up at 3am each morning and look at film together.
Saban…..he’s likely not going anywhere….Alabama will always be a winner with their recruiting..and chicks.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:31 pm
Why would he comeback to the Bucs? He still piss at the Glazer.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:41 pm
Tom
Yeah he may be peoed at the Glazers but seeing his brother make the playoffs….it he has the “itch” at all there is NO better opening for him than the Bucs. Bygones will be bygones if Chucky wants to coach again. That’s the real question. He has a sweet gig without bloggers second guessing every decision makes. LOL
And so the Pack scores on 5 straight possessions for the first time this year. Imagine what might have happened if the Deadskins hadn’t “improved” their D with Mason Foster and the Hawk.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:42 pm
Why on Gods green money Earth would Gruden come back to coach the Bucs? I really think there is zero chance of that happening.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:43 pm
I think Gruden is a coach at heart….pissed wouldn’t be the reason….it would probably be money….he makes $6.5 million for a part-time job at ESPN….
Here is an article re Gruden/ESPN/Coaching
http://ftw.usatoday.com/2015/09/highest-paid-espn-jon-gruden-report-monday-night-football-jon-gruden-salary
January 10th, 2016 at 7:48 pm
Mike smith is a defensive coach. He will bring his defensive buddies along. He would probably like to work with a similar offense he has worked with, but he is a defensive guy. If it comes down to Koetter or Smith i would guess the offensive assistants would go with Koetter and the defensive assistants go with Mike. I guess it depends on how well respected either coach is in their assistants eyes.
If im an offensive coach, i follow my OC where ever he goes. Also Koetter could have his pick of the bucs assistants if he liked any of them.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:51 pm
TBBF
I think he’s past the money at this point. How long has he been making more than five million a year…more than a decade? He doesn’t need money.
Bucfan37 If like TBBF suggests Chucky views himself as a coach and feels he has more left in the tank…the Bucs simply make the best sense.
Of the two…Saban or Chucky…Saban has EVERY reason to stay put…Chucky only has perhaps some $$$ issues…or animosity with the Glazers…but it would not hurt his legacy…they can’t take away his Super Bowl and he’s not going into the HOF as a broadcasters…he’s no Pat Summeral.
And so for Saban…stay at Bama and perhaps become the greatest college coach ever! Come to the Bucs..and IF #3 stays healthy and the Bucs manage to win an SB..he’ll be one of five to do it..
For Chucky…if he came back to the Bucs and won a Super Bowl it would almost insure entry into the HOF. That’s tempting!
Of the two Chucky is the only one I see with proper motivation to be the next Bucs coach.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:52 pm
Chucky has the best job in the world. He is paid millions for a part time gig. He gets half of the year off, and does his football camps to fill that coaching itch. Why would he go from living the dream, to back into the pressure cooker and work 80 hrs a week year round. And all for a small raise. Yeah he isnt going anywhere. That MNF booth is nice and cozy.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:54 pm
Why would he go from living the dream, to back into the pressure cooker
Short answer Trubuc is ego. He may want to see his bust in Canton. The Bucs give him his best shot at the HOF.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:54 pm
Fire Lovie…
Whoops…..already done….but wanted to express myself after the fact.
January 10th, 2016 at 7:54 pm
So much for home field advantage….
January 10th, 2016 at 8:04 pm
Best case scenario. The bucs hire a new defensive HC, maybe someone off the seahawks or Broncos or patriots. (Someone with a great defense) and then retain koetter to be the OC and asst HC. It keeps koetter in the building to continue building up winston, and it gives us a fresh defense. Imo that is the best thing we could do. If we hire koetter or any other offensive coach we will have to hire some defensive asst to be a first time DC. Not optimal imo. So we hire an already known and good DC to be HC and keep koetter as OC.
January 10th, 2016 at 8:06 pm
Oh what a story……the Glazers admit making a mistake to Gruden….he forgives them….gives up a cushy media job to take over the Bucs…..takes them to multiple Superbowls……and the Bucs become “America’s Team with America’s Quarterback”
Wow!….Find the Joy!!!
January 10th, 2016 at 8:10 pm
LOL you guys…. Our next head coach will be Jon Gruden. Great story though
January 10th, 2016 at 8:11 pm
*will NOT
January 10th, 2016 at 8:11 pm
St pete. He could have had any HC job in the world. There are other openings that popped up, that were better than the bucs, and he didn’t bite. The Giants gig is known to be the best gig right now. Chucky would be happy to work with a 2 time SB champ Veteran QB. Not to mention he has a record of wanting veteran qbs, and never actually grooming a young qb.
Also if “ego” is the reason he comes back to coaching, it is also the reason he doesn’t come to tampa bay. Getting fired has a way of hitting someones ego. Although the redemption of having he guys who fired you come crawling back is a ego builder. So i guess it is kind of a wash.
January 10th, 2016 at 8:38 pm
I’ll repeat what I wrote Wednesday night when I heard Lovie was fired because after all the talk and looking into it I still believe it’s the best option.
Hire Mike Smith HC keep Koetter OC elevate Hardy or Cullen to DC.
January 10th, 2016 at 8:44 pm
Saban on Tuesday. You guys have said I’m crazy earlier this week, but now I see several people posting about Saban.
January 10th, 2016 at 9:02 pm
There’s going to be a stampede for Saban after the game tomorrow. If he wants back in the NFL, we have as good a chance as any team to land him because of Jameis and the offense. My guess is the questions will start on the podium if he wins. “Coach, you’ve won five national titles, what’s next?” If he acts annoyed and says it’s too early to talk about that, or words to that effect, then holy $&@$), Katy bar the door, it’s on. If he declares he’s staying then we likely turn our attention to Dirk and McDermott.
BTW – Th return of Chucky would be the best! But I think he’s the new John Madden.
Parcells? 😈
January 10th, 2016 at 9:04 pm
Stanglassman Says:
January 10th, 2016 at 8:38 pm
Hire Mike Smith HC keep Koetter OC elevate Hardy or Cullen to DC.
——————————————————————————————-Hell, we might as well hire Mike Smith, since we have half of Atlanta here in Tampa already, with Casey Phillips and Dirk Koetter.
Perhaps the Carolina Panthers will donate a couple of their Bi Sexual Cheerleaders to our cause ?
January 10th, 2016 at 9:07 pm
After reading some of these posts about Gruden, Saban et al I feel like I’m stuck in Fantasyland. Being a LONG time Bama fan, Saban’s ain’t going no-place as they say, and certainly not to the Bucs. As for Gruden, that ship sailed. I’m even doubting that Dirk Koetter will end up with the HC job here. Tend to think that the Glazer boys are terrified of blowing it yet again. I’m expecting a ‘safe’ hire once again … just like Lovie Smith was in Glazer-world.
January 10th, 2016 at 9:22 pm
I also attended Alabama and I’m a huge fan, but I wouldn’t want Saban here. He has been in the NFL already and he’s the classic example of a coach who gives his best at the collegiate level only.
January 10th, 2016 at 9:39 pm
Just like Pete Carrol Elle?
January 10th, 2016 at 9:47 pm
Pete Carroll became a head coach in the NFL first, then moved down to the NCAA, and then returned to the NFL. Saban, on the other hand, has been the HC of various NCAA programs, before testing himself in the NFL. It’s a slightly different road.
January 10th, 2016 at 9:57 pm
More like Nick Saban or Steve Spurrier, Mike Riley, Lou Hotlz, Butch Davis, Joe Paterino, Dennis Erickson, Frank Kush, Dick Macpherison, Rick Brooks. Then again Pete Carrol was a bust his 1st go around in the NFL so maybe 2nd time is the charm. I just don’t want him because he kinda a d1ck.
January 10th, 2016 at 10:10 pm
Comparing Carroll to Saban is nonsense, in my humble opinion. Carroll merely started his career at the collegiate level, as many coaches do. He spent ten years (TEN – that’s significant) in the NFL, occupying various roles, before he got the USC gig. He formed himself, as a coach, in the NFL, that’s the main point here. Saban, on the other hand, gained his knowledge and experience at the collegiate level. Correct me if I’m wrong, but the Dolphins job was his very first, in any capacity, at the professional level. So, in my book, their paths towards success has been quite different and I don’t believe you can use one or the other in comparison.
January 10th, 2016 at 11:16 pm
Noooooo. We do not need another Smith here as Head Coach. One failure is enough.
January 10th, 2016 at 11:19 pm
saban with Chip Kelly as offensive coordinator after all chip was in Alabama this week
January 10th, 2016 at 11:29 pm
Just watching the Bungles game last night reminded me why we need a coach that will get our players in line. Not another Mr Nice guy. I don’t know who is perfect to do it and get the defense right. But it must be done.
January 10th, 2016 at 11:51 pm
You are wrong Elle. Nick Saban was Bill Belichek’s Defensive Coordinator in Cleveland for 3 years before he ever got a head coaching gig at Michigan State. That’s why he got the job. He also served as DB coach under Jerry Glanville in Houston for 2 years. I think both of those stints under those particular coaches count as “real NFL experience”. I get it, it’s a pipe dream of mine. He’s the best coach out there any level. He was 2 games under .500 in Miami. What would he have been if the Dr. cleared Brees and he had him. He even said he’d probably still be in the NFL.
January 11th, 2016 at 12:00 am
I would be more than happy with Koetter as head coach
My fingers are crossed for Gruden but I dont think he would do it
Saban? No thanks, seriously, how hard can it be coaching Alabama? Do they even have to recruit over there? When has he had to struggle with talent issues?
The Bucs need either a seasoned head coach that can come in here and pick up where Lovie left off or hire some one from within the organization that already knows our strengths and weaknesses.
January 11th, 2016 at 12:03 am
I meant seasoned, NFL experienced coach.
I’m sure Saban is seasoned, but he hasn’t been around the NFL for a while, a lot has changed since he went back to college.
January 11th, 2016 at 12:13 am
“People say you can draft a player you want to draft,” Saban said. “You can draft a player that’s there when you pick. It might not be the player you need. It might not be the player that you want. You also have salary-cap issues. We had them here.”
Of course, all those limits didn’t keep Saban from signing Drew Brees instead of giving up a second-round pick for Daunte Culpepper. He screwed that up all by himself.
“You’ve got to have a quarterback,” Saban said. “We had a chance to get one here — sort of messed it up.
That’s interesting. Saban has spent a long time blaming Huizenga or the medical staff or the weather for his choice of Culpepper over Brees. At least now he’s including himself in the list of folks who messed up the decision.
Sort of, as he said.
January 11th, 2016 at 4:22 am
Uhhh, again, if we’re talking defense…the NO, they won’t have any of the same assistants in mind.
Mike Smith is a big 3-4 proponent, while Tampa has been acquiring d-linemen, linebackers, and defensive backs that are best matched with a 4-3/zone coverage defense. A move like that (conversion to a 3-4 alignment of the front 7, and a man-coverage scheme) – in Tampa – would set us back so far it would likely be unrecoverable. You’d strip the team of talent capable of playing well in a 3-4 which would mean regardless of how many points you score, you wouldn’t be able to stop any opposing offenses. This would lose your coach -as many of you would be screaming for his head – inside of two years
You’d lose the high draft picks spent on GMAC, David, and Kwon – you’d lose a lot of games because no one can draft 11 new defensive players, your DB’s wouldn’t be able to play man-cover – then you’d lose your coach (which as we’ve seen FIRST HAND since 2009, sometimes you can go 9 years before correcting a mistake that large.
But, what’s worse: since you need completely different TYPES of players with completely different skill-sets – even though the positions don’t change, they DO NOT play their positions the same way. So after two years of MORE fiasco – we’d be something of a hybrid on defense – stuck using guys that you have to make do with – until you can get the guys you want/need at ALL the defensive skill positions.
So, no. We won’t be competing for the same type of assistants as Mike Smith. Mostly ‘cuz we don’t need the same type of players.