12-15-2020, 03:57 PM
(12-15-2020, 03:11 PM)SHRacerX Wrote: Not only that, but there is a pretty decisive trend out there that players begin to tune out guys like that after a few short years. Harbaugh was known for being that way and although there always seems to be an initial uptick in performance, the long term success isn't there. That is one reason why they say guys like Harbaugh and Brian Kelly are better college coaches.
If I could design a coach, I would want someone that had the following characteristics: (I put them in order of most important to least important...all are important to me, but you see what I am saying)
1.) Innovative- I think players want to play for a coach that isn't overly complex, but they feel like their coach can outsmart the other team in key moments of situational football.
2.) Communicative- I could have said "Be a good instructor", but was looking for one word. I want my coach to be able to clearly communicate what he wants from his coaches and players. Someone that is a genius but can't convey their vision is worthless.
3.) Aggressive- This is a big one for me. I want a coach that will take chances, that will try to deliver the proverbial knockout blow. A coach that doesn't let the other team dictate everything to them, but forces a team to respond to what he is doing. I think players really love playing for a more aggressive-minded coach.
4.) Connected- I want a coach that has connections throughout the college and pro ranks that has always visualized his staff. A team of coaches with one goal that can have healthy conflict and discussions.
5.) Humorous- People might laugh at this one (pardon the pun), but I love a little humor to make the toughest days better and I think people at all levels enjoy working for someone that can provide a little levity at times. I don't care if he only shows it to his team (Belichek), but it is something I would enjoy if I was building a perfect coach.
Who is that coach? I have no idea. I actually like Jay Gruden, but I haven't scoured the assistant coaches and the college ranks to know a premier candidate, but that is what I would be looking for in my next HC.
Although I'm still really high on guys like Bieniemy and Smith - think both could be very good head coaches - the guy who is really got my attention right now is Robert Saleh. He brings a lot of attributes to the table. The more I learn about him and watch how he coaches, interacts with his players...the more I think he might be an ideal candidate for what the team needs right now, and would fit really well in the AFC north. I know most are assuming the Lions have the inside track since he is from Michigan, but if the Bengals do fire Zac, I would love to see them go all out for Saleh.
