View Full Version : Shanahan interviewing assistant coach today.
According to Gil Brandt, from Sirius NFL radio show "The Red Zone", Mike is interviewing an assistant that could be a major hire for the Broncos.
Gil also said Shanny got a steal in hiring Jim Bates. He also said Bill Johnson is a solid Line coach.
Gil said Shanny is changing the face of his defense.
Gil said "Denver could be adding a major assistant in the coming days"
O-line, QB, TE coach?
Elway 4 Life
01-18-2007, 02:56 PM
Special teams coach.........please please please
Master___Pain
01-18-2007, 02:56 PM
Rodriguez perhaps?
Special Teams? Please, special teams!
bronco militia
01-18-2007, 02:59 PM
I'll get excited when we get some better players signed
plummershelper
01-18-2007, 03:00 PM
I'll get excited when we get some better players signed
Quoted for Truth. Although sometimes a poor scheme can be a waste of talent, I still believe we need more depth of talent.
12th man
01-18-2007, 03:02 PM
O-line, QB, TE coach?
Alex Gibbs?;D
Rohirrim
01-18-2007, 03:03 PM
Rodriguez!
http://www.marith.demon.co.uk/graphics/startrek/picard.gif
Make it so!
plummershelper
01-18-2007, 03:03 PM
Could it be a new DB's coach with Slow moving to DC? The Gibbs bit is a thought though. Hmmmmm.
DomCasual
01-18-2007, 03:04 PM
Most likely = Special Teams coach, which would be great, since that's our biggest coaching need. If it's a big name ST coach, I'd feel better.
Wouldn't it be weird = Alex Gibbs. Granted, I seriously doubt it, but it would be a big hiring.
I just don't see other positions that would warrant mentioning on a national radio show. I seriously doubt we would can Heimerdinger after a year.
DomCasual
01-18-2007, 03:06 PM
Hey Khan, you should take off work and go camp out in Dove Valley. See who's coming in and out of that place. In fact, as a general rule, you should probably be spending all your free time there. You could get a scoop.
yerner
01-18-2007, 03:07 PM
Please, one more coach who doesn't play.
Spider
01-18-2007, 03:10 PM
Yeah Shanny called me , short notice , I had to tell him , I will see if I cant fit you in , pretty busy ya know
We need an upgrade on the special teams... desperately.
watermock
01-18-2007, 03:18 PM
I'm just rolling with it. Beezer has his resume in but there seems to be discrimination against African Wildcats.
I think we have allready caught wind of this. We just let it play out.
Kaylore
01-18-2007, 03:19 PM
Hey Khan, you should take off work and go camp out in Dove Valley. See who's coming in and out of that place. In fact, as a general rule, you should probably be spending all your free time there. You could get a scoop.
:rofl: Good idea! Bill paying and social life is overrated anyway.
I hope this is either a special teams coach or a new offensive coach to refill what we've lost there.
Spider
01-18-2007, 03:19 PM
I'm just rolling with it. Beezer has his resume in but there seems to be dicrimination against African Wildcats.
I think we have allready caught wind of this. We just let it play out.
beezer better have a green card is all I can say ........... ;D
Spider
01-18-2007, 03:20 PM
:rofl: Good idea! Bill paying and social life is overrated anyway.
I hope this is either a special teams coach or a new offensive coach to refill what we've lost there.
has there ever been talk of a restraining order ? ;D
Kaylore
01-18-2007, 03:21 PM
has there ever been talk of a restraining order ? ;D
Have you ever met Fred? It's probably how he starts conversations with new people.
Spider
01-18-2007, 03:22 PM
Have you ever met Fred? It's probably how he starts conversations with new people.
is fred in charge of restraining orders ?
55CrushEm
01-18-2007, 03:25 PM
Why was Rodriguez fired from Jacksonville?
If he's as good as people say......
watermock
01-18-2007, 03:25 PM
I think Fred was in a different life in 1933 in Germany.
KipCorrington25
01-18-2007, 03:25 PM
If it was Alex Gibbs, and I don't think it is, would they have to bring him in for an "interview?" It seems unlikely considering the past relationship.
Kaylore
01-18-2007, 03:26 PM
is fred in charge of restraining orders ?
Fred is a security man for the Broncos. He's the guy that yells at people at Dove Valley. He likes to make little children cry when they do wicked things like laugh, play games and give their Father's kisses.
gunns
01-18-2007, 03:29 PM
According to Gil Brandt, from Sirius NFL radio show "The Red Zone", Mike is interviewing an assistant that could be a major hire for the Broncos.
Gil also said Shanny got a steal in hiring Jim Bates. He also said Bill Johnson is a solid Line coach.
Gil said Shanny is changing the face of his defense.
Gil said "Denver could be adding a major assistant in the coming days"
O-line, QB, TE coach?
OL, OL, OL
ST, ST, ST
Please, please, please!
watermock
01-18-2007, 03:29 PM
beezer better have a green card is all I can say ........... ;D
He allready has gotten his DL in N. Caroloina and stolen a dead man's SS number. Crafty Kitty. He's planning on filing for disabilty for torture due to cruel and unusal punishment against me when I clipped his front paws and evicerated his balls.
He's lounging in front of a small foot heater constantly and thinks he can go out in January freeze up here. Crazy Cat. It's not worth bothering about. He's right at my feet roasting right now....sometimes I think I should see if he's a roast with a toothpick.
Spider
01-18-2007, 03:30 PM
Fred is a security man for the Broncos. He's the guy that yells at people at Dove Valley. He likes to make little children cry when they do wicked things like laugh, play games and give their Father's kisses.
I like this fred guy already ...........
Spider
01-18-2007, 03:31 PM
He allready has gotten his DL in N. Caroloina and stolen a dead man's SS number. Crafty Kitty. He's planning on filing for disabilty for torture due to cruel and unusal punishment against me when I clipped his front paws and evicerated his balls.
YOU BASTARD ;D
Arkansas Bronco
01-18-2007, 03:32 PM
Is fred the one with white hair that is in some of the TC photos?
footstepsfrom#27
01-18-2007, 03:37 PM
How can anything other than OC and DC be a "major hire"? ??? We have those guys already...so what's up?
watermock
01-18-2007, 03:40 PM
The major hire is Fred as product control supervisor.
plummershelper
01-18-2007, 03:58 PM
He's hiring Hef to coordinate a "morale" boost for the team, ie Major League.
Rock Chalk
01-18-2007, 04:06 PM
How can anything other than OC and DC be a "major hire"? ??? We have those guys already...so what's up?
You dont think a ST coach to upgrade the worst ST in NFL history would be a major hire?
-Slap-
01-18-2007, 07:43 PM
My first choice is obviously Rodriguez.
My second choice is anyone except Alex Gibbs.
elsid13
01-18-2007, 07:52 PM
yerner is right, last time I looked no coach was on the field making plays. It easy to be great coach when you have guys on the field busting thier butts and playing like there is no tomorrow.
Sir Mawn
01-18-2007, 07:56 PM
My first choice is obviously Rodriguez.
My second choice is anyone except Alex Gibbs.
No Gibbs?
cutthemdown
01-18-2007, 07:59 PM
You dont think a ST coach to upgrade the worst ST in NFL history would be a major hire?
I think it would.
Requiem
01-18-2007, 08:04 PM
It's gotta be Rodriguez.
MechanicalBull
01-18-2007, 08:12 PM
Please Let it be Hayden Fox. He made the Minnesota St. Screaming Eagles into a great football program. ;D
http://www.kfcplainfield.com/tv/coach1.jpg
-Slap-
01-18-2007, 08:17 PM
No Gibbs?
I just don't think going back down that road would be productive now, especially since his kid was shown the door rather unceremoniously.
In a larger sense, I am kind of hoping against hope that we might eventually move towards a bigger, more physical approach up front.
Pendejo
01-18-2007, 10:39 PM
I just don't think going back down that road would be productive now, especially since his kid was shown the door rather unceremoniously.
In a larger sense, I am kind of hoping against hope that we might eventually move towards a bigger, more physical approach up front.
I agree. That ship has sailed. When Gibbs was semi-retired the Donks went out of their way to appease him, and when he decided to become a full time coach again he was out of luck because Shanahan wasn't going to dick over Dennison. Who knows whether or not he harbors ill feelings over the firing of his kid...a lot of the "old school" type would think..."What the hell? He deserved it."
They absolutely need more size...or at least they need to revert to building offensive lines that while they're small they play with a nasty edge. Those lineman on the super bowl teams were mean as snakes.
Hopefully drafting a guy like Kuper pans out...as getting a huge tackle turned into a failure. They've been having problems punching the rock into the endzone inside the five for a long time.
theAPAOps5
01-18-2007, 10:41 PM
Fred is a security man for the Broncos. He's the guy that yells at people at Dove Valley. He likes to make little children cry when they do wicked things like laugh, play games and give their Father's kisses.
Ah gold old Fred. Some kid scooted up the hill towards the trees and knocked some rocks making them slide down. Fred was not happy!
RunSilentRunDeep
01-18-2007, 11:11 PM
Pete Rodriguez has been fired twice in the last four seasons. His kickoff coverage team was great in Jax last season but his punt team had the worst net average in the league and his punt returns sucked as well at 8.0 per. He’s supposedly a fantastic teacher but gets carried away trying to make a mark on the game such as telling his punter to kick out of bounds needlessly. I believe a disastrous squib kick late in the season that he called helped cost him his job
That said, I’d still rather have him than Bradford
footstepsfrom#27
01-18-2007, 11:15 PM
You dont think a ST coach to upgrade the worst ST in NFL history would be a major hire?
Actually I've always doubted the merits of ST coaches. It's not like you're designing some kind of unique innovation to the game. It's all pretty standard stuff...snap the ball and get your *** downfield to knock the crap out of somebody and nail the return man...block the guy in front of you...where's the innovation on a FG team for example...if we're just talking motivational guys...I suppose I can see it but with position coaches or coordinators I see more relevance to coaching than I do with special teams. We need big fast guys who go all out on every play...a question of talent or coaching? I'd suggest it's talent and motivation that leads to success rather than some kind of scheme or philosophy.
Just my .02 though...
plummershelper
01-19-2007, 12:17 AM
Could it be the OLine coach from Miami, formerly of the Chargers? Hudson Houck (sp)??
Atlas
01-19-2007, 12:31 AM
If it was Alex Gibbs, and I don't think it is, would they have to bring him in for an "interview?" It seems unlikely considering the past relationship.
It's not Alex Gibbs!! Shanny just gave Dennison a raise and promoted him to keep him from the Texans... Jesus.. Get a grip. There is nothing wrong with the O-line coaching. Just under talented players.
If this is true than it has to be Rodriguez. Since there are only about 5 elite ST coaches and he is the only one available he would be the major splash.
Bronco LB 59
01-19-2007, 12:52 AM
I hope it's Ernie Zampese. I want to see him up in the booth, calling plays and smoking cigs.
Actually I've always doubted the merits of ST coaches. It's not like you're designing some kind of unique innovation to the game. It's all pretty standard stuff...snap the ball and get your *** downfield to knock the crap out of somebody and nail the return man...block the guy in front of you...where's the innovation on a FG team for example...if we're just talking motivational guys...I suppose I can see it but with position coaches or coordinators I see more relevance to coaching than I do with special teams. We need big fast guys who go all out on every play...a question of talent or coaching? I'd suggest it's talent and motivation that leads to success rather than some kind of scheme or philosophy.
Just my .02 though...
You watch Virginia Tech's football team much? They teach special teams right there and win a game or two pretty much every year thanks to a big ST play. Thats coaching. Of course you need the talent, but you also need someone instructing these young athletes how best to tackle fast returners in space, how to block for those fast returners, or in our punting game's case how to keep from overkicking your coverage with line drive kicks.
STs is all about fundamentals. Today's NFL is all about athletes so most young STers don't have those fundamentals. Bradford clearly isn't teaching them, hopefully someone else is brought in who can.
sgbfan
01-19-2007, 02:44 AM
How about Sarkesian as QB coach! I secretly wanted this to happen, but it looks like he has bigger things coming.
alpine
01-19-2007, 03:23 AM
Post (http://www.denverpost.com/broncos/ci_5042423) says it's Scott O'Brien from Miami...
Rock Chalk
01-19-2007, 05:59 AM
Actually I've always doubted the merits of ST coaches. It's not like you're designing some kind of unique innovation to the game. It's all pretty standard stuff...snap the ball and get your *** downfield to knock the crap out of somebody and nail the return man...block the guy in front of you...where's the innovation on a FG team for example...if we're just talking motivational guys...I suppose I can see it but with position coaches or coordinators I see more relevance to coaching than I do with special teams. We need big fast guys who go all out on every play...a question of talent or coaching? I'd suggest it's talent and motivation that leads to success rather than some kind of scheme or philosophy.
Just my .02 though...
I disagree. Fully. Its not snap the ball and get your ass downfield. Its snap the ball, and each player has an assignment either contain or attack and coaching is just as important in special teams coverages and returns as it is in offense and defense. Chicago focuses heavily on coverage and return blocking and containing on their special teams and quite frankly, anyone in their right mind is stupid to think that Devon Hester is doing it all by himself. The players have been taught well to set up the wall so that he can make those great plays. Yes, you still need a player that can make someone miss, but how many times did our returner (Punt) have someone right in his face as soon as he caught the ball because downfield blocking was horrible?
Its like we give ST an afterthought on coaching and it completely shows. Id take ANYONE over who we currently have.
fontaine
01-19-2007, 06:24 AM
I disagree. Fully. Its not snap the ball and get your ass downfield. Its snap the ball, and each player has an assignment either contain or attack and coaching is just as important in special teams coverages and returns as it is in offense and defense. Chicago focuses heavily on coverage and return blocking and containing on their special teams and quite frankly, anyone in their right mind is stupid to think that Devon Hester is doing it all by himself. The players have been taught well to set up the wall so that he can make those great plays. Yes, you still need a player that can make someone miss, but how many times did our returner (Punt) have someone right in his face as soon as he caught the ball because downfield blocking was horrible?
Its like we give ST an afterthought on coaching and it completely shows. Id take ANYONE over who we currently have.
I think Legworld made a similar comment. He said that through talking with other scouts/coaches around the league the Broncos ST usually had at least one missed assignment/mistake in responsibility every STs play.
I don't know if that's on coaching or players. Probably both.
Kaylore
01-19-2007, 06:27 AM
A lot of people under value the Special Teams and many believe that the coach there really doesn't matter and that they're all the same. It is partly to do with personnel but a good coach can make a big difference. We lost some of our best special teams players to injury, but you need a good coach to help put guys into positions to make plays and make sure they keep their assignments. We need a change in both players and coaching there.
fontaine
01-19-2007, 06:40 AM
A lot of people under value the Special Teams and many believe that the coach there really doesn't matter and that they're all the same. It is partly to do with personnel but a good coach can make a big difference. We lost some of our best special teams players to injury, but you need a good coach to help put guys into positions to make plays and make sure they keep their assignments. We need a change in both players and coaching there.
A disturbing fact about ST this year was that none of our 2nd day picks actually played in STs. Dumervil, Hixon, Eslinger, Kuper?
Typically teams get their 2nd day rookies involved in ST early and get contributions from them. In our case we got nothing and guys that were traditionally good ST players for us like Devoe/Adams/Middlebrooks were gone from the roster.
Add in injuries to Sapp/Kyle Johnson, Nash/Cobbs deactivated, missing Brandon and I think our STs were doomed.
I hope we hang onto Quincy Morgan and keep developing Ernster.
SpringStein
01-19-2007, 07:28 AM
w/o reading all the posts, the DPO reports that it is Scott O'Brien from the Dolphins. He will be ST coach and Bradford will likley be "reassigned". O'Brien had been Assistant Head Coach under Saban. Before that was ST coach at Carolina.
plummershelper
01-19-2007, 07:35 AM
Source: Shanahan talks with ex-Miami coach
<!--subtitle--><!--byline-->By Mike Klis
Denver Post Staff Writer (mklis@denverpost.com?subject=DenverPost.com: Source: Shanahan talks with ex-Miami coach)
<!--date-->Article Last Updated: 01/19/2007 12:17:29 AM MST
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For the Broncos and coach Mike Shanahan, expectations go beyond "win or else."
As Shanahan's insecure assistants have discovered in recent days, the edict at the team's Dove Valley headquarters might as well be "deep in the playoffs or else."
The Broncos had a winning season in 2006, posting a 9-7 record. But after going 13-3 the previous season and reaching the AFC championship game, winning alone wasn't enough to prevent a major shake-up on coaching staff.
The latest change appears to be in special teams as former Miami Dolphins assistant Scott O'Brien was in town Thursday meeting with Shanahan. O'Brien and Shanahan will meet again today.
"So far, so good," said O'Brien, who has 16 years of NFL coaching experience. "It's a great organization, great people. Mike's one of the best in the business. It would be a great situation for anybody."
O'Brien, who held the title as Miami's coordinator of football operations and assistant head coach, is the front-runner to fill the role held the past three seasons by Ronnie Bradford, a former University of Colorado standout cornerback who is expected to be offered another position with the Broncos.
O'Brien was a special-teams coach in Carolina before accepting a position as the right-hand man to Dolphins head coach Nick Saban two years ago. When Saban left to become coach at the University of Alabama, O'Brien was let go.
If O'Brien is hired, as expected, Shanahan will have made changes in all three phases of his coaching staff. He has replaced defensive coordinator Larry Coyer with Jim Bates, who was given the title of assistant head coach of the defense, and defensive line coach Andre Patterson with Bill Johnson.
On offense, tight ends coach Tim Brewster left for the University of Minnesota. Also not expected back is linebackers coach Kirk Doll, while receivers coach Steve Watson and quarterbacks coach Pat McPherson might be reassigned. Among the coaches promoted were Jeremy Bates to quarterbacks coach and Bob Slowik to defensive coordinator.
I think I'm ok with Watson being reassigned, but not with McPherson. I think he's a pretty bright guy. Also, a younger guy will be replacing a man who's helped both Plummer and Cutler progress (regress as well in Jake's case). Could be an issue.
want2bAbronco2
01-19-2007, 09:19 AM
i love all the new coach's. could help evaluate the draft a lot better!
CHANGSTER
01-19-2007, 09:21 AM
Among the coaches promoted were Jeremy Bates to quarterbacks coach and Bob Slowik to defensive coordinator.
Thats the part I found interesting. :~ohyah!:
Traveler
01-19-2007, 09:43 AM
Among the coaches promoted were Jeremy Bates to quarterbacks coach and Bob Slowik to defensive coordinator.
Thats the part I found interesting. :~ohyah!:
Mediator said it would happen. Props to him!
What are the younger Bates' qualifications? Has he coached QB's before? Unless this is a promotion in title only, I think it would be a mistake to put the development of Cutler into the hands of a novice.
watermock
01-19-2007, 09:45 AM
There are three phases of the game...it's not a matter of just running down and kickin' ass. Chicago won several games thru special teams. I would estimate without looking it up that special teams is a full 20% of snaps, and every one is critical.
I would love to snag O'Brien. The Nicktator didn't flow well in Miami, but the guy knows his defense. We seem to be getting the new staff assembled quickly and efficiently. I'm quite pleased. We get everyone together and then start planning for FA and the Draft.
Has Huzzy Bear taken his Jet out of Centennial Airport empty handed?
Atlas
01-19-2007, 10:02 AM
i love all the new coach's. could help evaluate the draft a lot better!
What was wrong with the last 2 drafts???
Maybe the new coaches will help Denver evaluate the draft worse!
Atlas
01-19-2007, 10:04 AM
Among the coaches promoted were Jeremy Bates to quarterbacks coach and Bob Slowik to defensive coordinator.
Thats the part I found interesting. :~ohyah!:
Denver should promote Kubiak from Texans head coach to Broncos QB coach.
Mediator said it would happen. Props to him!
What are the younger Bates' qualifications? Has he coached QB's before? Unless this is a promotion in title only, I think it would be a mistake to put the development of Cutler into the hands of a novice.
Lets be honest, he's a babysitter for Cutler while Shanahan runs the day to day activities, then you know Shanahan is personally involved. There's no way the old QB coach who worked with both Montana and Young wouldn't have serious input in his own top QB's development.
BroncoInferno
01-19-2007, 10:10 AM
Interesting. I wonder if Rodriguez just wasn't interested or if Shanny like O'Brien better? I honestly don't know much about this guy. How were Miami's special teams the last couple of seasons?
KipCorrington25
01-19-2007, 10:18 AM
It's not Alex Gibbs!! Shanny just gave Dennison a raise and promoted him to keep him from the Texans... Jesus.. Get a grip. There is nothing wrong with the O-line coaching. Just under talented players.
If this is true than it has to be Rodriguez. Since there are only about 5 elite ST coaches and he is the only one available he would be the major splash.
Wow, asshole, I said I didn't think it was Gibbs. Trying reading for a change.
footstepsfrom#27
01-19-2007, 10:19 AM
You watch Virginia Tech's football team much? They teach special teams right there and win a game or two pretty much every year thanks to a big ST play. Thats coaching.
I'm not so sure it's coaching as much as it is simply putting a high degree of importance on it...which means that you PRACTICE it with a high degree of regularity. Some teams do and some don't. I suspect the best special teams are those that practice it the most as opposed to those that have mastered schemes or techniques...that and pure desire on the part of the athletes.
Of course you need the talent, but you also need someone instructing these young athletes how best to tackle fast returners in space, how to block for those fast returners, or in our punting game's case how to keep from overkicking your coverage with line drive kicks.
All of which almost any player has had drilled into them for years in both high school and college. How long does it take to tell you punter, "hey Joe, get some height on that ball will ya?" I just don't see this as an instructional thing...more like an emphasis thing.
STs is all about fundamentals. Today's NFL is all about athletes so most young STers don't have those fundamentals. Bradford clearly isn't teaching them, hopefully someone else is brought in who can.
I have a tough time believing that the fundamentals of special teams blocking and tackling change significantly, if at all, from the high school and college level to the pros. The speed of the game is faster, but I don't think to many NFL players have never been exposed to the fundamentals of what it takes to play special teams.
want2bAbronco2
01-19-2007, 10:19 AM
What was wrong with the last 2 drafts???
Maybe the new coaches will help Denver evaluate the draft worse!
I loved last years draft, and the 2 before that were pretty good. But these coach's are on the D side. When was the last Dl, LB, or SS/FS (could add CB, but DW and Dom did good) drafted that was above avg? Of course they could suck, but we haven't exactly been outstanding on that side of the ball during the draft.
plummershelper
01-19-2007, 10:29 AM
<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=3 width="100%" border=0><TBODY><TR><TD class=alt2 style="BORDER-RIGHT: 1px inset; BORDER-TOP: 1px inset; BORDER-LEFT: 1px inset; BORDER-BOTTOM: 1px inset">In the face of Saban's departure, his right-hand man Scott O'Brien has been told he will not be retained.
O'Brien was disliked by co-workers, including special teams coach Keith Armstrong, because O'Brien often wrestled the special teams coaching duties from the special teams coach during practices.
O'Brien is a former special teams coach with Carolina before ''retiring'' from coaching and coming to Miami under Saban. O'Brien was also once reprimanded by the team for using obscene language with team staff.</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>
Apparently he won't exactly be missed in Miami.
footstepsfrom#27
01-19-2007, 10:29 AM
I disagree. Fully. Its not snap the ball and get your ass downfield. Its snap the ball, and each player has an assignment either contain or attack and coaching is just as important in special teams coverages and returns as it is in offense and defense.
Obviously each player has an individual assignment. What I'm saying is that I think the coaching aspect of that assignment is overated. I think it's how much committment is applied to the special teams. How many different ways are there to get off a block? Several...but those skills are taught long before players reach the pros, and their taught in the NFL by position coaches as well.
Chicago focuses heavily on coverage and return blocking and containing on their special teams and quite frankly, anyone in their right mind is stupid to think that Devon Hester is doing it all by himself. The players have been taught well to set up the wall so that he can make those great plays.
I realize Hester's not doing it by himself. But setting up the wall is taught from the first practice in high school. How exactly are NFL special teams coaches teaching this differently? How long does it take to teach this? Certainly not long.
Yes, you still need a player that can make someone miss, but how many times did our returner (Punt) have someone right in his face as soon as he caught the ball because downfield blocking was horrible?
That horrible blocking IMO is a motivation problem not a technique problem. It's like rebounding in basketball...90% effort and desire.
Its like we give ST an afterthought on coaching and it completely shows. Id take ANYONE over who we currently have.
I don't dispute that we probably give special teams an afterthought. But there's a difference between believing that ST's are important and believing it's about coaching. I think it's about how often you practice and the importance laid on the special teams as opposed to individual coaching techniques. Motivation I can see...techniques I doubt are the main issue here.
plummershelper
01-19-2007, 10:31 AM
October 19, 2006
Bad buzz about O'Brien?
The longer he’s gone the more you realize the Panthers, and we’re talking people that matter most (coaches, front office types and players) weren’t all that sad when special teams coach Scott O’Brien left a couple of years ago.
Officially, O’Brien retired. But, a couple days later, he ended up as Nick Saban's right-hand man in Miami. With O’Brien no longer around to play the bully role that might have led to some of his success as the Panthers special teams coach, the talk about him in the locker room isn’t very warm while new special teams coach Danny Crossman gets plenty of praise.
Several people in the organization have talked about O’Brien’s lack of social skills and suggested he was a shameless self-promoter. Funny, but those are the same complaints that are popping up in Miami.
Here's another gem.
BroncoInferno
01-19-2007, 10:36 AM
October 19, 2006
Bad buzz about O'Brien?
The longer he’s gone the more you realize the Panthers, and we’re talking people that matter most (coaches, front office types and players) weren’t all that sad when special teams coach Scott O’Brien left a couple of years ago.
Officially, O’Brien retired. But, a couple days later, he ended up as Nick Saban's right-hand man in Miami. With O’Brien no longer around to play the bully role that might have led to some of his success as the Panthers special teams coach, the talk about him in the locker room isn’t very warm while new special teams coach Danny Crossman gets plenty of praise.
Several people in the organization have talked about O’Brien’s lack of social skills and suggested he was a shameless self-promoter. Funny, but those are the same complaints that are popping up in Miami.
Here's another gem.
If he's a guy who gets results, I don't care if anybody likes him.
footstepsfrom#27
01-19-2007, 10:38 AM
Someone on another thread a couple of weeks ago made what I think was a pretty astude comment, that our special teams are full of to many small players (defensive backs and receivers) with speed but not enough big guys. I don't know how many fans actually freeze the action and mentally take note of who is actually on the different coverage or return units like they do during the regular plays, but after doing so I found this statement to be true. Our special teams don't have as many big guys on it as you'd think. Is this part of the problem? Maybe. I'd like to see a breakdown of other teams...especially the ones with the best ST units... to see what the mix is of linebackers and linemen versus smaller quicker guys.
Broncoman13
01-19-2007, 10:54 AM
I don't remember Gibbs being Mr. Nice Guy either? Seems like he was pretty effective. Get results. That's all that matters. If you can do it by delivering Chocolates and Flowers to the players every day then fine. If you have to curse out the rest of the staff in front of the players children... FINE. So long as we get results!
BTW, I preferred Rodriguez, but only b/c I was more familiar with him. O'Brien's return teams seem to do better than Rod's as well.
Hercules Rockefeller
01-19-2007, 10:54 AM
Interesting. I wonder if Rodriguez just wasn't interested or if Shanny like O'Brien better? I honestly don't know much about this guy. How were Miami's special teams the last couple of seasons?
Rodriquez still had a year left on his Jags contract, so he's getting paid to do nothing. It's gotta be the right team and salary for him to give up whatever the Jags were paying him.
bronco militia
01-19-2007, 10:55 AM
pft headline:
The Nicktator's former ball washer wants a chance to polish some Teflon.
footstepsfrom#27
01-19-2007, 11:12 AM
A lot of people under value the Special Teams and many believe that the coach there really doesn't matter and that they're all the same. It is partly to do with personnel but a good coach can make a big difference. We lost some of our best special teams players to injury, but you need a good coach to help put guys into positions to make plays and make sure they keep their assignments. We need a change in both players and coaching there.
I agree that people under value special teams...I'd go so far as to say that they drastically undervalue them. That's a different thing though than buying into the idea it's about coaching...which I interpret as "teaching or instruction". How many teams draft players with a heavy emphasis on whether they're great special teams players or not? Maybe in the later rounds, but what about the first and second round guys?
The NFL has gone crazy with all the coaches teams now have. I forsee the day when we'll see not only special teams coaches, but individual coaches for each special teams unit...not to mention the specialists. They'll have punter coaches, FG kicker coaches, kickoff specialist coaches, holder coaches, long snapper coaches, "gunner" coaches, and coaches for the punt return game, the KO return game, the punt coverage game, the KO coverage game...maybe even the FG defense game since Hester ran a FG back for a TD why not?
Is it all neccessary or more the result of the NFL coaching fraternity convincing owners they need these guys? If a head coach doesn't want to be bothered or have his position coaches bothered with ST duty...fine. I see no problem with that. But I still question how much actual instruction and teaching goes on with this coaching position.
I recall once in high school where we gave up a KO return for a TD. The next week we spent an entire practice doing nothing but running ourselves ragged on KO return coverage. The following game we had 2 blocked kicks for TD's and a punt return that went about 70 yards. It's got a lot to do with practice, emphasis and committment IMO...not sure how much of that is about instruction or teaching though.
plummershelper
01-19-2007, 11:23 AM
I don't remember Gibbs being Mr. Nice Guy either? Seems like he was pretty effective. Get results. That's all that matters. If you can do it by delivering Chocolates and Flowers to the players every day then fine. If you have to curse out the rest of the staff in front of the players children... FINE. So long as we get results!
BTW, I preferred Rodriguez, but only b/c I was more familiar with him. O'Brien's return teams seem to do better than Rod's as well.
Did Gibbs ever get into it with coaches?
watermock
01-19-2007, 11:28 AM
So we need a players coach on ST?
We should have a Pharoh in a chariot slapping a whip...hey...that a good idea for the rest of the coaches...
You think I care about players feelings? There is no motivation stronger than anger. This isn't kindergarten.
watermock
01-19-2007, 11:30 AM
pft headline:
The Nicktator's former ball washer wants a chance to polish some Teflon.
Don't let PFT bother you...he's hated Denver for years.
Florida_Bronco
01-19-2007, 11:41 AM
You think I care about players feelings?
I bet you care how Jay Cutler feels. Ha!
plummershelper
01-19-2007, 12:37 PM
So we need a players coach on ST?
We should have a Pharoh in a chariot slapping a whip...hey...that a good idea for the rest of the coaches...
You think I care about players feelings? There is no motivation stronger than anger. This isn't kindergarten.
Thanks for summing up my beliefs in my posts of newspaper articles on O'Brien. Beezer says drink two.
plummershelper
01-19-2007, 12:44 PM
Here's Bates' Bio
Jeremy Bates enters his first season as an offensive assistant with the Denver Broncos in 2006 and his fifth overall year as an NFL assistant coach. Bates joined the Broncos after serving as quarterbacks coach for the Jets in 2005 and working with the Buccaneers as their assistant quarterbacks coach (2004) and offensive quality control coach (2002-03).
As quarterbacks coach for the Jets in 2005, Bates instructed a unit that was forced to use five different passers because of injuries. Despite the adversity, New York's quarterbacks helped the club improve toward the end of the year with first-year starter Brooks Bollinger posting an 87.7 passer rating and leading the team to a 2-2 record in its final four games.
Bates, 30, was promoted to assistant quarterbacks coach for the Buccaneers in 2004 and worked closely with Head Coach Jon Gruden and Quarterbacks Coach John Shoop in the instruction and preparation of the team's passers. In that capacity, Bates helped Brian Griese lead the NFL in completion percentage (69.3%) in 2004 and set Buccaneers single-season records in that category along with passer rating (97.5) and yards per passing attempt (7.83). Bates began his coaching career with Tampa Bay as an offensive quality control coach from 2002-03.
Tampa Bay's offense in 2003 was arguably the most productive in franchise history as Bates assisted a unit that set single-season records in total offense (340.8 ypg.) and passing offense (237.8 ypg.). In addition, the club ranked among the league's top 10 in both categories in the same year for just the second time in Buccaneers annals.
In his first season in the NFL's coaching ranks, Bates worked with a Buccaneers offense in 2002 that was pivotal in the franchise winning its first-ever world championship with a victory over the Oakland Raiders in Super Bowl XXXVII. Tampa Bay's offense was particularly dominant in the postseason, averaging 35.3 points and 334.0 yards per game in three playoff contests that year.
At Sevier County High School in Sevierville, Tenn., Bates began his collegiate playing career as a quarterback at the University of Tennessee in 1995. He transferred to Rice University, where he was a two-year letterman in football from 1996-99 and was a second baseman on the school's baseball team.
Bates' father, Jim, spent the last six years as an NFL defensive coordinator with Green Bay (2005) and Miami (2000-04), for whom he served as interim head coach for seven games during the 2004 season. He also has worked as a defensive coordinator for Atlanta (1994) and has 15 years of NFL coaching experience.
Bates' brother, James, was a linebacker and defensive captain on the University of Florida's 1996 national championship team and currently produces a variety of sports-related television programming in Florida.
Jeremy Bates was born Aug. 27, 1976, in Manhattan, Kan.
Coaching Experience: 5th NFL Season (1st with Broncos)
Denver Broncos: Offensive Assistant 2006
New York Jets: Quarterbacks 2005
Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Assistant Quarterbacks 2004
Offensive Quality Control 2002-03
