12-10-2017, 10:16 PM
(12-10-2017, 08:50 PM)Big Boss Wrote: 1) Earlier in the season, there was a report that Mike Brown was displeased with the team's performance, believing that there was enough talent on the roster and essentially calling out the coaches. If there is truth to that report, and Brown believes coaching is the issue here, how does he justify bringing Marvin back?
2) Mo Egger raised an interesting point last week. Back in 2002 when we were in the market for a new head coach, the situation was not too dissimilar from where we are now. Fans aren't showing up, fans are fed up, the city has grown apathetic towards the team. Obviously hindsight is 20/20, but at the time Marvin Lewis was a hot candidate for a head coaching job. Perhaps THE hottest new candidate on the market. And Mike Brown hired him. He didn't hire from within the existing organization. He brought in a hot candidate to revitalize fan interest. So as we go into this off season under the assumption that Marvin is gone, what are the odds that Brown pursues a hot candidate once again? Promoting Guenther isn't going to put asses back in seats.
3) None of the coaches are under contract after this season. However, we know Brown is close friends with at least one assistant coach (Alexander). Even if we bring in a new head coach, will he be given free reign to choose who stays and who goes, or will Brown basically tell him who's sticking around (spoiler alert: Alexander)?
I do agree with Mike on the talent aspect. This team should have been way better than they are. Coaching has killed it.
The only way Mike brings Marvin back is if he can't find someone he deems a "suitable replacement". Contrary to popular belief, he does care about the fans.... Attendance numbers. If there's ever a threat to selling tickets, Mike will make necessary changes. And as you say, going into this offseason it's a lot like it was in 2002 (thankfully). Otherwise, there is little doubt he wouldn't promote from within.
Also... I believe we will see an announcement that Katie will be taking over the team in January. How much control she allows the next coach remains to be seen... But I don't think she's nearly as egotistical as her father. Time will tell.
