Which Former Bear Would You Most Want to Be the Next Head Coach?
by Sam Householder on Aug 30, 2010 3:30 PM CDT
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PrintSo this is something I have been thinking about for quite some time now and with the dismal preseason I noticed a lot of people calling for a new head coach. While that may not be a bad idea, I doubt it will happen because with a lockout looming next year I don't think many teams are going to fire their head coaches or hire new guys come this offseason. However, it's still nice to dream and with a plethora of former Bears as highly regarded assistants around the league it seems like a good time to throw this question out there for fun.
First up there's Leslie Frazier. Frazier played his entire career for the Bears from 1981-85. His career ended in Super Bowl XX with a knee injury. His coaching career started soon after when he became head coach at Trinity College (IL) in 1988. He was there until 1996 when he left to become DB coach at U of I. In '99 he moved to the NFL ranks as the Eagles DB coach, then moved up to the Bengals Defensive Coordinator position in '03 and '04. Then he was the DB coach for the Colts in '05 and '06 winning a Super Bowl. With the Colts he also held the title "Special Assistant to the Head Coach." After the Super Bowl he moved to his current position with the Vikings as Defensive Coordinator to replace the departing Mike Tomlin. Frazier has interviewed for 7 head coaching positions but has yet to receive an offer. However, the Vikings would probably almost never let him go to the Bears as long as he has a contract with them.
Next is Ron Rivera. Ron played 8 seasons with the Bears from 1984-1992 (His whole career). His coaching career began with the Bears in 1997 as a defensive quality coach. From 1999-2003 he served as the linebackers coach for the Eagles (I'm sensing a pattern here). In 2004 he became the defensive coordinator for the Bears. As we should all know, the defense was then an unstoppable force for most of his tenure. Following Super Bowl XLI he was let go and he went to his current team, the San Diego Chargers as a linebackers coach. He was promoted to defensive coordinator midway through the 2008 season. Rivera has been interviewed for at least 3 jobs but Wikipedia says there were "several others." Rivera implemented a 4-3 scheme with the Bears but is now versed in 3-4 with the Chargers. His hybrid scheme is quite good.
The next possible coach could be Mike Singletary. Do I even need to write about his accomplishments? There is also a reason I put "possible" and "could be." Singletary is the head coach of the 49ers and he has them headed in the right direction. The team probably wouldn't let him leave unless we gave up a draft pick (a la the Bucs to the Raiders for Gruden). He is signed through 2011. He played his whole career with the Bears from 1981-1992. He became the linebackers coach for the Ravens in 2003 which started his coaching career. Before that, however, a group of Baylor alum tried to get him hired as the Baylor (his alma mater) head coach in 2002. In 2004 he moved to the 49ers where he served as Mike Nolan's assistant head coach and linebackers coach. Following Nolan's dismissal he became interim coach and was then offered the position fully following the season. He had interviewed for two head coaching jobs in 2007 but was passed over and was again a candidate for Baylor's vacancy but declined that job to stay with the 49ers (perhaps knowing he could get a crack at the head coaching job with Nolan on the hot seat).
Lastly, there's Doug Plank. Plank played his entire NFL career with the Bears from 1975-1982. He played one season with the Chicago Blitz in the short-lived USFL in 1983. He went into coaching in 2001 as a defensive coordinator for the Arena League's Arizona Rattler's. He was hired by Arthur Blank to be the head coach of the Georgia Force of the AFL in 2005. He won two AFL coach of the year awards and led the Force to an Arena Bowl appearance. In 2008 he was a seasonal assistant with the Falcons and last year was an assistant DB coach with the Jets but was let go following the season. He is obviously the least experienced candidate I have listed.
If there is anyone else I am forgetting about then list him below. I doubt Ditka is coming back to the sidelines any time soon though, which is why I left him off the list and I doubt the McCaskey's would want him back considering how their relationship ended last time...
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Leslie Frasier
However, the Vikings would probably almost never let him go to the Bears as long as he has a contract with them.
As long as the job he is interviewing for is a promotion from his current position, the Vikings can’t do squat to stop him from going to ANY team. He interviewed for the Lions head coaching job about a week after Jim Schwartz interviewed a couple of offseasons ago
In life, a man is either the hammer or the anvil. Ndamukong Suh is both
Pride of Detroits village idiot
Good point
Forgot about that rule. I guess I was thinking of when the Packers blocked that guy from talking to us, but that was a lateral position move IIRC, QB Coach for QB Coach or something like that…
"I was interviewing George Halas and I asked him who is the greatest running back you ever saw. And he said, 'That would be Red Grange.' And I asked him if Grange was playing today, how many yards do you think he'd gain. And he said, 'About 750, maybe 800 yards.' And I said, 'Well, 800 yards is just okay.' He sat up in his chair and he said, 'Son, you must remember one thing. Red Grange is 75 years old.' - Chris Berman
by Sam Householder on Aug 30, 2010 4:47 PM CDT up reply actions
Jeff Fisher
Really like him as a coach. Plus he has a moustache as well!
Ah Yes I like him too
He’d work well too, I forgot about him…I don’t know how though because I like him a lot as a coach and would gladly take him. I guess it was because I figure like Singletary, he’d be hard to get away from Tennessee.
"I was interviewing George Halas and I asked him who is the greatest running back you ever saw. And he said, 'That would be Red Grange.' And I asked him if Grange was playing today, how many yards do you think he'd gain. And he said, 'About 750, maybe 800 yards.' And I said, 'Well, 800 yards is just okay.' He sat up in his chair and he said, 'Son, you must remember one thing. Red Grange is 75 years old.' - Chris Berman
by Sam Householder on Aug 30, 2010 4:46 PM CDT up reply actions
Is Fisher
a former Bear?
"A lot of fans were drawn to me because they knew that whatever the score was, I was going to run as hard as I could on every play. You don't have that now, you have guys waiting for next week or even next year." - Walter Payton
Editor/Writer for WindyCityGridiron.com
by Ashley Czuba on Aug 30, 2010 5:54 PM CDT up reply actions
I didn't know that.
Hmm. Cool. I really liked him anyway, but that makes it even better. Haha
"A lot of fans were drawn to me because they knew that whatever the score was, I was going to run as hard as I could on every play. You don't have that now, you have guys waiting for next week or even next year." - Walter Payton
Editor/Writer for WindyCityGridiron.com
by Ashley Czuba on Aug 30, 2010 6:50 PM CDT up reply actions
Lovie heard about that and decided they should've made
Fisher a WR or OL.
David Taylor's personal hype man. Check out his website unless you're a loser. http://www.cheekymonkeyart.com/
by Ditkavsworld on Aug 31, 2010 10:40 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
I’d always been led to believe it was named for Doug Plank’s number?
"44 years of football history and nothing to show for it. I wish I wasn’t banned at the Norseman.." - tfrabotta
"Fellas, what are they, unblockable? Is that the '85 Bears over there?" - overheard at Giants' '06 training camp
~~~ Check my profile for links for SB20 and America's Game: '85 Bears ~~~
Good call,
Jeff Fisher would be a great coach for us. I thought I read last year that he and the Titans were contemplating going in different directions. Something about Fisher and ownership not being of the same mind over their QB situation, I think.
Singletary is my favorite pick, I would hate to see him get screwed dealing with Bears management though.
Sean Payton, not that I think he is leaving the Saints anytime soon, was also a Bear and would make a great coach for us.
I agree across the board with your comment... Sean Payton completely slipped my mind!
I think your right about the Fisher/Titan ownership situation.
He was a subistute Bear in the strike season
And we wont let him go anyway
Your best bet would be Fisher he is one of the best coaches in the NFL
I like singultary but i doubt he’s going to leave the 49er’s just when he is getting that team going Fisher is a different story he didn’t like Bud Adams telling him to play Vince Young
But i’m not to sure the Bears front office woul;dn’t poke their nose in his coaching buisness either so that may be a problem
World Champions at last
by mississippisaintsfan on Sep 5, 2010 10:48 AM CDT up reply actions
Yes.
-------
Stupid babies need the most attention!
by David Taylor on Aug 31, 2010 7:37 PM CDT up reply actions
I have nothing against Leslie Frazier but
he seems to have a personality similar to Lovie’s. I know it’s unfair but I can’t stand another few years of blah personality coaching (Lovie and Jauron back to back was more than enough).
I'm stuck between Rivera and Singletary.
We know Rivera’s ability with the Bears, which is great, but we also know Singletary’s head coaching ability. It’s hard for me to pick between the two. Emotionally I want to pick Singletary, but mentally I lean towards Rivera… hmm….
Either way, great write-up!
"A lot of fans were drawn to me because they knew that whatever the score was, I was going to run as hard as I could on every play. You don't have that now, you have guys waiting for next week or even next year." - Walter Payton
Editor/Writer for WindyCityGridiron.com
Thanks!
It’s definitely tough between Rivera and Singletary. Those two also seem like they have the best personalities to click with the franchise.
"I was interviewing George Halas and I asked him who is the greatest running back you ever saw. And he said, 'That would be Red Grange.' And I asked him if Grange was playing today, how many yards do you think he'd gain. And he said, 'About 750, maybe 800 yards.' And I said, 'Well, 800 yards is just okay.' He sat up in his chair and he said, 'Son, you must remember one thing. Red Grange is 75 years old.' - Chris Berman
by Sam Householder on Aug 30, 2010 4:55 PM CDT up reply actions
Not so tough for me.......
Rivera has proven success as a DC. He led the best Bears defenses since Buddy Ryan……..wait………Buddy Ryan sucked as a HC……..maybe it’s a bit closer than I initially thought……..
Honestly, I’d take either one. Hell, I’d take just about anyone over Smith, but given recent history and the FOs previous double mistake with him already, we’ll probably get Ron “The Douche” Turner as our next HC……….ugh..
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 30, 2010 7:29 PM CDT up reply actions
I voted for Singleterry
…because the poll said who we’d most “like” to see, but realistically, I don’t think Mike is going to be on the market anytime soon, so I’d love to have Ron.
"What I’m trying to say is that Lovie is an idiot. Let’s not forget this." --celerysalt, WCG commenter
I guess I never put in my two cents
I want Rivera. He has the resume and a ton of experience with a lot of different coaches and a diverse defensive scheme that keeps an element of surprise. The players STILL talk about him in such high regards which tells me that they’d respond to him and rally around him and welcome in right away. He also has some personality.
"I was interviewing George Halas and I asked him who is the greatest running back you ever saw. And he said, 'That would be Red Grange.' And I asked him if Grange was playing today, how many yards do you think he'd gain. And he said, 'About 750, maybe 800 yards.' And I said, 'Well, 800 yards is just okay.' He sat up in his chair and he said, 'Son, you must remember one thing. Red Grange is 75 years old.' - Chris Berman
by Sam Householder on Aug 30, 2010 4:51 PM CDT reply actions
Rivera is my first choice as well......
Followed by Singletary. I honestly think he will make a great HC. The question is whether or not a FO that hired Ron “The Douche” Turner twice will actually recognize his value………they didn’t in ‘07, when they fired the wrong Ron………(of course that had more to do with his anus being the wrong size for Lovie’s hand, but still………)
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 30, 2010 7:37 PM CDT up reply actions
Awesome post GG, I rec'd it.
First off let me state that I’m a fan of Lovie’s. I think he’s a decent HC and a great man. It’s about to that point that he needs to be let go though.
Numero uno for former Bears I’d want as our HC would have to be Singletary for me. As you pointed out he is in San Fran, but I’d give up a pick in a heartbeat to have him resurrect the disciplined, no nonsense, intimidating team that we as Bears fans deserve.
Number two would be Rivera. According to NFL.com his defenses from ‘04-’06 ranked as followed: ’04- 21st ypg/13th ppg; ’05- 2nd ypg/1st ppg; ’06- 5th ypg/3rd ppg. He knows defense, and his defenses with us were physical and pretty awesome.
Fisher is a proven HC in the league and has been fairly successful. Frazier I don’t know too much about as far as coaching goes, and Plank is too inexperienced IMO.
WILDCARD BITCHES!!! YEEEEHHHAAAAA!!!!!
Thanks
I agree with your rankings. My friend said the other day that he would gladly give up a first round pick for Singletary and I tend to agree with him. The guy is definitely a good coach. I am still mad I forgot to mention Fisher and he too is another guy who I would want and may even be willing to give up a pick for. He is experienced for sure. I only mentioned Plank because I knew he was an assistant but yeah he is way too inexperienced. Although he at least has been a head coach before unlike Rivera…haha.
"I was interviewing George Halas and I asked him who is the greatest running back you ever saw. And he said, 'That would be Red Grange.' And I asked him if Grange was playing today, how many yards do you think he'd gain. And he said, 'About 750, maybe 800 yards.' And I said, 'Well, 800 yards is just okay.' He sat up in his chair and he said, 'Son, you must remember one thing. Red Grange is 75 years old.' - Chris Berman
by Sam Householder on Aug 30, 2010 4:59 PM CDT up reply actions
I could be wrong, but I don't think you're allowed to trade picks for coaches anymore.
I think they changed the rules after the Raiders sent Gruden to Tampa. I’m trying to find info on it, but I’m finding conflicting reports. Oddly enough, the one place I can’t find info is on NFL.com
"The time has come to get deeply into Football. It is the only thing we have left that ain't fixed." - HST
That's not odd at all.
I always have a ridiculous amount of difficulty finding anything other than stats at nfl.com.
If I did what I love for a living, what would I do in my free time?
Writer at windycitygridiron.com {-/-} http://www.twitter.com/kdoggers
Their site is always slow as hell too.
Takes forever to get through pages.
"The time has come to get deeply into Football. It is the only thing we have left that ain't fixed." - HST
I'm don't necessarily disagree with you on Doug Plank, but remember
Da Coach’s only experience before coming here was as a Special Teams coach for the Cowboys. A lot of people thought Halas was crazy for picking him because of his lack of experience. Bud Grant, former “supposedly” great coach of the Vikings who is still waiting for his first Super Bowl trophy, said something to the effect of “it’s not what you know, apparently it’s who you know” when Ditka got the job. Another great call by a member of the Vikings management team!
I wouldn't be against that
I just don’t know of any former Bears who are offensive coaches currently…Todd Haley is the closest but he never played here, only coached.
"I was interviewing George Halas and I asked him who is the greatest running back you ever saw. And he said, 'That would be Red Grange.' And I asked him if Grange was playing today, how many yards do you think he'd gain. And he said, 'About 750, maybe 800 yards.' And I said, 'Well, 800 yards is just okay.' He sat up in his chair and he said, 'Son, you must remember one thing. Red Grange is 75 years old.' - Chris Berman
by Sam Householder on Aug 30, 2010 4:54 PM CDT up reply actions
Right...
but the name of the post is “Which Former Bear…” but I see your point…
"A lot of fans were drawn to me because they knew that whatever the score was, I was going to run as hard as I could on every play. You don't have that now, you have guys waiting for next week or even next year." - Walter Payton
Editor/Writer for WindyCityGridiron.com
by Ashley Czuba on Aug 30, 2010 6:51 PM CDT up reply actions
Jim McMahon
Just think, everyone could wear headbands and they would definitely have attitude. Just kidding but nice post.
by TheMan1 on Aug 30, 2010 6:57 PM CDT via mobile up reply actions
Would you hire someone who had been a part of a Bears "Offense" to coach your team?
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 30, 2010 7:44 PM CDT up reply actions
But Sean Payton.......
is, of course the exception. He was a practice squad member of the Bears…….
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 30, 2010 7:46 PM CDT up reply actions
He played QB
For the Bears as a scab player during the strike of 1987
He’s the guy I would love to see coaching the Bears.
In the 8th grade Mike Ditka won his school's Science Fair with a model of a working volcano. There were 17 other working volcano's made that day, but only one named Mount Ditka.
by Lester A. Wiltfong Jr. on Aug 31, 2010 9:43 AM CDT up reply actions
Take 3 steps back
And keep away from our coach
Besides if he ever became availible no one would out bid Jerry Jones for him
He was the asst. head coach for the Cowboys and Jones saiys the biggest mistake he has ever made as an owner was to let him go
Thats why he’s calling Jason Garret his head coach in waiting and paying him like a head coach
World Champions at last
by mississippisaintsfan on Sep 5, 2010 10:55 AM CDT up reply actions
I voted other
My candidate Mike Ditka.
Ok everyone gasp now.
David Taylor's personal hype man. Check out his website unless you're a loser. http://www.cheekymonkeyart.com/
I voted other
for the same Michael Keller Ditka
2nd choicee= Henry Burris
by Bear Lovin 21 on Aug 30, 2010 7:27 PM CDT up reply actions
I do not want to see...
Henry Burris, Craig Krenzel or Jonathan Quinn mentioned on this page or site again unless the phrase associated with them is “Do Not Want”.
by Steven Schweickert on Aug 31, 2010 10:23 AM CDT up reply actions
or......
sucks….
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Sep 1, 2010 9:15 AM CDT up reply actions
I want the guy, THAT WANTS WINNERS!!!
"Boozer's dumbass dunked, so i dunked on his dumbass"- Joakim Noah
I would prefer Coach Singletary but
realistically the Niners will probably be decent this year and he has helped turn that team around so Rivera would be best. It’s a raise for him and he has the ability to make this team play with an attitude that has been sorely missing during the Lovie era. So in a dream world, Singeltary, in the real world Rivera. I’m ecstatic for either or.
And yes I concur great write up
I like Frasier...
but I’d take Craig Krenzel if it meant ridding us of Lovie. Frazier seems like the smart choice. Rivera would be a fine choice as well and certainly the most vocal. Honestly, I think Lovie has demonstrated an utter lack of competence. Maybe he can get a fresh start somewhere else. NEXT!!!!!!
IT'S NOT TOO LATE TO FIRE LOVIE!
Lovie can start his own expansion team in candy-dandy land
and go reward his players with gumdrops and tootsie-rolls.
by GriggsBriggs on Aug 30, 2010 8:07 PM CDT up reply actions
Sean Payton.......
was a practice squad member that filled in for the Bears during the ‘87 strike. I’ll take him (especially if he brings Gregg Williams with him).
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 30, 2010 7:48 PM CDT reply actions
I know....
Wishful thinking. But hten, so are the rest on this list, I’m sure. We’ll probably end up with Ron Turner as our next head coach………
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 30, 2010 8:02 PM CDT up reply actions
yes, sir.....
Thank you for correcting that………
We’ll probably end up with Ron “the Douche” Turner as our next head coach………….
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 31, 2010 6:24 AM CDT up reply actions
Personally, Rivera or Singletary
If we have to take a former Bears player. Otherwise, I’m in favor of Bill Cowher. We need to establish a 3-4 D, and Cowher could bring that.
Chicago Jazz > Three Am-Egos
by chicago030 on Aug 30, 2010 8:55 PM CDT via mobile reply actions
Why do we need to establish ...
…… a 3-4 defense ??? No what we need , if we switch coaches , is a coach that can use the current talent in place . That coach would be Frazier . Hes runs a version of the Tampa Two that is very effective . Or Singletary who know how to run defense’s period . A switch to the gimmick defense know as the 3-4 would require a complete overhaul of our current defense and would likley take a few season to establish the talent needed to run it with any effectiveness , thus killing any chance of the older players on the roster ever getting close to the big game . And with so many teams switching to the 3-4 it’d be a tough task to get the talent .
So really why switch to a 3-4 ??? The only other coach I’d want to see running this team is Jeff Fisher . He knows how to run both sides of the ball and his teams always are soild in the trenches .
" Everyone has a plan 'till they get punched in the mouth. " ~
Mike Tyson
by MidWayMonster54 on Aug 30, 2010 9:25 PM CDT up reply actions
Rivera has run......
This defense with the personnel types in place with incredible success, producing the best defenses this team has seen since the 80’s. I’d take him first…………….
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 30, 2010 9:29 PM CDT up reply actions
And I agree completely about the 3-4 defense........
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 30, 2010 9:30 PM CDT up reply actions
I agree with
your point about Frazier. He could definitely get the most out of our current personnel. I think if you look at his talent in Minnesota, he has incredible d-line but the secondary isn’t spectacular, don’t get me wrong they have a few good guys and a better than average LB corps but their secondary isn’t shutdown type talent and he gets a lot from that group.
"I was interviewing George Halas and I asked him who is the greatest running back you ever saw. And he said, 'That would be Red Grange.' And I asked him if Grange was playing today, how many yards do you think he'd gain. And he said, 'About 750, maybe 800 yards.' And I said, 'Well, 800 yards is just okay.' He sat up in his chair and he said, 'Son, you must remember one thing. Red Grange is 75 years old.' - Chris Berman
by Sam Householder on Aug 30, 2010 11:07 PM CDT up reply actions
Oh yea .......
…. nice post Ghost , Rec’d !!
" Everyone has a plan 'till they get punched in the mouth. " ~
Mike Tyson
by MidWayMonster54 on Aug 30, 2010 11:46 PM CDT up reply actions
Exactly. In other words, the Tampa Two doesn't suck. OUR Tampa Two sucks.
Or if you’d prefer, Lovie Smith sucks. I say we go after Ron Rivera. Maybe he could manage to snag Monte Kiffin away from his jerk-off son to come install a version that actually works.
"The time has come to get deeply into Football. It is the only thing we have left that ain't fixed." - HST
by JerBear50 on Aug 31, 2010 2:24 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
"Or id you'd prefer, Lovie Smith sucks."
This is gold………rec’d
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 31, 2010 6:25 AM CDT up reply actions
Fantastic Post, BTW.
Fine work, GG.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Aug 30, 2010 9:30 PM CDT reply actions
For me it comes down to Rivera or Singletary
and the slight edge goes to Rivera only because we need all our draft picks. After only having what was it 5 picks last year?! I really dont want to give any more picks away. Our team is getting old fast and we need to start grooming replacements and thats not even considering the positions of need we already have.
Even though he was only indirectly a Bear
I’d seriously consider Rob Ryan, Buddy’s other son. His defenses are always pretty good and very aggressive which, let’s face it, is what Chicago Bear football is supposed to be. Also, he was the coach who was in Jay’s face last year on the sideline but Jay loves him and has nothing but respect for him.
We would definitely go back to a team that has a chip on our shoulders and rightfully re-claim the title “Monsters of the Midway”, which is a more fitting name than what we’re currently going for “Pu$$ies of the Plains”!
Why does being an ex-Bear matter?
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
As TheMan said it doesn't
However, the two most successful coaches in the Bears history were ex-players, Halas and Ditka. Yeah I know, that’s a real stretch to make that important though because other ex-players have had bad careers coaching the Bears (Driscoll, Dooley, Gibron).
"I was interviewing George Halas and I asked him who is the greatest running back you ever saw. And he said, 'That would be Red Grange.' And I asked him if Grange was playing today, how many yards do you think he'd gain. And he said, 'About 750, maybe 800 yards.' And I said, 'Well, 800 yards is just okay.' He sat up in his chair and he said, 'Son, you must remember one thing. Red Grange is 75 years old.' - Chris Berman
by Sam Householder on Aug 31, 2010 11:11 AM CDT up reply actions
It doesn't. It just gives us something to talk about.
And it gives the kool-aid drinkers yet another non-logical reason to be optimistic. For further clarification, see Sandberg, Ryne.
"The time has come to get deeply into Football. It is the only thing we have left that ain't fixed." - HST
So what's the knock on Rivera?
If he has been interviewed for “several” HC spots and no one has pulled the trigger with him, what is he missing? He was a great DC for us but that doesn’t translate in HC material obviously.
Just curious what some thoughts are on what might be holding him back.
I thought I had read somewhere several months ago, that he doesn't come off as
politically correct in the interviews as some people would like to see. I took that to mean that he basically tells them what he thinks rather than b.s. with what they want to hear. That could be interpreted as stubborn, arrogant, inflexible, or all of the above which doesn’t usually work out well in an interview for any job.
Personally, if that is the case, I kind of like it.
If Rex Ryan can get a HC job, the sky is the limit for Chico.
David Taylor's personal hype man. Check out his website unless you're a loser. http://www.cheekymonkeyart.com/
by Ditkavsworld on Aug 31, 2010 9:37 AM CDT up reply actions
You may be right, the NFL is a copycat league...
if Rex can have another successful year, we might see more passionate, loud, aggressive styles coming in the HC ranks and begin to see the Tony Dungy types start to fade away.
Rivera's Interviews
Looks like he interviewed a lot: (Links pop)
2007 – Cardinals, Falcons, Dolphins, , Pittsburg, and Dallas
2009 – Detroit
(That’s just what I found searching for about 3 minutes.)
Plus I believe he interviewed for the Chargers spot. Someone will give him a shot eventually but interesting why as so many have passed.
I'm willing to be that most of those teams he interviewed for
had a guy in mind when they interviewed him. I don’t want to say that the only reason he got the interviews was because he was a minority though as I think his credentials should warrant an interview regardless of race. I think he will eventually pull down a HC gig in the next few years.
David Taylor's personal hype man. Check out his website unless you're a loser. http://www.cheekymonkeyart.com/
by Ditkavsworld on Aug 31, 2010 10:57 AM CDT up reply actions
Maybe because
his defenses in San Diego haven’t been impressive at all. That’s with a plethora of talent everyone says AJ Smith has built up.
"In order to have a winner, the team must have a feeling of unity; every player must put the team first- ahead of personal glory" - motivational sign at Halas Hall.
Let's not forget to note......
in all fairness, that Rivera is not running “his” defense, but the 3-4 defense that Smith has built the personnel around. Rivera is a 4-3 guy coordinating a 3-4 defense.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Sep 1, 2010 9:13 AM CDT up reply actions
I'd say he's now capable
of running both alignments perfectly well based on his experience (4 years+).
"In order to have a winner, the team must have a feeling of unity; every player must put the team first- ahead of personal glory" - motivational sign at Halas Hall.
Football Outsiders Almanac Says...
“To understand how overrated the San Diego pass rush is, you have to look past sacks and check out hits and hurries. After two straight years ranking 31st in hurries per pass play, the 2009 Chargers improved … to 30th. They also ranked dead last with only 26 quarterback hits.”
Remember this fan post from Gesia Kob?
http://www.windycitygridiron.com/2010/1/30/1284830/is-ron-rivera-the-next-bears-head
It cites an interview where Ron Rivera strongly hinted that he really wants to come back and be head coach of Chicago. So it’s possible that the only thing stopping Rivera from being HC somewhere else is that he’s trying to wait out Lovie.
That, if true, would be outfreakingstanding.
"What I’m trying to say is that Lovie is an idiot. Let’s not forget this." --celerysalt, WCG commenter
That'd be an awfully ballsy move on his part
To not go other places because he’s waiting out a HC that let him go, and a management team who fully backed his plans, to then maybe get a chance of the job?
If I did what I love for a living, what would I do in my free time?
Writer at windycitygridiron.com {-/-} http://www.twitter.com/kdoggers
That's because...
he’s a BEAR!!! No better place to coach, live and eat! Weather is great too, and no I’m not being sarcastic.
lost in DC...
If Rivera did get the job after Lovie was fired, canned; what have you.
It would be a huge bunch in the face to Lovie and JA. Since the bears org. just let Rivera just walk.
Butthead
I have no real reason besides him being a tough kicker.
"In order to have a winner, the team must have a feeling of unity; every player must put the team first- ahead of personal glory" - motivational sign at Halas Hall.
Who's that, never heard of him.
David Taylor's personal hype man. Check out his website unless you're a loser. http://www.cheekymonkeyart.com/
and never want to again......
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Sep 1, 2010 9:24 AM CDT up reply actions
Singletary
What can I say? He’s a winner as a Head Coach and he was an unbelievable player. I am completely confident he would be a winner as Head Coach of the Chicago Bears.
I also believe Singletary would embrace the tradition like none other, or maybe just like the way Ditka did.
Btw, Mike Brown as Secondary’s Coach.
But would be absolutely stoked to have Fisher, S. Payton or Rivera.
I like the Mike Brown for .......
secondary coach idea. I actually proposed this idea a few years ago on a now defunct site that will go unnamed but was organized with the aim of proposing the removal of certain general manager. He was a leader, and knows how to run the position. If he can coach as well as he played before he got all screwed up, the bears would have a great secondary. Assuming he didn’t miss training camp with an Achilles injury……….
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Sep 1, 2010 9:23 AM CDT up reply actions
BUDDY RYAN OFFSPRINGS
i know rex and rob arnt ex players but ok rex is tied down but rob might not be. both kids grew up BEARS I VOTED other and like a lot of people and fans would like singletary but i think rob ryan would be tailer made for the bears ( i did not know about frazier till i read this post and i am deliberating over this
Next head coach
I voted in the poll for Samurai, but I don’t think SF will let him go, same thing w/Fisher. My 2nd choice would be Ron Rivera, he did a fantastic job w/ the D. If we can’t get an ex-Bear, my choice is Jon Gruden out of the MNF booth. He seems to have the right attitude and I think he’d really help Jay out alot.
I thought I’d heard somewhere that Singletary had a get-out clause in his contract with SF in the event that the Bears offered him the HC gig? It may just have been wishful thinking on my part.
"44 years of football history and nothing to show for it. I wish I wasn’t banned at the Norseman.." - tfrabotta
"Fellas, what are they, unblockable? Is that the '85 Bears over there?" - overheard at Giants' '06 training camp
~~~ Check my profile for links for SB20 and America's Game: '85 Bears ~~~
I thought I heard...
Singletary interviewed during the Jauron era for DC but Jauron didn’t want his replacement waiting in the wings so he killed the deal. I might be wrong though.
lost in DC...
Ahhh I forgot entirely about him!
And nice thinking, you’re the first to mention him. He certainly would be an interesting candidate, but I always worry about coaches jumping up to the pro ranks from college, sometimes it works, other times not at all.
"I was interviewing George Halas and I asked him who is the greatest running back you ever saw. And he said, 'That would be Red Grange.' And I asked him if Grange was playing today, how many yards do you think he'd gain. And he said, 'About 750, maybe 800 yards.' And I said, 'Well, 800 yards is just okay.' He sat up in his chair and he said, 'Son, you must remember one thing. Red Grange is 75 years old.' - Chris Berman
by Sam Householder on Aug 31, 2010 9:44 PM CDT up reply actions
Any coach that tells Pete Carroll "What's YOUR deal?" after blowing him out
gets automatic aces in my book, Bear or not.
by Steven Schweickert on Sep 1, 2010 8:17 AM CDT up reply actions
Only if he bring the Stanford band with him.
David Taylor's personal hype man. Check out his website unless you're a loser. http://www.cheekymonkeyart.com/
by Ditkavsworld on Sep 1, 2010 8:47 AM CDT up reply actions 1 recs
and the Stanford cheerleaders......
I miss the Honey Bears :(
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Sep 1, 2010 9:19 AM CDT up reply actions
Haha.
You know me so well…
"A lot of fans were drawn to me because they knew that whatever the score was, I was going to run as hard as I could on every play. You don't have that now, you have guys waiting for next week or even next year." - Walter Payton
Editor/Writer for WindyCityGridiron.com
The LSJUMB's best days are behind it
nowhere near as outrageous as in the 70s and 80s, sort of a PG-13 version nowdays.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Sep 3, 2010 8:18 AM CDT up reply actions
I get this feeling that
the next HC will most likely be Rivera as some type of bizarre “Were sorry we fired you. You were right we were wrong”….
Personally would love to see Fisher myself since he is always in some sort of minor battle with the owner every year. IIRC its like every year Fisher is on the hot seat there…..Well according to various football experts…..
Getting to know Mike Martz offense with this offensive line? It’s just hours of pure boredom interrupted by moments of unbelievable horror.
- Jay Cutler
Little known Sean Peyton
Replacement player 1987……………..
"Most important thought, if you love someone, tell him or her, for you never know what tomorrow may have in store." ~ The Great Walter J. Payton.
Next HC
Sean Payton would be great…don’t see NO letting him go though. As far as the next coach, what I posted above about Jon Gruden becoming the next coach, I’ll take a step further….Jimmy Johnson for team president & new GM. He’d get winners in here too. I don’t have the exact numbers, but I think he let 80-90 % of the guys go from the original roster in Dallas when he won the Super Bowl. I know it’s a longshot, but I’m thinking big here. If the Hawks can hire Scotty Bowman……why not???
He won't find anyone dumb enough to make a "Hershel Walker" type trade though.
If you’re going to dream (like the Hawks with Scotty Bowman), then let’s do right and get Bill Polian here to run things.
Mike Singletary as HC and Rivera as DC.
We still need a former Bear to head up the offense…any suggestions? Plus, I would vote Ditka anyday to come back as our HC!!
Walter Payton lives on!!!
you guys overrate Tivera... & cuz he was part of 85
Lovie didn’t wack him for his guy Bob B. he did so because from the midpoint of the season on, his defense went downward and they never got it done in the “big game”. Same has held true for his defenses since he left. Mike S. or Jeff F. are my guys.
Mike S has a job and will not be available.....
And this↓:
Lovie didn’t wack him for his guy Bob B. he did so because from the midpoint of the season on, his defense went downward and they never got it done in the "big game"
is ridiculous. Why wasn’t Turner let go of after the atrocious SB performance?, then? Seriously. Who performed worse and which side of the ball saw the bigger decline? Rivera lost Tommie Harris and Mike Brown, two of the three most important pieces of the cover who. Who did Turner lose? Rivera’s D finished 3rd in points allowed and 5th in yardage allowed and 1st in turnovers forced in ‘06. How did the next year go, jay? or the year after that, or the one following that? And as to his time in SD, he’s learning the 3-4 system, which is cool, but not his game. He was a 4-3 guy in Philly and in Chicago. And even then, his defense has been ranked higher than Chicago’s (15th in ‘08 and 11th in ’09) while he’s coaching a system he had to learn on the fly.
and this↓:
you guys overrate Tivera… & cuz he was part of 85
followed by this↓:
Mike S. or Jeff F. are my guys.
is just plain funny. You do realize that Singletary was the keystone to the 85 defense? And even Fisher had a role in the ’85 team as Buddy Ryans defensive assistant after Bill Cowher (who was playing for the Iggles Prior to coaching the Steelers) jacked up his ankle on a kick return. He even has one of those nifty rings from the 85 season……..
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Sep 3, 2010 9:17 AM CDT up reply actions
Don't know if someone said this already because I didn't feel like reading through the comments...
Don’t know how far Singletary will get the Niners this year but I have so much respect for him how he handled Vernon Davis that year.
United we stand and united we'll fall......down on our knees the day we win it all!
How about Jim Harbaugh?
When will be make the jump to the NFL? He did interview for the Jets HC job a year ago.
Much rather give him a Coordinator role to start
Many big flops come from going straight HC college to HC pros.
Fischer would be my choice
Singletary would be fun as well for a while, but given the players that the likely GM will have given him, he’ll die of a heart attack after the Bears give up 35 in the first quarter some week. And I like Mike and don’t want him to die young.
Fischer has a long track record, and it’s a good one.
It's a simple question, Doctor: would you eat the moon if it were made of ribs??
Agreed
if the Bears were lucky enough to have a choice between Singletary and Fisher, they would be fools to take Singletary.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Sep 4, 2010 10:26 AM CDT up reply actions
I disagree, but only slightly.......
I think Fisher would be an ok choice, but I wouldn’t say the Bears would be fools to take Singletary over him. He does have a winning record (.553), and he has a 136 and 110 record, which is also decent, but not spectacular. He’s won all of 4 division titles in his 16 years as the coach of the Oilers/Titans, but he’s also only finished last in his division twice. He only has 6 seasons with a record above .500 in 16 years, but he only has 5 season with a record below 500. Fisher wouldn’t be a bad choice. He did take his team to a Super Bowl in 1999. But then, Lovie did that once, too.
But I think what bothers me the most is that he would also be the mediocre, safe choice. The Bears would, if history is any indicator, continue to be a mediocre team. With Singletary, we would be taking a chance. He’’s had all of a season and a half to win just one more game than he’s lost. But most seem to feel like he’s moving the 49er’s in the right direction.
To me it comes down to taking the safe/mediocre choice, or having faith in Singletary’s determination to be the best at whatever he does. I would be willing to take the chance on Mike because I’m sick of settling for the safe/conservative choice. But I can fully understand why some wouldn’t, as I’m also tired of waiting on “potential”, as well. I guess I’m just willing to gamble a bit on this one.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Sep 4, 2010 6:48 PM CDT up reply actions
If Singletary was not an ex Bear
no one here would be promoting him.
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Sep 5, 2010 11:03 AM CDT up reply actions
Not as many people would be, true, but just the Vernon Davis thing would have some people
calling for him just because they’d like to see a change in personality over what we’ve had with Lovie and Jauron.
Same with Fisher...
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Sep 9, 2010 6:20 PM CDT up reply actions
Except since Cowher retired
Fisher’s only the longest tenured coach in the NFL. I’d say that speaks more than “ex-Bear” clamoring.
by Steven Schweickert on Sep 10, 2010 8:32 AM CDT up reply actions
Yea for me its about more than ...
… hes an Ex-Bear . He has a history of winning , a history of solid drafts , a history of solid teams and is just plain one of the best coaches around . He’s the best HC without a Super Bowl and if we overhaul at seasons end we need someone like him to turn things around quickly . The only other quick turnaround coaches for us are Ron-Ron and Frazier .
" Everyone has a plan 'till they get punched in the mouth. " ~
Mike Tyson
by MidWayMonster54 on Sep 10, 2010 11:47 PM CDT up reply actions
A question.....
I just wonder why people like to tout Fisher as a great coach with a winning history. He’s had 6 winning seasons out of 16. I spelled it all out below, so I won’t repost it all, but I though maybe you have a perspective I’m missing, cause I’m just not seeing it. Lovie has a better record in the last 6 years than Fisher has, and has accomplished more in that time than Fisher has. It’s been 11 years since he lost the Super Bowl. I’m just saying, I can’t see why we’d get rid of one coach with a history of mediocrity for another coach with a history of mediocrity. Maybe I’m missing something, though.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Sep 11, 2010 9:56 AM CDT up reply actions
For me hes just my personal favorite . He brings ....
…. that " it " factor . His D’s are a bunch of no namers ( most of the time ) and play like a bunch of pro bowlers . His O-lines are usually stout . He just knows how to build a team . And honestly my big knock on Cowher is the 3-4 D . I’m not a big fan of it to say the least .
" Everyone has a plan 'till they get punched in the mouth. " ~
Mike Tyson
by MidWayMonster54 on Sep 11, 2010 1:07 PM CDT up reply actions
I can understand the 3-4 argument....
I’m not sure I like the idea myself, but for those who feel it would take a complete overhaul of our D, remember that it took all of 1 year for the Packers to convert and improve fromt he 4-3 to the three four, and the same for the Jets.
As to the “it” factor, well, I disagree. “It” would need to be based around winning for me to agree. And Fisher hasn’t done that consistently enough for me. As for getting Pro-Bowl performances out of guys who shouldn’t, again, I’m not seeing it. The guys the Titans have sent to the pro-bowl belong there, Fisher or not. And the Bears under Lovie have had their fair share of overachievers like Vasher. His O’lines are usually decent, but his skill positions, other than RB are usually sub-par. I don’t think he sucks, don’t get me wrong. But I do think he’s over-rated and that I want to expect excellence out of our new coach and actually get it. Cowher would be that guy. If we’re going with a first itme head coach, then I want Rivera, who demands a lot, and got it here in Chicago. I’m pretty sure if it was up to him, he’d be running a 4-3 scheme, as well.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Sep 11, 2010 7:17 PM CDT up reply actions
Longest tenure is cool, but....
He’s one his division all of 4 times, and The Titans were still the Houston Oilers when he took over, if that tells you anything. Results say more to me than anything else.
His overall record isn’t bad (136-110 or .553) but he’s won all of 4 division titles (.250) in 16 years, to go with his one AFC Championship, which was now 11 seasons ago. his teams have made the playoffs 6 times (.375) and he has a losing record in the playoffs (5-6 or .455).
To illustrate, contrast the most relevant portion of his resume (at least as far as hiring him to be the Bears coach) against Lovie during the same time period. Two Coaches, you decide which sounds better……
Fisher….:
Record: 48-48 (.500)
Division Crowns: 1 (.167)
Playoff Appearances: 2 (.333)
Playoff Record: 0-2 (.000)
Smith…….:
Record: 52-44 (.542)
Division Crowns: 2 (.333)
Playoff Appearances: 2 (.333)
Playoff Record: 2-2 (.500)
Smith actually has had more success than Fisher has over the past 6 years. Fisher’s resume might be long on years, but it’s short on successes. I don’t want to see the Bears hire another coach that has a track record of mediocrity. Sorry, but I want a winner for a change. If the Bears are going to go with an established coach, I want Cowher. I’ve seen some talking about not wanting Cowher because he only one 1 Super Bowl. What?
For reference, here are Cowher’s numbers over his career compared to Fisher’s.
Category: Fisher’s record (advantage in >,< or =) Cowher’s record
Seasons: 16 > 15
Record: 136-110 (.553) < 149-90-1 (.623)
Division Championships: 4 (.250) < 9 (.600)
AFC Championship: 1 (.064) < 2 (.133)
Playoff Record: 5-6 (.455) < 12-9 (.571)
Average Division Place: 2.4 < 1.7
Average number of wins: 8.4 < 9.9
Number of seasons with winning records: 6 (.375) < 11 (.733)
Mustache: Equal
Cowher was a winner. Meanwhile, Fisher has longevity and mediocrity…….but he does have the right mustache. I’ve tried for years to figure out why some people think he has this winning history.
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Sep 11, 2010 9:51 AM CDT up reply actions
Well we are just going to have to have them all
HC – Singletary
DC – Rivera
OC – Harbaugh
QB coach – Jeremy Bates
ST – Toub
OL – Tice
DL – Marinelli
The rest open interviews from WCG members suggestions
more....
LB Coach – Bob Babich (hated the guy as DC, but our LB squad has been tops with him coaching the position.
Secondary Coach – Mike Brown
WR Coach – Curtis Johnson (Saints WR coach)
RB Coach – Jim Skipper (Carolina RB Coach) or Bobby Skipper (Redskins RB Coach. Was the guy behind the revolving door of can’t fail RBs in Denver under Shanahan)
in•san•i•ty \in-ˈsa-nə-tē\ noun
1 : The practice of repeating the same action while expecting different results.
by Timothy Hockemeyer on Sep 4, 2010 6:57 PM CDT up reply actions
Because he was not all that great the first time
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Sep 11, 2010 1:37 PM CDT up reply actions
*GASP*
David Taylor's personal hype man. Check out his website unless you're a loser. http://www.cheekymonkeyart.com/
by Ditkavsworld on Sep 13, 2010 9:22 AM CDT up reply actions
I think his 106-62 record
Speaks for itself. He was a great coach, had a lot of good talent but he also was a pretty darn good evaluator of talent as well.
"I feel like the pieces are in place. But we have to execute...It's about execution. You have to execute. You have to have a scheme that facilitates the strengths of your players. If it doesn't, then it's a bad scheme. It's that simple. So we feel real good about the parts in place on offense."
"We feel very good about this football team. We felt very good about our football teams in the past and it's no different. You've got to go out there and you've got to do it."
-Jerry Angelo, Aug. 2, 2010
by Sam Householder on Sep 13, 2010 12:56 PM CDT up reply actions
He was a good coach who benefited from great talent
on the field and on the sidelines
I always turn to the sports section first. The sports page records people's accomplishments; the front page has nothing but man's failures.
~Earl Warren
by lookingdeadred on Sep 14, 2010 9:35 PM CDT up reply actions
It actually wasn't me!
I rec’d it, but the editor’s pick is something higher-up than little ol’ me. Hahaha. I def. agree with them though!
"A lot of fans were drawn to me because they knew that whatever the score was, I was going to run as hard as I could on every play. You don't have that now, you have guys waiting for next week or even next year." - Walter Payton
Editor/Writer for WindyCityGridiron.com
by Ashley Czuba on Sep 12, 2010 1:43 PM CDT up reply actions
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