Spagnuolo To Interview with Denver

[SouthStndJunkie]

SPAGNUOLO TO INTERVIEW WITH BRONCOS

Posted by Mike Florio on January 1, 2009, 1:45 p.m. EST

Jay Glazer of FOXSports.com reports that Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo will interview on Saturday for the unexpected head-coaching vacancy in Denver.

It will be, per Glazer, an “informal” interview, due to the fact that Spagnuolo has committed to other interviews during the Giants’ playoff bye week.

Spagnuolo has interviewed and/or will interview with the Lions, Browns, and Jets. Last year, he was considered for the Redskins’ job, but opted not to leave New York.

Glazer also reports that the Broncos will interview Bucs defensive coordinator Raheem Morris on Monday.

Since former Broncos coach Mike Shanahan held full authority over the roster and, as a practical matter, the personnel side of the operation, it remains to be seen whether Broncos owner Pat Bowlen hires a G.M. and a head coach, or a head coach who will operate with the same degree of control as Shanahan enjoyed.

The challenge of hiring a G.M. and a head coach is that it can get pricey — especially with a reported total of $21 million owed to Shanahan over the next three years.

[SouthStndJunkie]

Both Morris and Spagnuolo are in my top 5 list of candidates.

[Rock Chalk]

Excellent.

I dont know Morris but I know Spags and I like Spags.

[SureShot]

Yes please.

I can't believe Bowlen made this move without already having something planned out.

[Steve Sewell]

Yes please.

I can't believe Bowlen made this move without already having something planned out.

What makes you believe that? Because he said it to the press? Learn PR my friend.

[Traveler]

I'd be happy with any of these guys:

Morris
Spaguolo
Schwartz
Ryan
McDaniels

[Popps]

Yes please.

I can't believe Bowlen made this move without already having something planned out.

That's probably an incorrect assumption. Odds are, he DID have things planned out, but you still have to interview people... talk numbers, etc. You can only do so much during the season without tampering.

[Paladin]

Either Morris or Spags would be great, I think. Then we would need to hope that Goodman keeps picking in the draft... I can see this team getting better fast. They have a high calibre O, now they need an "average level or better D" and they are good to go.....

[HooptyHoops]

Yeah, Spags would be nice...he can bring the Giants DL coach to Denver...it would be very nice!

[SureShot]

That's probably an incorrect assumption. Odds are, he DID have things planned out, but you still have to interview people... talk numbers, etc. You can only do so much during the season without tampering.

Would this logic still pertain to Pioli as well? I think anytime you can make a change and take out one of the legs of the best team in the NFL, you do it.

[BroncoFiend]

Yes please.

I can't believe Bowlen made this move without already having something planned out.

I doubt he had someone 'planned out', but he certainly knew the options out there.

I like that he's looking for young talent, rather than an old retred like Cowher.

[SouthStndJunkie]

I am glad that we seem to be leaning towards a head coach with experience on the defensive side of the ball.

[TonyR]

I've been on the Spagnuolo bandwagon for a while so I'm happy to hear this.

See the thread linked below where I was called all sorts of names for suggesting an interest in Spags.

http://www.orangemane.com/BB/showthread.php?t=74354

[BroncoFiend]

Would this logic still pertain to Pioli as well? I think anytime you can make a change and take out one of the legs of the best team in the NFL, you do it.

I agree, it would seem Pioli is a perfect fit to run the team. But it is sounding more and more like Bowlen himself will be the 'GM' with the Goodmans running personnel and a coach running the team on the field.

[broncocalijohn]

Yes please.

I can't believe Bowlen made this move without already having something planned out.

Maybe he figures that the Bronocs are still an elite team with an elite organization that others will be flocking to the front office. Hopefully his ego, right or wrong, will get us the personnel we need. Spags has done great things in two years even after Strahan has retired.

[theAPAOps5]

Yes please.

I can't believe Bowlen made this move without already having something planned out.

He didn't, don't believe what he says at a press conference. You don't announce you have it all planned out while saying goodbye to the man who built Invesco for you. You play it cool and keep the focus on the moment.

[SoDak Bronco]

any reason we aren't going after pioli? Does this mean Xanders and the Goodmens will be the GM's??

[Dagmar]

I would be absolutely DELIGHTED with this hire. I would do a happy dance.

http://beckyboop.files.wordpress.com/2008/03/happy-dance.jpg

[Rulon Velvet Jones]

Love Spags.

And also reading that Pioli's demands are far too high, even for a team like the Browns.

[Paladin]

Ya know, I wonder if Ellis or Goodman were putting those names on the desk on Tuesday, and Bowlen hadn't had time to read them over before the Pressser. He could honestly say he'd not thought about "who" for either position. Also, Ellis might have been drawing up the new Organization Chart, and needed time to get the thing printed on the HP printer. Here it is, NYD and they are putting out info as to whom they are going to interview? Didn't know who? Give me a break.....

[theAPAOps5]

I agree, it would seem Pioli is a perfect fit to run the team. But it is sounding more and more like Bowlen himself will be the 'GM' with the Goodmans running personnel and a coach running the team on the field.

No he will not be the GM. He was asked that in the interview. He said he has no business being the GM.

My theory is he wants to hire the coach and the GM himself. The coach answers to him for the play on the field. The GM answers to him for the "play" off the field. Neither the GM or coach answer to eachother.

[Paladin]

I've been on the Spagnuolo bandwagon for a while so I'm happy to hear this.

See the thread linked below where I was called all sorts of names for suggesting an interest in Spags.

http://www.orangemane.com/BB/showthread.php?t=74354

Well, maybe you deserved all thoise names.....

[Bronx33]

I heard the name Jim Caldwell from the colts as a possibility.

[CBF1]

Watching this play out is going to be exciting and something as a Bronco fan, We have not seen in a long time.

[SoDak Bronco]

http://weblogs.newsday.com/sports/football/bob_blog/spagnuolo.jpg

[HEAV]

It's all about putting the D back into *enver!

[broncocalijohn]

I've been on the Spagnuolo bandwagon for a while so I'm happy to hear this.

See the thread linked below where I was called all sorts of names for suggesting an interest in Spags.

http://www.orangemane.com/BB/showthread.php?t=74354


I never saw the thread but was one that thought Shanny would not be gone. I loved this quote from a Maner. Wonder if he wants to eat his words yet. Congrats to Tony for not being the Johnny Come Lately but the Yanks still suck!
Talk about a pile of mediocrity. Thank goodness for Mike Shanahan and Pat Bowlen.


Andy Reid? Lets all thank the big man upstairs people like TonyR are nothing more than bystanders with absurd, meaningless opinions.

[HEAV]

Watching this play out is going to be exciting and something as a Bronco fan, We have not seen in a long time.

QFT!

I'm excited to see where we go from here. Not just in coaching, but player addtion in free agency and the draft! This change is going to bring life back into the franchise!

[Paladin]

So. You think dumping Shanahan was a good thing?

[TonyR]

Well, maybe you deserved all thoise names.....

So you're not on board with Spagnuolo? Why not? When I suggested him over a month ago in that thread it was treated as preposterous. Now not so much I guess.

[baja]

Of course Bowlen has an idea of what he wants to do but the press conference was not the time to talk about that, it was a time to announce a change and a change of this magnitude is all that gets addressed in this one presser. I can't believe this is not obvious.

[socalorado]

So you're not on board with Spagnuolo? Why not? When I suggested him over a month ago in that thread it was treated as preposterous. Now not so much I guess.

I like Spags, and think he is the most NFL ready guy with McDaniel.

[tsiguy96]

im still worried the coach will get rid of some of the stars like marshall....

[TonyR]

I loved this quote from a Maner. Wonder if he wants to eat his words yet. Congrats to Tony for not being the Johnny Come Lately...

Yes, me and my absurd, meaningless opinions!

[TonyR]

im still worried the coach will get rid of some of the stars like marshall....

Why would anybody do that?

[Paladin]

Gosh. Don't get your panties in a bunch, guy. I think He is a good candidate, but I think others need to be considered as well.

See, I think he would be a good coach. What I don't know is whether he would fit in the Organizational Chart since we have no real idea what direction Bowlen is going. Might depend on how they conceive the GM role..... Should be interesting to watch.....

[socalorado]

Why would anybody do that?

I know. "This guy really helps my chances of winning in my 1st ever year as a HC......lets get rid of em!!!"

[HEAV]

im still worried the coach will get rid of some of the stars like marshall....

The kid is heading into his contract year. So maybe it is his last year.

[Popps]

This would be an exciting move. Not my first choice, but a good one. I wonder how much he had to do with the personnel in NY as far as the D goes? They've done a phenomenal job bringing in players.

[Paladin]

No coach is going to destroy a decent O. Would he get rid of Cutler because he throws "too many red zone Ints"? Don't think so......

[Popps]

The kid is heading into his contract year. So maybe it is his last year.

I love what Marshall brings, but I'd trade him for a dominant DE in a heartbeat.

That said, I don't think we'll have to make that choice. I think we'll lock him up.

[Paladin]

Maybe get a discount because he lost some feeling in the hand?

[HEAV]

I love what Marshall brings, but I'd trade him for a dominant DE in a heartbeat.

That said, I don't think we'll have to make that choice. I think we'll lock him up.

You hate to lose talent...even if it is immature and has a trend of finding trouble...

But hey that's what the franchise tag is for!:yayaya:

[Cito Pelon]

I agree, it would seem Pioli is a perfect fit to run the team. But it is sounding more and more like Bowlen himself will be the 'GM' with the Goodmans running personnel and a coach running the team on the field.

In the presser IIRC, when someone asked Bowlen about the GM side of the operation he had a seven word answer - "The personnel operation will stay the same."

That seemed pretty definite to me.

[Steve Sewell]

So. You think dumping Shanahan was a good thing?

Have you been pleased with witnessing 1 playoff victory during the last decade?

[tsiguy96]

You hate to lose talent...even if it is immature and has a trend of finding trouble...

But hey that's what the franchise tag is for!:yayaya:

not this **** again, he even said in his last game that he hopes SD triple covers him so royal and scheff can get a lot of catches, yet it still isnt good enough. his "trend" of finding trouble extends all the way to....well he got arrested once, got a DUI. damn, thats a nasty pacman like trend.


we better lock marshall up for a very long time.

[ScottXray]

The signing of sevral players (one AFTER the firing) and the interviewing of these coaches (both would be EXCELLENT to upgrade the D) tells me that Bowlen is relying on somebody (probably the Goodmans ) for info on where the team needs to go, AND that he didn't just fire from the hip. This WAS thought out in advance.

My thought is Goodman is our de-facto GM right now, and Bowlen saying he is staying is GOOD news.

[MechanicalBull]

I've been on the Spags bandwagon for awhile now. We have the offense so let Bates keep that and now get the defense in shape.

Bring him in as HC and have him bring over Mike Waufle(Giants DL coach) as our DC.

[Cito Pelon]

Watching this play out is going to be exciting and something as a Bronco fan, We have not seen in a long time.

Yah, it's certainly exciting. Spagnuolo is what 50 yrs old? I can see the interview but maybe Bowlen wants someone younger. Bowlen literally knows every single person in the NFL. He's not some new guy in the ranks.

I wonder what Bowlen's time frame is. There has to be an absolute target date to get a new HC. Is that Valentine's day? I don't know, nobody knows except Bowlen.

[Broncoman13]

Anybody that steps up to the plate like Marshall and accepts responsibility for his poor play gets the nod from me. I have NO DOUBT that he will do every thing he can to make himself better and to lead his teammates as well. You watch, next year at camp he will be taking on a leadership role that will surprise people. We are coming into a very good time here in Denver. Jay throws people under the bus, Brandon takes personal accountability to another level, even calling himself out in public. If we let Brandon go it will be a huge mistake. I wouldn't trade him for DeMarcus Ware at this point!

[flynzebra]

Does anyone recall who was in the running when Shannahan was ultimately hired? It would be interesting to see...

[Paladin]

That's Rod Smith for you. Trains them well, I'd say......

[lex]

Yeah, Spags would be nice...he can bring the Giants DL coach to Denver...it would be very nice!

..or the Giant's DLine.

[tsiguy96]

Anybody that steps up to the plate like Marshall and accepts responsibility for his poor play gets the nod from me. I have NO DOUBT that he will do every thing he can to make himself better and to lead his teammates as well. You watch, next year at camp he will be taking on a leadership role that will surprise people. We are coming into a very good time here in Denver. Jay throws people under the bus, Brandon takes personal accountability to another level, even calling himself out in public. If we let Brandon go it will be a huge mistake. I wouldn't trade him for DeMarcus Ware at this point!

jay speaks the truth, doesnt sugar coat it, nothing like that. though i wish he would take more accountability for himself, he doesnt BS people.

[Atlas]

I'd like Rex Ryan.

I just hope they hire a defensive guy and keep the Offensive coaches in tact. I love Denver's system. I believe getting rid of Dennison, Turner and Bates would be a mistake.

[tsiguy96]

I'd like Rex Ryan.

I just hope they hire a defensive guy and keep the Offensive coaches in tact. I love Denver's system. I believe getting rid of Dennison, Turner and Bates would be a mistake.

agree 100%

[lex]

I'd like Rex Ryan.

I just hope they hire a defensive guy and keep the Offensive coaches in tact. I love Denver's system. I believe getting rid of Dennison, Turner and Bates would be a mistake.

Whatever we do, we need to keep the same system and more importantly the ZBS. The offense is on the rise. But its a dominant running game away from being great. Fortunately, defensive coaches tend to like running the ball. Hopefully, we'll be able to fix the defense and add a dominant running game.

[barryr]

I also want a defensive minded coach who will let Bates or whoever run the offense. The Bronco defense has stunk for awhile now and it needs to change if they are ever to make a run at another Super Bowl.

[Dudeskey]

I also want a defensive minded coach who will let Bates or whoever run the offense. The Bronco defense has stunk for awhile now and it needs to change if they are ever to make a run at another Super Bowl.

If Bowlen wants to keep the offensive staff on board, it sounds like The new HC, who's likely to be a defensive guy will probably be told to not screw w/ the offense. I think Colts GM Bill Polian did the same thing when he hired Dungy. They had their same offensive staff when he came in and never changed it...

[Lolad]

Well shannahan said in his press conference that the new coach would be an idiot if he didn't keep the same personnell and scheme basedbon what he has seen

[gunns]

Either Morris or Spags would be great, I think. Then we would need to hope that Goodman keeps picking in the draft... I can see this team getting better fast. They have a high calibre O, now they need an "average level or better D" and they are good to go.....

Uh, I don't think so. Take a look at the top teams in the league, including the one whose D coord we are looking at. They all have high caliber D" and average level or better O. Unfortunately for Shanahan he thought the same way you did.

[broncofan7]

I've been on the Spagnuolo bandwagon for a while so I'm happy to hear this.

See the thread linked below where I was called all sorts of names for suggesting an interest in Spags.

http://www.orangemane.com/BB/showthread.php?t=74354

You Da' man!

[Atlas]

Does anyone recall who was in the running when Shannahan was ultimately hired? It would be interesting to see...

Fassel was second on Bowlen's list after Shanny.

[lex]

I also want a defensive minded coach who will let Bates or whoever run the offense. The Bronco defense has stunk for awhile now and it needs to change if they are ever to make a run at another Super Bowl.

If Bates is going crazy with the pass, the HC needs to be able to re-focus him on the run.

[lex]

Uh, I don't think so. Take a look at the top teams in the league, including the one whose D coord we are looking at. They all have high caliber D" and average level or better O. Unfortunately for Shanahan he thought the same way you did.


Theres not one way to win.

[footstepsfrom#27]

I also want a defensive minded coach who will let Bates or whoever run the offense. The Bronco defense has stunk for awhile now and it needs to change if they are ever to make a run at another Super Bowl.
I'm always cautious about coaches people describe as either offensive or defensive minded. A head coach should be balanced, recognize the equal importance of both sides of the ball and have an overall philosophy that allows his coordinators to do their thing. Shanahan's major weakness was being overly biased towards offense. If we bring in a guy who has the same tendency towards the other side of the LOS, we run the same risk we had before. I think lots of coaches gain a reputation that they are "minded" towards a partiular side of the ball when their teams succeed with that. This is one reason I prefer somebody who has been a HEAD COACH somewhere in the past, as opposed to a guy who hasn't. Even though we have talent in place on offense, this is the era of free agency and there is no guarntee the same guys we have there will be there a couple years down the road. We should be looking for a coach to be here at least 10 years. I wouldn't want Pat to hire a guy soley because he's a good defensive coach. That's what coordinators are for. He needs to get somebody who sees the entire picture.

[Borks147]

If Bates is going crazy with the pass, the HC needs to be able to re-focus him on the run.

so you're assuming Bates will be stripped of his play calling duties?

On a separate note, WTF does Dennison do exactly anyways? He was the offensive coordinator but Bates called the plays with Shanny's final approval. Office Space comes to mind "well no...my ASSISTANT does that...but I'm a people person!"

[lex]

so you're assuming Bates will be stripped of his play calling duties?

On a separate note, WTF does Dennison do exactly anyways? He was the offensive coordinator but Bates called the plays with Shanny's final approval. Office Space comes to mind "well no...my ASSISTANT does that...but I'm a people person!"


No. Thats not what that means. Theres a difference between telling Bates which running play to call and telling him to run the ball.

[Circle Orange]

The latest magic bullet. He'll have to gut the defense and start over.

[lex]

The latest magic bullet. He'll have to gut the defense and start over.

Perhaps, but...

Steve Spagnuolo, Giants defensive coordinator
He just signed an extension last season to remain as the Giants' defensive coordinator, but that won't stop the suitors from seeking his services. The Giants lost DE Michael Strahan to retirement, DE Osi Umenyiora to injury and LB Kawika Mitchell and SS Gibril Wilson to free agency. This is also a Giants defense that, despite those losses, is better right now than the group that finished the 2007 season with a Super Bowl title. Spagnuolo is an excellent playcaller who always seems to be one step ahead of the offense he's facing. Players love to play for him, not only because he is smart, but because he understands how to put them in a position to be the best player they can be every weekend. If the Eagles were to cut ties with head coach Andy Reid, Spagnuolo would be high on their list because he's a perfect fit with his knowledge and understanding of the NFC East.

[oubronco]

anybody that comes from the Jim Johnson tree and has had a Defense like he has had at NY bring him in

[lookin' glass]

Fassel supposedly sent a letter to Crazy Al asking to become the Raiduhs HC how delusional do you have to be to do that?

[SonOfLe-loLang]

Fassel was second on Bowlen's list after Shanny.

Yeah, but it was shanny or bust really. Remember he really wanted Shanny when he hired Wade, but Mike didnt want to leave SF at the time.

[lookin' glass]

Also, Nolan would be a nightmare. His handling of players is horrible. Specifically Alex Smith and VD. Smith was making progress under Norv then Norv goes south. Then Smith was under a good buddy of Nolans who was on par with the Bed and Breakfast owner moonlighting as OC in Oakland. Don't know if Smith would have ever been anything but because he couldn't produce under the direction of a doorknob, Nolan railed on him in public and ignored him personally. VD was doing whatever he wanted and Nolan didn't say anything to him. Nolan is a no-no.

[fontaine]

SPAGNUOLO TO INTERVIEW WITH BRONCOS

The challenge of hiring a G.M. and a head coach is that it can get pricey — especially with a reported total of $21 million owed to Shanahan over the next three years.


Question: Does anyone know if that 21 million will be paid if Shanahan gets hired to a new team?

[Traveler]

Question: Does anyone know if that 21 million will be paid if Shanahan gets hired to a new team?

He gets paid as long as he doesn't coach anywhere else is what I've read. Once he accepts a job, it comes off the books.

[Bronx33]

He gets paid as long as he doesn't coach anywhere else is what I've read. Once he accepts a job, it comes off the books.

And if he doesn't it's like 6.5 million a year or do we have to pay him all at once?

[Hercules Rockefeller]

Mike is owed $20M over the next 3 years, he is guaranteed that amount of money. There are 3 possible ways for Mike to get that money.

1. Mike doesn't take a job with anyone over that time period- Pat pays it all.
2. Mike takes a job that averages less per year, Pat pays the difference between Mike's new salary and what he was owed from the Broncos.
3. Mike takes a job that pays more than what Pat owed him, Pat pays nothing.

[Bronx33]

Mike is owed $20M over the next 3 years, he is guaranteed that amount of money. There are 3 possible ways for Mike to get that money.

1. Mike doesn't take a job with anyone over that time period- Pat pays it all.
2. Mike takes a job that averages less per year, Pat pays the difference between Mike's new salary and what he was owed from the Broncos.
3. Mike takes a job that pays more than what Pat owed him, Pat pays nothing.


Thanks herc and i think mikes next boss pays top dollar.

[Crushaholic]

Cutler would probably appreciate another offensive-minded coach, but we need someone who has a clue what to do with the defense. If that person comes in (like a Raheem Morris) and keeps bolstering the offense at the same time, we'll be Super Bowl-bound faster than what people think...

[SouthStndJunkie]

Cutler would probably appreciate another offensive-minded coach, but we need someone who has a clue what to do with the defense. If that person comes in (like a Raheem Morris) and keeps bolstering the offense at the same time, we'll be Super Bowl-bound faster than what people think...

I agree....we have most of the offensive pieces in place....a good offensive coordinator can run the offense and put up plenty of points.

What we need is a defensive guru as the head coach....if we can play some decent defense, pressure the QB, and cause some turnovers, I am confident we can score enough points to win on offense.

[thumpc]

Shanny did have the FO and offense in good shape. One good offseason with a smart Dcoordinator and we have a 13-3 team right here!
:bronxrox:

[Ambiguous]

I agree....we have most of the offensive pieces in place....a good offensive coordinator can run the offense and put up plenty of points.

What we need is a defensive guru as the head coach....if we can play some decent defense, pressure the QB, and cause some turnovers, I am confident we can score enough points to win on offense.

This is where we need to go. We have great personnel on offense, I think it can work with just about anyone coaching. If we can get someone that can basically build a defense from scratch, we will be SB bound in a couple of years.

This got me thinking of how weird it would be to see a Broncos team with a dominant D. How sad.

[Rock Chalk]

so you're assuming Bates will be stripped of his play calling duties?

On a separate note, WTF does Dennison do exactly anyways? He was the offensive coordinator but Bates called the plays with Shanny's final approval. Office Space comes to mind "well no...my ASSISTANT does that...but I'm a people person!"


Dennison runs the offensive line. ANd runs it well. Leave his job alone.

Get rid of bates, get a playcaller that knows how to be BALANCED and I will be happy with the offense. Bates sucks.

[rastaman]

I'd like Rex Ryan.

I just hope they hire a defensive guy and keep the Offensive coaches in tact. I love Denver's system. I believe getting rid of Dennison, Turner and Bates would be a mistake.

Yep! Bowlen must keep as much of Shanahan's Offensive DNA as possible and focus on turning around the Defense in two years.

[Man-Goblin]

I want.

[TonyR]

Get rid of bates, get a playcaller that knows how to be BALANCED and I will be happy with the offense. Bates sucks.

I'm not sold on Bates, either. But he just got a big raise and extension so Bowlen must like him unless that was all Shanny.

[tsiguy96]

Dennison runs the offensive line. ANd runs it well. Leave his job alone.

Get rid of bates, get a playcaller that knows how to be BALANCED and I will be happy with the offense. Bates sucks.

how hard is it for people to understand that we didnt have a running back? think to the jax or jets game, 20+ carries because we had a good RB that was healthy. the last few games we didnt have any. when we have a RB, we will run the ball. even without one, we passed the ball pretty handily. bates is not the problem, in his first year he made cutler kill the franchise passing records.

[oubronco]

Dennison runs the offensive line. ANd runs it well. Leave his job alone.

Get rid of bates, get a playcaller that knows how to be BALANCED and I will be happy with the offense. Bates sucks.

all his RB's were injured what else was he gonna do

[baja]

.

Get rid of bates, get a playcaller that knows how to be BALANCED and I will be happy with the offense. Bates sucks.

That's just nuts don't fix what is not broke.

[Bronx33]

That's just nuts don't fix what is not broke.


Can we just get rid of that stupid WR screenplay?

[baja]

Ha ha I hope so. That would mean we had a running back

[lex]

Can we just get rid of that stupid WR screenplay?

I guess youre not a big fan of Josh McDaniels then? It seems they run stuff like that a lot more than we do.

[elsid13]

so you're assuming Bates will be stripped of his play calling duties?

On a separate note, WTF does Dennison do exactly anyways? He was the offensive coordinator but Bates called the plays with Shanny's final approval. Office Space comes to mind "well no...my ASSISTANT does that...but I'm a people person!"

Dennison developed the run attack strategy for the upcoming games and was in charge of the line

Bates developed the passing attack strategy and called the plays. He was also the guy that was Culter personnel coach during game day.

[elsid13]

Can we just get rid of that stupid WR screenplay?

We get healthy running backs that becomes less important.

[Drek]

Dennison runs the offensive line. ANd runs it well. Leave his job alone.

Get rid of bates, get a playcaller that knows how to be BALANCED and I will be happy with the offense. Bates sucks.

When Hillis was pounding the ball we had a pretty capable running attack.

I think Bates has a lot of potential and already knows our talent well. I'd like to see him retained myself, and have him and Dennison split duties on the offense.

An important aspect of that though will be who the head coach is. If someone like Spagnuolo is running the show you can be sure he's going to want more running plays to burn clock and let his D catch a breather between opposing possessions.

[wolf754life]

i want everyone to watch the giants D throughout the playoffs, notice how they attack the offense, notice how they are aggressive, they attack, not react..........

this would be the proper hire.

[baja]

i want everyone to watch the giants D throughout the playoffs, notice how they attack the offense, notice how they are aggressive, they attack, not react..........

this would be the proper hire.

Who does the attacking for us, Moss maybe Boss

[Drek]

Who does the attacking for us, Moss maybe Boss

Moss and Dumervil primarily I would guess.

Spagnuolo and Waufle did some impressive things with the second tier of DLs behind Strahan, we'd be real lucky to see some of that here.

[lex]

Anyone cheering against the Giants to lose a tight low scoring game soon in the playoffs so that it doesnt complicate matters and better frees up Spags to become HC?

[Rock Chalk]

how hard is it for people to understand that we didnt have a running back? think to the jax or jets game, 20+ carries because we had a good RB that was healthy. the last few games we didnt have any. when we have a RB, we will run the ball. even without one, we passed the ball pretty handily. bates is not the problem, in his first year he made cutler kill the franchise passing records.

Im so tired of explaining this to you morons.

Bates refused to run the ball consistently EVEN WHEN IT WAS ****ING WORKING.

[Drek]

Anyone cheering against the Giants to lose a tight low scoring game soon in the playoffs so that it doesnt complicate matters and better frees up Spags to become HC?

I don't think it'd be too big an obstacle. If he's interested and Bowlen wants him they'll have a handshake agreement in place, and Bowlen has made it sound like he's going to let Goodman run the FO/personnel side of the team.

So all the Giants having a deep run would do is make Spags' resume look better and require a couple extra hours for the first week or so to get on the same page with the FO about free agency and the draft.

[broncofan7]

Anyone cheering against the Giants to lose a tight low scoring game soon in the playoffs so that it doesnt complicate matters and better frees up Spags to become HC?

Well, I picked Indy Vs PHI for the SB--so I am hoping that the Iggles knock them out in 2 weeks.

[theAPAOps5]

Well technically this weekend they can offer Spags the job if they see fit. Assistants of teams on the bye can meet that week. They can also offer it to him with a timeline to answer.

[lex]

I don't think it'd be too big an obstacle. If he's interested and Bowlen wants him they'll have a handshake agreement in place, and Bowlen has made it sound like he's going to let Goodman run the FO/personnel side of the team.

So all the Giants having a deep run would do is make Spags' resume look better and require a couple extra hours for the first week or so to get on the same page with the FO about free agency and the draft.

Lets hope that happens. The more I think about it, the more Im convinced it should be him...hopefully Bowlen thinks so too.

[bloodsunday]

I'd rather Raheem Morris - an up and coming young guy with a lot to prove. A motivator.

Not a big fan of Spagnuolo because the "hottest assistant for the best team" is usually a disaster. It's kinda like the Heisman Trophy (aka "The Best Player on the Best Team Award"). Never works out for the next team. See every New England or Pittsburgh assistant that ever left.

[Rohirrim]

Spags would be the best choice. Spags greatest strength? D Line. Broncos greatest weakness? D Line. It's a match made in heaven.

[TonyR]

Spagnuolo and Waufle did some impressive things with the second tier of DLs behind Strahan, we'd be real lucky to see some of that here.

Yep, and they lost not only Strahan to retirement but also perhaps their best DE to injury in Osi Umenyiora. On top of that they lost at least two other starters, starting LB Kawika Mitchell and S Gibril Wilson.

[bloodsunday]

Spags would be the best choice. Spags greatest strength? D Line. Broncos greatest weakness? D Line. It's a match made in heaven.

That's what makes this the worst pick! IMO.

He won't have the same ingredients as when he made his masterpiece -- the 2007 Giants D. It would be a disaster. By the time we acquired the DL it takes to make his scheme work, we'd be out of money and patience, particularly since quality DL are the toughest asset to get in the NFL.

We need somebody like Coyer (for either HC or DC) that can take our left overs and make a master piece OF HIS OWN (aka our 2005 D)! Does anybody remember what Coyer did with "the Browncos", Nick Fergueson, and Ian Gold. My god the man was a genius.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005_Denver_Broncos_season#2005_team_roster

[sirhcyennek81]

Well per NFL rules doesnt he have to interview some minority candidates, even if he knows who he is going to hire?

:Broncos:

[bloodsunday]

Well per NFL rules doesnt he have to interview some minority candidates, even if he knows who he is going to hire?

:Broncos:

Yes he's already committed to interviewing Raheem Morris. I think he's a great pick, but also a minority.

[Rohirrim]

That's what makes this the worst pick! IMO.

He won't have the same ingredients as when he made his masterpiece -- the 2007 Giants D. It would be a disaster. By the time we acquired the DL it takes to make his scheme work, we'd be out of money and patience, particularly since quality DL are the toughest asset to get in the NFL.

We need somebody like Coyer (for either HC or DC) that can take our left overs and make a master piece OF HIS OWN (aka our 2005 D)! Does anybody remember what Coyer did with "the Browncos", Nick Fergueson, and Ian Gold. My god the man was a genius.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2005_Denver_Broncos_season#2005_team_roster

I always did like Coyer. And that pipe. The pipe was cool. 8')

But Spags might be great to have in the draft room this April. He obviously has an eye for the Dline. I never agree that coaches simply fall into a single box, like 3/4 coach, or Tampa 2 coach. I suppose some do. They're locked into their scheme. Some can make the best of what they're given. I honestly don't know which one Spags is.

[MechanicalBull]

Moss and Dumervil primarily I would guess.

Spagnuolo and Waufle did some impressive things with the second tier of DLs behind Strahan, we'd be real lucky to see some of that here.

Spags has been my choice all along and I've said a few times on here I wouldn't mind if he brought over Waufle and made him DC. Forget about Strahan just look at what they have done with Osi, Tuck, Alford, Robbins, Cofield, and so on.

If we could get even half the pressure that those guys get I'd be happy.

[Broncoman13]

Raheem Morris has never been a DC in the NFL, do you all really think he is ready to be a HC? Who do you think he would bring in as his DC?

[theAPAOps5]

I think Raheem Morris is the Rooney candidate. I don't think Bowlen will go with him nor McDaniels. Especially with what Pioli said about him not being ready.

[Bronco LB 59]

Raheem Morris has never been a DC in the NFL, do you all really think he is ready to be a HC? Who do you think he would bring in as his DC?

Andy Reid, Tony Sparano and John Harbaugh made the jump without coordinator experience.

[Steve Sewell]

I don't think it'd be too big an obstacle. If he's interested and Bowlen wants him they'll have a handshake agreement in place

This is exactly how the Shanahan hire went down if anyone remembers. They had an agreement in place prior to the SB that he won as OC of the Niners.

[bloodsunday]

But Spags might be great to have in the draft room this April. He obviously has an eye for the Dline. I never agree that coaches simply fall into a single box, like 3/4 coach, or Tampa 2 coach. I suppose some do. They're locked into their scheme. Some can make the best of what they're given. I honestly don't know which one Spags is.

If Spags is the best guy for the job (per the people who know), then I'll support it. If I were Bowlen I'd want to know how he can take the talent we have on D and win NOW. But speculation right now centers on the fact that he currently runs a great D in NY. And I don't think he can do the same with the talent we currently have. And I don't think its easy to get 3 or 4 quality DL in one offseason. If it were that easy, they wouldn't be the toughest commodities to find in the NFL.

[Steve Sewell]

Raheem Morris has never been a DC in the NFL, do you all really think he is ready to be a HC? Who do you think he would bring in as his DC?

Morris seems like a MASSIVE reach. A DC in Manhattan, KS for a ****ty college team 2 years ago to the HC of one of the best franchises in the NFL? I don't think so. But I've been shocked before so I wouldn't completely rule it out.

[bloodsunday]

Raheem Morris has never been a DC in the NFL, do you all really think he is ready to be a HC? Who do you think he would bring in as his DC?

Tomlin was a DC for 1 year. Sometimes you have to think outside the box.

[bloodsunday]

I think Raheem Morris is the Rooney candidate. I don't think Bowlen will go with him nor McDaniels. Especially with what Pioli said about him not being ready.

I know Bowlen would prefer a young-er HC. Not sure if that means it will be McDaniels or Morris.

[Rohirrim]

If Spags is the best guy for the job (per the people who know), then I'll support it. If I were Bowlen I'd want to know how he can take the talent we have on D and win NOW. But speculation right now centers on the fact that he currently runs a great D in NY. And I don't think he can do the same with the talent we currently have. And I don't think its easy to get 3 or 4 quality DL in one offseason. If it were that easy, they wouldn't be the toughest commodities to find in the NFL.

But Denver has tried three different schemes in three years. It's been a mess. Slotwitz is a bust when it comes to the Dline. I'm not sure we really know what we've got here. Maybe a really good defensive coach can come in and put something together out of some, if not all, of the pieces we have.

[bloodsunday]

But Denver has tried three different schemes in three years. It's been a mess. Slotwitz is a bust when it comes to the Dline. I'm not sure we really know what we've got here. Maybe a really good defensive coach can come in and put something together out of some, if not all, of the pieces we have.

I think you and I are in agreement. We need to have a long term plan to commit to a scheme so we can draft, and sign FA to build a quality D. I think just about any quality DC could do this.

BUT I also think we need a transition plan that challenges the guys creativity. We need to take the guy's we have now (plus our offseason changes) and make the current group of players perform to a level of at least middle of the pack BY NEXT SEASON. It can be done. Coyer proved it before Shanny pulled the plug on him.

If we find a guy that can do both -- sign him tomorrow.

[lex]

I know Bowlen would prefer a young-er HC. Not sure if that means it will be McDaniels or Morris.

Is that really true? He was quoted as saying that originally but in his presser, he said he had no fixed idea in mind. Plus, why even bring Spags in if its an issue?

[bloodsunday]

Is that really true? He was quoted as saying that originally but in his presser, he said he had no fixed idea in mind. Plus, why even bring Spags in if its an issue?

That's what guys "in the know" like Schefter are reporting. It make sense to me. Bowlen wants a coach for a long time.

That said, it's a preference, which means nothing is guaranteed.

I think he is interviewing "Spags" primarily because a) he's hot and its obvious b) this maybe his only shot if NYG go deep in the playoffs and c) he wants to give the impression the process is underway.

None of those are reasons that he would necessarily hire him or not, just why I think the interview came together quickly.

FYI this interview is said to be "informal" because Spags is under such demand in the bye week.

[lex]

That's what guys "in the know" like Schefter are reporting. It make sense to me. Bowlen wants a coach for a long time.

That said, it's a preference, which means nothing is guaranteed.

I think he is interviewing "Spags" primarily because a) he's hot and its obvious b) this maybe his only shot if NYG go deep in the playoffs and c) he wants to give the impression the process is underway.

None of those are reasons that he would necessarily hire him or not, just why I think the interview came together quickly.

FYI this interview is said to be "informal" because Spags is under such demand in the bye week.

Well, lets be honest here. A bird in the hand is worth more than one in the bush and unlike Morris, Spags does have a body of work as a defensive coordinator...possibly as good as it gets. Meanwhile Morris has yet to be a DC. So if youre picking a guy who can oversee fixing the defense, who would you want? I realize Morris is good at motivating guys but players like playing for Spags too. Tomlin, Morris' mentor, went to a team that was already solid on defense. I see the value in what youre saying about the young guys. But I think the over arching theme should be finding a guy who can be the architect of rebuilding the defense which encompasses more than motivating players.

[broncswin]

I'd rather Raheem Morris - an up and coming young guy with a lot to prove. A motivator.

Not a big fan of Spagnuolo because the "hottest assistant for the best team" is usually a disaster. It's kinda like the Heisman Trophy (aka "The Best Player on the Best Team Award"). Never works out for the next team. See every New England or Pittsburgh assistant that ever left.

I agree there have been some disasterous assistant to head coach situations, but look at the teams those assistants were headed to. We have a dynamite offense, spags would be truely focused on the D. We keep the assistant O staff in place and watch out!!:thumbsup:

[oubronco]

ENGLEWOOD — Broncos owner Pat Bowlen said the process of finding a new coach would begin quickly with the arrival of the new year Thursday.
He meant what he said.
The Broncos moved quickly on New Year's Day, locking up interviews with two NFL assistants, asking permission for another, as well as making a preliminary move to contact University of Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops.
Bowlen could not be reached for comment on any of the day's events.
But the Broncos have finalized meetings with New York Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo and newly named Tampa Bay defensive coordinator and former secondary coach Raheem Morris.
Spagnuolo will be the first to interview for the Broncos job since Mike Shanahan was fired Tuesday, with a meeting set for Saturday with Broncos officials.
Morris, who Buccaneers coach Jon Gruden recently promoted to replace the departed Monte Kiffin to run Tampa Bay's defense, will meet with the Broncos on Monday.
Also Thursday, the Broncos made preliminary moves toward Stoops, whose team will play Jan. 8 in the Bowl Championship Series title game in Miami, and asked for permission to speak with New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.
In his lone public appearance since Shanahan's firing, Bowlen continued to express the Broncos' job would be attractive to prospective coaches because of the offensive performance this season and the youth of the roster, saying, "This job . . . this is a very highly thought-of job and I expect to get a very good head coach. . . . I want him to be a 10 in every area."
That appears to be the case in securing an interview with Spagnuolo, who will be the first in line for the Broncos because of rules regarding assistant coaches with teams in the playoffs. When interviewing a coach with a team that has a first-round bye, as the Giants do, the Broncos are facing a Sunday deadline.
After that, assistants with playoff teams can only be interviewed after their teams are knocked out of the playoffs or in the week immediately after the conference championship games if their teams advance to the Super Bowl.
Because of that Sunday deadline, the Broncos aren't expected to interview Tennessee Titans defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz - the Titans have a bye this weekend so he will not be in the first wave of their interviews.
But Spagnuolo is a popular target around the league. He also is scheduled to interview with the New York Jets on Saturday and the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns already had asked for, and received, permission to interview Spagnuolo at some point.
But he moved the Broncos interview to Saturday evening despite the team being the last one of the four to contact him. Because of the interview with the Jets and the Giants' preparations for their playoff game in a little more than a week, the Broncos will interview Spagnuolo in the New York area.
The Redskins made a significant push to get Spagnuolo after the Giants' Super Bowl win against the previously undefeated Patriots in February, with Redskins owner Daniel Snyder bringing Spagnuolo to his estate for two days.
But Spagnuolo elected to stay with the Giants.
Giants players routinely have lauded Spagnuolo's preparation and the Giants finished fifth in defense during the regular season despite defensive end Michael Strahan's retirement and the loss of defensive end Osi Umenyiora to a season-ending injury early in the year.
Morris just was promoted by the Buccaneers to replace Kiffin, the team's longtime defensive coordinator who left to coach with his son Lane at the University of Tennessee.
A personality many in the league say people just gravitate to, Morris will be a popular head coaching candidate, several general managers predict, in the coming years if he is not hired by the Broncos. The Buccaneers were second in the NFC against the pass this season and fourth in the league.
For his part, Stoops, who visited Broncos training camp during the summer with his coaching staff, is a known quantity to Bowlen. But his contract at the football powerhouse averages about $3 million a year, and he will earn $6 million this year because of a $3 million bonus for staying at the school 10 seasons that kicked in on New Year's Day.
Bowlen is an Oklahoma graduate and he did spend some time with Stoops during the visit in August. The Broncos had not had any direct contact with Stoops as of Thursday, but they were making overtures to his representatives.
It is unlikely Stoops, who also was considered for the Redskins job last year, would consider an interview before his team faces Florida at Dolphin Stadium.
The Broncos also have sent a letter to the Patriots, as required by league rules, formally seeking permission to talk with McDaniels, but they had not received an answer from Patriots officials as of Thursday night.
The Broncos also have discussed Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier and could seek permission to speak with him once he is available to interview. The Vikings play host to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday in an NFC wild- card game.
Because of the league's Rooney Rule, the Broncos have to interview at least one minority candidate for the job and the league would prefer more than one is considered.
<!-- End story_body -->

[lex]

ENGLEWOOD — Broncos owner Pat Bowlen said the process of finding a new coach would begin quickly with the arrival of the new year Thursday.
He meant what he said.
The Broncos moved quickly on New Year's Day, locking up interviews with two NFL assistants, asking permission for another, as well as making a preliminary move to contact University of Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops.
Bowlen could not be reached for comment on any of the day's events.
But the Broncos have finalized meetings with New York Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo and newly named Tampa Bay defensive coordinator and former secondary coach Raheem Morris.
Spagnuolo will be the first to interview for the Broncos job since Mike Shanahan was fired Tuesday, with a meeting set for Saturday with Broncos officials.
Morris, who Buccaneers coach Jon Gruden recently promoted to replace the departed Monte Kiffin to run Tampa Bay's defense, will meet with the Broncos on Monday.
Also Thursday, the Broncos made preliminary moves toward Stoops, whose team will play Jan. 8 in the Bowl Championship Series title game in Miami, and asked for permission to speak with New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.
In his lone public appearance since Shanahan's firing, Bowlen continued to express the Broncos' job would be attractive to prospective coaches because of the offensive performance this season and the youth of the roster, saying, "This job . . . this is a very highly thought-of job and I expect to get a very good head coach. . . . I want him to be a 10 in every area."
That appears to be the case in securing an interview with Spagnuolo, who will be the first in line for the Broncos because of rules regarding assistant coaches with teams in the playoffs. When interviewing a coach with a team that has a first-round bye, as the Giants do, the Broncos are facing a Sunday deadline.
After that, assistants with playoff teams can only be interviewed after their teams are knocked out of the playoffs or in the week immediately after the conference championship games if their teams advance to the Super Bowl.
Because of that Sunday deadline, the Broncos aren't expected to interview Tennessee Titans defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz - the Titans have a bye this weekend so he will not be in the first wave of their interviews.
But Spagnuolo is a popular target around the league. He also is scheduled to interview with the New York Jets on Saturday and the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns already had asked for, and received, permission to interview Spagnuolo at some point.
But he moved the Broncos interview to Saturday evening despite the team being the last one of the four to contact him. Because of the interview with the Jets and the Giants' preparations for their playoff game in a little more than a week, the Broncos will interview Spagnuolo in the New York area.
The Redskins made a significant push to get Spagnuolo after the Giants' Super Bowl win against the previously undefeated Patriots in February, with Redskins owner Daniel Snyder bringing Spagnuolo to his estate for two days.
But Spagnuolo elected to stay with the Giants.
Giants players routinely have lauded Spagnuolo's preparation and the Giants finished fifth in defense during the regular season despite defensive end Michael Strahan's retirement and the loss of defensive end Osi Umenyiora to a season-ending injury early in the year.
Morris just was promoted by the Buccaneers to replace Kiffin, the team's longtime defensive coordinator who left to coach with his son Lane at the University of Tennessee.
A personality many in the league say people just gravitate to, Morris will be a popular head coaching candidate, several general managers predict, in the coming years if he is not hired by the Broncos. The Buccaneers were second in the NFC against the pass this season and fourth in the league.
For his part, Stoops, who visited Broncos training camp during the summer with his coaching staff, is a known quantity to Bowlen. But his contract at the football powerhouse averages about $3 million a year, and he will earn $6 million this year because of a $3 million bonus for staying at the school 10 seasons that kicked in on New Year's Day.
Bowlen is an Oklahoma graduate and he did spend some time with Stoops during the visit in August. The Broncos had not had any direct contact with Stoops as of Thursday, but they were making overtures to his representatives.
It is unlikely Stoops, who also was considered for the Redskins job last year, would consider an interview before his team faces Florida at Dolphin Stadium.
The Broncos also have sent a letter to the Patriots, as required by league rules, formally seeking permission to talk with McDaniels, but they had not received an answer from Patriots officials as of Thursday night.
The Broncos also have discussed Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier and could seek permission to speak with him once he is available to interview. The Vikings play host to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday in an NFC wild- card game.
Because of the league's Rooney Rule, the Broncos have to interview at least one minority candidate for the job and the league would prefer more than one is considered.
<!-- End story_body -->

Anyone else pleased to see what Ive underlined?

[Bronx33]

Anyone else pleased to see what Ive underlined?

yep it seems hes already said no to some of the other visits.

[oubronco]

Anyone else pleased to see what Ive underlined?

yea that was intriging I wouldn't have any objections to Spags

[Rohirrim]

Anyone else pleased to see what Ive underlined?

I told ya, the Broncos' job is the number one job out there.

[lex]

OK, so he has a 1 week window to interview? Can he accept any time during the playoffs? Can the Broncos make an offer?

[socalorado]

OK, so he has a 1 week window to interview? Can he accept any time during the playoffs? Can the Broncos make an offer?

I think he has to wait another week officially.

[Steve Sewell]

The Broncos job is infinitely more attractive than the other three.

[lex]

I told ya, the Broncos' job is the number one job out there.

Its fairly well known...or at least it should be. Last summer there was a poll of the best owners to work for (coaches were polled) and Pat was top 3. Its a team with great tradition, a great fan base, and a great owner. Whats not to like. Plus the media crush isnt as bad even though you have to tolerate idiots like Kizla, Page and Mulletstrong.

[lex]

The Broncos job is infinitely more attractive than the other three.

Its top 5. Different coaches may have different preferences but Denver is way up there. Its SO good that when Denver wants to interveiw you, you almost have to listen. Bowlen is looking for someone good and he is going to give them the optimum opportunity to do well.

[Steve Prefontaine]

ENGLEWOOD — Broncos owner Pat Bowlen said the process of finding a new coach would begin quickly with the arrival of the new year Thursday.
He meant what he said.
The Broncos moved quickly on New Year's Day, locking up interviews with two NFL assistants, asking permission for another, as well as making a preliminary move to contact University of Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops.
Bowlen could not be reached for comment on any of the day's events.
But the Broncos have finalized meetings with New York Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo and newly named Tampa Bay defensive coordinator and former secondary coach Raheem Morris.
Spagnuolo will be the first to interview for the Broncos job since Mike Shanahan was fired Tuesday, with a meeting set for Saturday with Broncos officials.
Morris, who Buccaneers coach Jon Gruden recently promoted to replace the departed Monte Kiffin to run Tampa Bay's defense, will meet with the Broncos on Monday.
Also Thursday, the Broncos made preliminary moves toward Stoops, whose team will play Jan. 8 in the Bowl Championship Series title game in Miami, and asked for permission to speak with New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.
In his lone public appearance since Shanahan's firing, Bowlen continued to express the Broncos' job would be attractive to prospective coaches because of the offensive performance this season and the youth of the roster, saying, "This job . . . this is a very highly thought-of job and I expect to get a very good head coach. . . . I want him to be a 10 in every area."
That appears to be the case in securing an interview with Spagnuolo, who will be the first in line for the Broncos because of rules regarding assistant coaches with teams in the playoffs. When interviewing a coach with a team that has a first-round bye, as the Giants do, the Broncos are facing a Sunday deadline.
After that, assistants with playoff teams can only be interviewed after their teams are knocked out of the playoffs or in the week immediately after the conference championship games if their teams advance to the Super Bowl.
Because of that Sunday deadline, the Broncos aren't expected to interview Tennessee Titans defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz - the Titans have a bye this weekend so he will not be in the first wave of their interviews.
But Spagnuolo is a popular target around the league. He also is scheduled to interview with the New York Jets on Saturday and the Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns already had asked for, and received, permission to interview Spagnuolo at some point.
But he moved the Broncos interview to Saturday evening despite the team being the last one of the four to contact him. Because of the interview with the Jets and the Giants' preparations for their playoff game in a little more than a week, the Broncos will interview Spagnuolo in the New York area.
The Redskins made a significant push to get Spagnuolo after the Giants' Super Bowl win against the previously undefeated Patriots in February, with Redskins owner Daniel Snyder bringing Spagnuolo to his estate for two days.
But Spagnuolo elected to stay with the Giants.
Giants players routinely have lauded Spagnuolo's preparation and the Giants finished fifth in defense during the regular season despite defensive end Michael Strahan's retirement and the loss of defensive end Osi Umenyiora to a season-ending injury early in the year.
Morris just was promoted by the Buccaneers to replace Kiffin, the team's longtime defensive coordinator who left to coach with his son Lane at the University of Tennessee.
A personality many in the league say people just gravitate to, Morris will be a popular head coaching candidate, several general managers predict, in the coming years if he is not hired by the Broncos. The Buccaneers were second in the NFC against the pass this season and fourth in the league.
For his part, Stoops, who visited Broncos training camp during the summer with his coaching staff, is a known quantity to Bowlen. But his contract at the football powerhouse averages about $3 million a year, and he will earn $6 million this year because of a $3 million bonus for staying at the school 10 seasons that kicked in on New Year's Day.
Bowlen is an Oklahoma graduate and he did spend some time with Stoops during the visit in August. The Broncos had not had any direct contact with Stoops as of Thursday, but they were making overtures to his representatives.
It is unlikely Stoops, who also was considered for the Redskins job last year, would consider an interview before his team faces Florida at Dolphin Stadium.
The Broncos also have sent a letter to the Patriots, as required by league rules, formally seeking permission to talk with McDaniels, but they had not received an answer from Patriots officials as of Thursday night.
The Broncos also have discussed Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier and could seek permission to speak with him once he is available to interview. The Vikings play host to the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday in an NFC wild- card game.
Because of the league's Rooney Rule, the Broncos have to interview at least one minority candidate for the job and the league would prefer more than one is considered.
<!-- End story_body -->
Haha. Chucky would be so piiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiised if they lost Morris too.

He'd probably get ****ty drunk and call Jake to see if he would be interested in coming back to run the defense.

[MechanicalBull]

Anyone else pleased to see what Ive underlined?

It shows that he is at the very least pretty interested in the position and wants to listen to what Bowlen has to say.

You can always just make a hand shake agreement with him and iron out the details after the Giants are done playing football if Bowlen were to go ahead and hire him.

[baja]

I want this Morris kid.

[lex]

It shows that he is at the very least pretty interested in the position and wants to listen to what Bowlen has to say.

You can always just make a hand shake agreement with him and iron out the details after the Giants are done playing football if Bowlen were to go ahead and hire him.

That would be great. I have a feeling he will be the guy.

[Play2win]

When was the last offseason that we didn't have a major Coach/Coordinator/Head Coach fired or let go?

[BBB]

I've been on the Spags bandwagon for awhile now. We have the offense so let Bates keep that and now get the defense in shape.

Bring him in as HC and have him bring over Mike Waufle(Giants DL coach) as our DC.

Mike Waufle would be the #1 candidate to take over for Spags if he does leave the Giants except, and it's a big exception:

He has no interest in becoming a coordinator or even leaving the Giants. He was there long before Spags and will be there after. Sorry to burst the bubble.

[Broncojef]

Morris is nothing more than checking a box, nice guy eventually may be HC worthy but right now Spaguolo is the prize and I think Pat will have a deal announced shortly after the Giants are knocked out of SB contention. Spagnuolo knows how to evaluate Defensive Linemen and what it takes to build a winner on that side of the ball, match that up with an up and coming offense and we will rock shortly....very exciting times.

[lex]

Mike Waufle would be the #1 candidate to take over for Spags if he does leave the Giants except, and it's a big exception:

He has no interest in becoming a coordinator or even leaving the Giants. He was there long before Spags and will be there after. Sorry to burst the bubble.

I can see Sean McDermott coming with him from Philly.

[MechanicalBull]

I can see Sean McDermott coming with him from Philly.

I'd take McDermott and I believe he coached the LBs last year before going back to the secondary.

[CoBear23]

This is the chance to see if Bowlen is owner that I think he is and the rest of League regards him as. Mike Shanahan was destined to be the Broncos coach and the plan was set in motion years before it happened. Give Bowlen credit though he spotted talent, built a relationship, and seized the opportunity.
Now we see if he can capture that again from a list of Broncos outsiders.

Spagnuolo has to be at the top of the list, he's not young at 49 but is coming into the Prime of his coaching career like Shanny was when he was hired at 42, both are brillant at their respective side and both have/had rings.

Spag's will never be considered the innovator Shanny was but he doesn't have to be. Defense doesn't need to be cutting edge to be effective, simple things like rushing the passer and stopping the run are the cornerstone of great D's. Spagnuolo understands what it takes to get that done in terms of nessecary personnel types, schemes, consistency and the ability to get player's to buy in to the system.

Everything I've seen and read makes it clear that the Giants defensive players love playing and play hard for Spag's. Like Mike he's a coach who makes you believe you're better than you are, but is not afraid to be perfectly honest about where you stand. Where he and Shanny seemed to differ is that he's willing to work with the players on changes to what he's doing as a coach, within reason at least.

If Spag's gets hired, the first order of business and what IMO would be the best decision as far the offense goes is to keep Bates as QB coach and more importantly play caller. Kept intact this offense could be spectacular for a long time. Cutler and CO will continue to grow and the if they can limit red-zone mistakes will put up 30+ every game not 3 out of 5. Don't forget that Tony Dungy and Bill Belichick we're DC's before there Indy and NE days two of the best offenses of the last ten years. So it's not unprecedented for new HC's with a defensive background to have a elite offense given the right personnel both on and off the field is in place.

There are lots of good candidates for this job and Bowlen knows it "I expect him to come in and win a Super Bowl...be a 10 on every level." I do trust Pat Bowlen and believe that no matter who he chooses I will be at the worst content with the decision. Spagnuolo seems in my eyes at least to be exactly what this team needs. A coach who is proven on defense, not going to rock the boat on offense, and knows what it takes to win.

I'm do not expect him to come in and win it all in year one.

I do expect to see improvement on both sides of the ball and some nastiness return to our D. Oh and if he's hired I do expect a Lombardi trophy sitting in Dove Valley after year 2:)

[BBB]

Coaches can not accept job offers while their teams are still alive. It could be a handshake agreement, but not an official offer.

You guys do know that coaches can be blocked from accepting another subordinate role with another team, right? You can't block a guy from becoming a head coach, but according to recent articles I've read (I'll link one below) a head coach can block a position coach from leaving to become a coordinator.

Here's that link: http://www.signonsandiego.com/sports/sullivan/20070124-9999-1s24sullivan.html

[go_broncos]

I want this Morris kid.

It is a big jump from position coach to HC.

It will be very risky.

Safe option is to get Spagnuolo.

[titan]

I like Spagnuolo. Jets could be the biggest competition. Broncos a better football situation but if he went with the Jets he wouldn't have to move his family. Hope he didn't just build a new house like Shanny.

[NFLBRONCO]

I like Spagnuolo. Jets could be the biggest competition. Broncos a better football situation but if he went with the Jets he wouldn't have to move his family. Hope he didn't just build a new house like Shanny.

Difference you pick

Deal with Favre or Cutler?

[baja]

Quote:
Originally Posted by baja
I want this Morris kid.

go_broncos It is a big jump from position coach to HC.

It will be very risky.

Safe option is to get Spagnuolo


Why I want Morris,

Quote:
A personality many in the league say people just gravitate to, Morris will be a popular head coaching candidate, several general managers predict, in the coming years if he is not hired by the Broncos.



He is a rising star in the mold of Shanahan. By all accounts he is a very astute defensive mind. Players will play lights out for him. There is some risk but that is true with whom ever is selected. I say make him head coach but have him focus mainly on the D and let the existing O staff continue. If he is what many football people think then we have the next Shanahan if not we have a season to find the 10 Bowlen is looking for. Given the O is ready to rock & roll and Morris looks like at a minimum exactly what we need running the D than I say lets roll the dice, there is big upside and small downside and we get to make a run this season.

Pat Bowlen said he wants a 10, this young man is the only candidate out there that has the potential to be a 10

[lex]

http://www.nj.com/giants/index.ssf/2009/01/report_broncos_now_in_mix_for.html

Denver Broncos are now in mix for New York Giants' Steve Spagnuolo
by Mike Garafolo/The Star-Ledger
Thursday January 01, 2009, 2:13 PM

Bill Kostroun/Associated Press
Denver has joined the list of teams interested in Giants' defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo (l.) and will meet with him on Saturday.Steve Spagnuolo was already in the running for a head-coaching job with the Jets, Lions and Browns. Now, he's a candidate for perhaps the most attractive opening on the market. The Giants' defensive coordinator will meet with the Broncos Saturday, a Denver team spokesman confirmed Thursday. A report on Foxsports.com indicated it will be a quick, "informal" interview because of the time constraints on Spagnuolo, who will meet with Jets officials earlier in the day. Spagnuolo was believed to be meeting with Detroit and Cleveland Thursday. Denver fired Mike Shanahan early this week after 14 years as coach. That created an intriguing opening for coaching candidates because the Broncos have plenty of talent on the roster and, unlike the Jets and Lions, they have a young franchise quarterback in Jay Cutler.

Cleveland has two young quarterbacks in Derek Anderson and Brady Quinn, though neither has been as successful as Cutler, who threw for 4,526 yards this season.


It looks like we have some conflicting information.

[fdf]

Cutler would probably appreciate another offensive-minded coach, but we need someone who has a clue what to do with the defense. If that person comes in (like a Raheem Morris) and keeps bolstering the offense at the same time, we'll be Super Bowl-bound faster than what people think...

After this year, I'm thinking that Cutler would kind of appreciate a defense. He put up a lot of points and didn't see much for it. Just an average defense puts us in the playoffs year after year.

[Broncojef]

After this year, I'm thinking that Cutler would kind of appreciate a defense. He put up a lot of points and didn't see much for it. Just an average defense puts us in the playoffs year after year.

Amen brother, Elway carried the team on his back and did amazing things for years, yet once he had the cast and other stars on the field he didn't even have to do alot to get his two rings.

[24champ]

After this year, I'm thinking that Cutler would kind of appreciate a defense. He put up a lot of points and didn't see much for it. Just an average defense puts us in the playoffs year after year.

Great then lets hire a DC that knows what the **** he is doing...as a Defensive Cordinator...not Head Coach just because he is great at DC with zero prior head coaching experience.

History shows that defensive minded head coaches that had zero experience as a Head Coach at any level hired on by an NFL team tend to fail. Bowlen should take that into consideration when interviewing him. It's one thing to run a defense and another to run a team. I get that Spags is a favorite, ESPN hacks like him and much in the same way that Mangini, Crennel, Nolan, were all hailed as great hires. What are they doing now? Looking for a job...

Let me throw in a couple more names Marvin Lewis, Dick Lebeau, Jim Mora Jr. etc. Then the last time the Broncos hired a Defensive minded coach with no prior head coaching experience lasted 2 seasons.

I would like to see a young offensive minded head coach and then completely clean house on the defensive side of the ball. Let a Defensive Cordinator do what he wants to do on defense, bring in his own guys and go from there.

[CoBear23]

Great then lets hire a DC that knows what the **** he is doing...as a Defensive Cordinator...not Head Coach just because he is great at DC with zero prior head coaching experience.

History shows that defensive minded head coaches that had zero experience as a Head Coach at any level hired on by an NFL team tend to fail. Bowlen should take that into consideration when interviewing him. It's one thing to run a defense and another to run a team. I get that Spags is a favorite, ESPN hacks like him and much in the same way that Mangini, Crennel, Nolan, were all hailed as great hires. What are they doing now? Looking for a job...

Let me throw in a couple more names Marvin Lewis, Dick Lebeau, Jim Mora Jr. etc. Then the last time the Broncos hired a Defensive minded coach with no prior head coaching experience lasted 2 seasons.

I would like to see a young offensive minded head coach and then completely clean house on the defensive side of the ball. Let a Defensive Cordinator do what he wants to do on defense, bring in his own guys and go from there.

History shows several DC who we're very successful as first time coaches. George Seifert won the Super Bowl his first year as head coach of the Niners after being their DC. What about Bill Parcells a DC with no head Coaching experience who won a Super Bowl in 3 years? It took Cowher a bit longer than 3 years but he had no HC experience when he left KC. Tony Dungy didn't win the SB in Tampa but they had a ton of success and improvement.

What makes you think that a young offensive minded coach would be anymore succesfull than say a DC in the prime of his coaching career, who bulit a championship caliber D for one team and pushed another defense over the hump to win a championship. A man like Spagnoulo.

I like Garrett and McDaniels, they remind me a lot of when Shanahan was a young OC for the Broncos. How well did his first head coaching gig go again?

Most first time head coaches don't work out regardless of which side they were coordinator. A new offensive head coach means a new scheme and delayed progression, bring in a defensive minded coach and keep in place Bates as QB coach and play-caller. We'd have continuity on offense and more importantly an emphasis on improving the defense that in turn will get the offense on the field more often and with better field position.

[Dark Helmet]

I'd like to see Parcells as GM as he is a team building master mind. Mangini would be a great defensive coach. I really don't like any of the HC candidates mentioned thus far but it's a hard decision to make as several haven't been in the publics eye. I'd love to see them pick up a great leader like Mike Tomlin.

[CoBear23]

I know Parcells has an opt-out clause if the team is sold but I find it hard to believe that he would leave that has shown so much improvement. I like Mangini also but don't see him as the right fit for the Broncos.

[Dark Helmet]

Here's a brief but interesting article on why Stoops might be a candidate.

http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/28466448/ (http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/28466448/)

[Jens1893]

Thing that puts me off about Morris the most is his age. If he was 5 years older it wouldn´t be an issue, but 32 is AWFULLY young for a HC.

[Drek]

Spag's will never be considered the innovator Shanny was but he doesn't have to be. Defense doesn't need to be cutting edge to be effective, simple things like rushing the passer and stopping the run are the cornerstone of great D's. Spagnuolo understands what it takes to get that done in terms of nessecary personnel types, schemes, consistency and the ability to get player's to buy in to the system.


Did you watch the Super Bowl last year?

His defensive line schemes had Justin Tuck, a 274 pound DE, playing DT most of the game and it made the Patriots OL, considered possibly the best in the league at the time, look like a bunch of scrubs.

Innovation isn't all on the offensive side of the ball. There are three DCs in the NFL who run a top tier 4-3 defense that isn't some form of the Tampa 2. Spagnuolo, his former boss Jim Johnson, and Jim Schwartz. Spagnuolo looks like the best of the bunch for a head coach.

http://www.nj.com/giants/index.ssf/2009/01/report_broncos_now_in_mix_for.html



It looks like we have some conflicting information.
I don't see where there is a conflict. He'd scheduled the other teams and the Broncos called at the 11th hour so he made sure to have time for them.

[Ratboy]

Morris is intriguing, but seems very inexperienced. I wish would could bring him in as a DC. I think Steve Spagnuolo is our best option.

[CoBear23]

Did you watch the Super Bowl last year?

His defensive line schemes had Justin Tuck, a 274 pound DE, playing DT most of the game and it made the Patriots OL, considered possibly the best in the league at the time, look like a bunch of scrubs.

Innovation isn't all on the offensive side of the ball. There are three DCs in the NFL who run a top tier 4-3 defense that isn't some form of the Tampa 2. Spagnuolo, his former boss Jim Johnson, and Jim Schwartz. Spagnuolo looks like the best of the bunch for a head coach.


I don't see where there is a conflict. He'd scheduled the other teams and the Broncos called at the 11th hour so he made sure to have time for them.

When I say innovator I mean coaches like Walsh with the west coast, Dungy with the Tampa Two, LeBeau and Belichick mastering the 3-4 and Shanahan with his zone blocking.

What Spag's did in the super bowl wasn't innovative, it was just smart coaching. A smart coach has a solid philosophy, finds ways to get the best players on the field, and will create mismatches with those players by making the right play call.

Spagnuolo is one hell of a smart coach, and to have a dominant defense thats what all you really need. Spag's knows the cornerstones of any great D is the ability to rush the passer and stop the run, why re-invent the wheel?

[elsid13]

Thing that puts me off about Morris the most is his age. If he was 5 years older it wouldn´t be an issue, but 32 is AWFULLY young for a HC.

Look at the bright side Popps would be more then willing to give him advice from his advance age and experience of watching football on TV

[lex]

Did you watch the Super Bowl last year?

His defensive line schemes had Justin Tuck, a 274 pound DE, playing DT most of the game and it made the Patriots OL, considered possibly the best in the league at the time, look like a bunch of scrubs.

Innovation isn't all on the offensive side of the ball. There are three DCs in the NFL who run a top tier 4-3 defense that isn't some form of the Tampa 2. Spagnuolo, his former boss Jim Johnson, and Jim Schwartz. Spagnuolo looks like the best of the bunch for a head coach.


I don't see where there is a conflict. He'd scheduled the other teams and the Broncos called at the 11th hour so he made sure to have time for them.

Another article made it sound like he pre-empted all the other openings.

[Punisher]

I would be absolutely DELIGHTED with this hire. I would do a happy dance.

http://beckyboop.files.worpress.com/2008/03/happy-dance.jpg

Oh hell yea T-Spagz HC for the broncos I'll join in that happy dance

[Drek]

When I say innovator I mean coaches like Walsh with the west coast, Dungy with the Tampa Two, LeBeau and Belichick mastering the 3-4 and Shanahan with his zone blocking.

What Spag's did in the super bowl wasn't innovative, it was just smart coaching. A smart coach has a solid philosophy, finds ways to get the best players on the field, and will create mismatches with those players by making the right play call.

Spagnuolo is one hell of a smart coach, and to have a dominant defense thats what all you really need. Spag's knows the cornerstones of any great D is the ability to rush the passer and stop the run, why re-invent the wheel?

LeBeau and Walsh belong on that list. Dungy largely just let Kiffin run his Tampa 2 and added to it, and Bellicheck is a pretty direct disciple of Bill Parcells' 3-4 school of thought. He's added new wrinkles, but that is basically the same thing Shanahan did with Walsh's west coast offense.

And Shanahan didn't innovate or even install our ZBS, Alex Gibbs had the most to do with that, Turner probably second. Shanahan was just willing to let them implement some good ideas.

What Spagnuolo did with the Giants front seven the last few years is on par with what Shanahan did to the WCO in his time here, or Bellicheck did to Parcells' 3-4 front. He's created a new step forward in how 4-3 defenses can create confusion and QB pressure while still being stout against the run, and it doesn't require an 8th man in the box every single down.

[lex]

LeBeau and Walsh belong on that list. Dungy largely just let Kiffin run his Tampa 2 and added to it, and Bellicheck is a pretty direct disciple of Bill Parcells' 3-4 school of thought. He's added new wrinkles, but that is basically the same thing Shanahan did with Walsh's west coast offense.

And Shanahan didn't innovate or even install our ZBS, Alex Gibbs had the most to do with that, Turner probably second. Shanahan was just willing to let them implement some good ideas.

What Spagnuolo did with the Giants front seven the last few years is on par with what Shanahan did to the WCO in his time here, or Bellicheck did to Parcells' 3-4 front. He's created a new step forward in how 4-3 defenses can create confusion and QB pressure while still being stout against the run, and it doesn't require an 8th man in the box every single down.

I thought Belichick was more of a disciple of Joe Colliers 3-4. Belichick was on Denver's staff in the 70s, no?

[CoBear23]

LeBeau and Walsh belong on that list. Dungy largely just let Kiffin run his Tampa 2 and added to it, and Bellicheck is a pretty direct disciple of Bill Parcells' 3-4 school of thought. He's added new wrinkles, but that is basically the same thing Shanahan did with Walsh's west coast offense.

And Shanahan didn't innovate or even install our ZBS, Alex Gibbs had the most to do with that, Turner probably second. Shanahan was just willing to let them implement some good ideas.

What Spagnuolo did with the Giants front seven the last few years is on par with what Shanahan did to the WCO in his time here, or Bellicheck did to Parcells' 3-4 front. He's created a new step forward in how 4-3 defenses can create confusion and QB pressure while still being stout against the run, and it doesn't require an 8th man in the box every single down.

I know that what Belichick and Shanahan did we're modeled after Walsh and Parcell's but then again Walsh took the west coast from Paul Brown who used in Cleveland when he was coaching. We could sit here and BS all day about which coach brought what to pre-eminence or master someone's scheme.

IMO Spagnuolo is not gonna be the guy who introduces a "new" defense that becomes the rage across the NFL. What he does is indeed brilliant but unless you have some specific examples of what there doing so different than any other 4-3 defense except be the best at utilizing their personnel in the right groupings along with timely play calling. I just don't see him as an innovator of something new. He's a great coach and I want him to be our coach. Defense is something that doesn't need to over-thought, get some nasty mean dudes to rush the passer, commit to stopping the run. There are only so many ways to get that done and Spag's has seemed to master em'all

[CEH]

Did you watch the Super Bowl last year?

His defensive line schemes had Justin Tuck, a 274 pound DE, playing DT most of the game and it made the Patriots OL, considered possibly the best in the league at the time, look like a bunch of scrubs.

Innovation isn't all on the offensive side of the ball. There are three DCs in the NFL who run a top tier 4-3 defense that isn't some form of the Tampa 2. Spagnuolo, his former boss Jim Johnson, and Jim Schwartz. Spagnuolo looks like the best of the bunch for a head coach.


I don't see where there is a conflict. He'd scheduled the other teams and the Broncos called at the 11th hour so he made sure to have time for them.

I like Spags and think he may be a good candidate but we did the exact same thing in Indy last year dressing DEs and playing them at DT. Maybe Spags copied Bates/Slovick. Bottomline is talent wins.

For every Belicheck or Cowher there's a Wandstat or Crennell. Hope Bowlen picks the former

1 division title in 10 years is way below average. Is it a coincidence the only playoff game we won was when we won the division. Great defenses travel but great offenses sometimes don't. We need to get back to winning at home and winning the division.

[HEAV]

Steve Spagnuolo and Josh McDaniels are the "clear frontrunners" to be Denver's next head coach, according to the National Football Post's Mike Lombardi.

Lombardi worked in the Broncos' organization in 2007 and likely has kept ties with members of the front office. He notes that it makes "too much sense" for Denver to hire a defensive-minded coach and maintain most of its offensive staff. That would appear to make Spagnuolo owner Pat Bowlen's top choice.
Source: National Football Post

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2009/01/notes-from-lombardi/

-----------------


Can you imagine seeing a pass rush again! Also a team that tackles!

[Br0nc0Buster]

Steve Spagnuolo and Josh McDaniels are the "clear frontrunners" to be Denver's next head coach, according to the National Football Post's Mike Lombardi.

Lombardi worked in the Broncos' organization in 2007 and likely has kept ties with members of the front office. He notes that it makes "too much sense" for Denver to hire a defensive-minded coach and maintain most of its offensive staff. That would appear to make Spagnuolo owner Pat Bowlen's top choice.
Source: National Football Post

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2009/01/notes-from-lombardi/

-----------------


Can you imagine seeing a pass rush again! Also a team that tackles!

Could Spags get anything out of Crowder and Moss you think?

[PRBronco]

Steve Spagnuolo and Josh McDaniels are the "clear frontrunners" to be Denver's next head coach, according to the National Football Post's Mike Lombardi.

Lombardi worked in the Broncos' organization in 2007 and likely has kept ties with members of the front office. He notes that it makes "too much sense" for Denver to hire a defensive-minded coach and maintain most of its offensive staff. That would appear to make Spagnuolo owner Pat Bowlen's top choice.Source: National Football Post

http://www.nationalfootballpost.com/2009/01/notes-from-lombardi/

-----------------


Can you imagine seeing a pass rush again! Also a team that tackles!

Am I retarded or are those sentences way confusing?

Either way I would be giddy if we got Spags. I bet he could even get production out of crowder and moss!

[theAPAOps5]

Could Spags get anything out of Crowder and Moss you think?

Yeah OUT of town....... Just kidding, sort of

[SpringStein]

1 division title in 10 years is way below average.

never mind :)

[HEAV]

Could Spags get anything out of Crowder and Moss you think?


Crowder just needs a fire lit under his ass. He seems lazy and just happy to be on the team (even in street clothes).

Moss I feel is a major project, he was raw, used his speed in college and didn't need moves or leverage, now in the NFL his rush is easy to block. Plus he is still trying to build his body.

[Drek]

Could Spags get anything out of Crowder and Moss you think?

I think Moss is exactly the kind of guy Spagnuolo likes for DE.

The only issue is if Moss can stay healthy. At this point, after seeing the mess perpetrated on our defense with how slow we were to let guys like Woodyard, Larsen, and Barrett get into the lineup and how quickly they were tugged back out when underachieving veterans were healthy, I have zero faith in any defensive roster decisions in '08.

For all we know Moss could've had a 15 sack season that Slowik cock blocked. Lord knows he got a hell of a lot of regression out of Dumervil.

[elsid13]

Crowder just needs a fire lit under his ass. He seems lazy and just happy to be on the team (even in street clothes).

Moss I feel is a major project, he was raw, used his speed in college and didn't need moves or leverage, now in the NFL his rush is easy to block. Plus he is still trying to build his body.

Why are you making internet rumors up? Do have any real evidence that Crowder is "lazy", beside watching him on TV?

[24champ]

History shows several DC who've we're very successful as first time coaches. George Seifert won the Super Bowl his first years as head coach of the Niners after being their DC. What about Bill Parcells a DC with no head Coaching experience who won a Super Bowl in 3 years. It took Cowher a bit longer than 3 years but he had no HC experience when he left KC. Tony Dungy didn't win the SB in Tampa but they had a ton of success and improvement.


George Seifert...really? He was given a Dynasty team from Bill Walsh besides that he got his ass beat by the Cowboys plenty of times. Took Cowher 14 years, Dungy got dumped in TB because he couldn't get them over the hump...If Bowlen doesn't have the patience after 10 years of winning 2 Super Bowls and one AFC Championship game appearance...then he isn't going to have much patience for the next coach. Just take a look at what he did to Wade Phillips, lasted two seasons...boom! Got ****canned. He wants to win now and I don't think Spags is the answer everyone is making him out to be. Even Bill Belichick *****ing sucked hindtit in Cleveland his first go around.

We might as well go get Cowher, at least I know he is a proven coach. Spags is just the latest hottest assistant with zero experience at HC that I think is in the mold of Mangini, Crennel, Marvin Lewis etc. All won Super Bowls as DC but never did anything special at Head Coach.

What makes you think that a young offensive minded coach would be anymore succesfull than say a DC in the prime of his coaching career, who bulit a championship caliber D for one team and pushed another defense over the hump to win a championship. A man like Spagnoulo.

This team was number 2 in the league in total offense, but our redzone plays sucked. 16th in the NFL in scoring? Say what? I like Jeremy Bates, but someone else needs to offer a different perspective for Cutler to develop. Even Bowlen recognizes this echoing the same sentiments in statements to the press when asked what he was looking for in a new Head Coach.

A new offensive head coach means a new scheme and delayed progression, bring in a defensive minded coach and keep in place Bates as QB coach and play-caller.

Not necessarily, it's worked out before for this franchise. Defensive minded coach for Defensive coordinator and let him bring his own defensive staff in.

[CoBear23]

A.L.F my post that you so thourghly broke down was just to point out that while there have been alot of DC's who weren't succesful the first time around a HC. There are some who have had success. That also holds true for OC's their first time around, does thethe Raiders ring any bells?

[footstepsfrom#27]

Spagnuolo said earlier this year that he didn't feel ready to be a head coach when he was under consideration for the Skins job. Was he not enamored with the job, lacking in confidence, or accurately judging his own abilities?

Two of those three things bother me.

[lex]

Spagnuolo said earlier this year that he didn't feel ready to be a head coach when he was under consideration for the Skins job. Was he not enamored with the job, lacking in confidence, or accurately judging his own abilities?

Two of those three things bother me.

It has been speculated that one of the issues he had with Washington was that he didnt like the degree to which Snyder was picking the coaches and not that he wasnt "ready". Not being ready is generally seen as a euphemism for, Washington wasnt what I wanted.

[Punisher]

I just hope to god we get T-Spagz,all this team needs is D and we can fight for a Super Bowl.But I think its going to take T-Spagz at least a year to turn this D around...

[lex]

I just hope to god we get T-Spagz,all this team needs is D and we can fight for a Super Bowl.But I think its going to take T-Spagz at least a year to turn this D around...

Perhaps not. He's one of the best defensive schemers there is, unlike Slowik.

[broncos-rock]

okay lets say Spagz gets the job does he bring any of the current giant players with him? or anybody from the eagles since that was his old gig? not worth a new thread just curious !!

[lex]

okay lets say Spagz gets the job does he bring any of the current giant players with him? or anybody from the eagles since that was his old gig? not worth a new thread just curious !!

Brian Dawkins?

[skpac1001]

Perhaps not. He's one of the best defensive schemers there is, unlike Slowik.

Yeah, I don't think he is as dependent on getting the exact right personnel in to work his scheme like a DC who relies on the front 4 would be, so I would expect earlier success with him then others. I still expect some ugly games though, since it is an aggressive, blitzing scheme the players are picking up, the growing pains will probably be long touchdowns.

[elsid13]

Yeah, I don't think he is as dependent on getting the exact right personnel in to work his scheme like a DC who relies on the front 4 would be, so I would expect earlier success with him then others. I still expect some ugly games though, since it is an aggressive, blitzing scheme the players are picking up, the growing pains will probably be long touchdowns.

But that alright if he keeps the offense in place. That one thing that annoyed the **** out of me last season. We had the offense in place to score quickly why didn't Denver aggressively attempt to get the ball back?

The defense need to meet the offensive philosophy and didn't

[broncos-rock]

Brian Dawkins?

I was looking through the free agency list and I hardly saw any eagles or giants dline or LB that were available. Hopefully we draft really well again. I also read that we may be intereted in a pakage deal with Heckert the eagles gm. Don't know if that really excites me because they have missed on some 1st rounders as well.

[Circle Orange]

Dude must have ass burn, with all these flights around the country he's taking.

[Dagmar]

Dude must have ass burn, with all these flights around the country he's taking.

If the Broncos and Jets are available, why even bother with the other teams!

[lex]

Dude must have ass burn, with all these flights around the country he's taking.

Bowlen and Ellis are going to NY to interview him.

[TonyR]

If the Broncos and Jets are available, why even bother with the other teams!

One real concern is that if Spagnuolo's choice in any way becomes a $ issue we could be in trouble with the $20+ million Bowlen is on the hook for with Shanny. In other words, we'd probably lose a bidding war with the Jets (unless they have a similar hook with Mangini). Let's hope it doesn't come to that.

[lex]

One real concern is that if Spagnuolo's choice in any way becomes a $ issue we could be in trouble with the $20+ million Bowlen is on the hook for with Shanny. In other words, we'd probably lose a bidding war with the Jets (unless they have a similar hook with Mangini). Let's hope it doesn't come to that.

The Jets have 3-4 personnel and they will be finding a new QB.

[Punisher]

T-Spagz looks like a Great Fit and he could be the face of the broncos for years to come.Lets just Pray

[TonyR]

The Jets have 3-4 personnel and they will be finding a new QB.

I agree that on paper we're the better choice for him. The things in the Jets favor would be location (he could stay in NY/NJ and not move his family) and possibly money.

[Inkana7]

http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/0aLT63JcAB56v/340x.jpg

Without the Goatee his profile picture looks just like Shanny's.

[Br0nc0Buster]

http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/0aLT63JcAB56v/340x.jpg

Without the Goatee his profile picture looks just like Shanny's.

if "anytime you get a guy like....." starts coming up in conferences, I will be suspicious

[socalorado]

http://cache.daylife.com/imageserve/0aLT63JcAB56v/340x.jpg

Without the Goatee his profile picture looks just like Shanny's.

Thats freakin weird man. He looks like he could be shannys brother.
Edit: he also looks really guilty, or really high.

[Bronx33]

Thats freakin weird man. He looks like he could be shannys brother.
Edit: he also looks really guilty, or really high.


Ya just punch him in the eye to get one of those eyeballs off center and it's a dead ringer.

[Rohirrim]

PHOENIX (BP)--New York Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has been given much of the credit an upstart defense that lifted the Giants to an improbable Super Bowl berth.

But Spagnuolo also has a personal game plan rooted in Jesus Christ.

"I think my faith is everything," said Spagnuolo, a regular in the Giants coaches' Bible study. "It's the foundation of what I am." From his faith grows "a belief that God has a hand in all of this," the coach said during the media-intensive week prior to Sunday's face-off with the New England Patriots.

Giants chaplain George McGovern said this year's coaching staff, from a faith standpoint, is one of the most committed he's been around in the decade-plus he's been with the Giants.

Reflecting McGovern's assessment, Giants strength and conditioning coach Jerry Palmieri noted, "In whatever we do, we are to glorify God, and this is just the platform He has given us.
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=27296

[SoCalBronco]

PHOENIX (BP)--New York Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has been given much of the credit an upstart defense that lifted the Giants to an improbable Super Bowl berth.

But Spagnuolo also has a personal game plan rooted in Jesus Christ.

"I think my faith is everything," said Spagnuolo, a regular in the Giants coaches' Bible study. "It's the foundation of what I am." From his faith grows "a belief that God has a hand in all of this," the coach said during the media-intensive week prior to Sunday's face-off with the New England Patriots.

Giants chaplain George McGovern said this year's coaching staff, from a faith standpoint, is one of the most committed he's been around in the decade-plus he's been with the Giants.

Reflecting McGovern's assessment, Giants strength and conditioning coach Jerry Palmieri noted, "In whatever we do, we are to glorify God, and this is just the platform He has given us.
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=27296

Awesome. I'm starting to warm to him, more. He can handle the defense, just let Bates/Dennison/Turner handle the offense and we would have made the best of a bad situation.

[Rohirrim]

Actually, it doesn't matter unless he feels that everyone on the team should share his belief system. Some religious people don't know the limits.

[DBruleU]

PHOENIX (BP)--New York Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has been given much of the credit an upstart defense that lifted the Giants to an improbable Super Bowl berth.

But Spagnuolo also has a personal game plan rooted in Jesus Christ.

"I think my faith is everything," said Spagnuolo, a regular in the Giants coaches' Bible study. "It's the foundation of what I am." From his faith grows "a belief that God has a hand in all of this," the coach said during the media-intensive week prior to Sunday's face-off with the New England Patriots.

Giants chaplain George McGovern said this year's coaching staff, from a faith standpoint, is one of the most committed he's been around in the decade-plus he's been with the Giants.

Reflecting McGovern's assessment, Giants strength and conditioning coach Jerry Palmieri noted, "In whatever we do, we are to glorify God, and this is just the platform He has given us.
http://www.bpnews.net/BPnews.asp?ID=27296

I really like the sound of this guy. He has character, and is a good coach.

[SoCalBronco]

Actually, it doesn't matter unless he feels that everyone on the team should share his belief system. Some religious people don't know the limits.

I'm pretty sure he isn't going to force anything on Ryan Harris et al.

[watermock]

Bring in their conditioning coach too....

[Rohirrim]

I'm pretty sure he isn't going to force anything on Ryan Harris et al.

It's not a matter of forcing anything on anybody. In sports, for some reason, religion seems to cross the line more than it would in other work-places. If you have 25 guys on a defensive squad and 15 of them are meeting for bible studies with the coach every day and gathering for a practice-closing-prayer with the coach at the end of every workout, how do the other 10 guys who don't participate start feeling about it? It can end up being distracting and detrimental to the team concept, IMO.

[footstepsfrom#27]

It's not a matter of forcing anything on anybody. In sports, for some reason, religion seems to cross the line more than it would in other work-places. If you have 25 guys on a defensive squad and 15 of them are meeting for bible studies with the coach every day and gathering for a practice-closing-prayer with the coach at the end of every workout, how do the other 10 guys who don't participate start feeling about it? It can end up being distracting and detrimental to the team concept, IMO.
I'd be more concerned about this guy because less than 12 months ago he said he wasn't ready to be a head coach in the NFL. That's either a lack of confidence or it's a guy being truthful. Either way, it raises a red flag IMO.

[Rohirrim]

I'd be more concerned about this guy because less than 12 months ago he said he wasn't ready to be a head coach in the NFL. That's either a lack of confidence or it's a guy being truthful. Either way, it raises a red flag IMO.

Maybe he thinks Daniel Snyder is Satan. ;D

[broncocalijohn]

Actually, it doesn't matter unless he feels that everyone on the team should share his belief system. Some religious people don't know the limits.

A little different when he is "God" and we need divine intervention on defense.

[broncocalijohn]

It's not a matter of forcing anything on anybody. In sports, for some reason, religion seems to cross the line more than it would in other work-places. If you have 25 guys on a defensive squad and 15 of them are meeting for bible studies with the coach every day and gathering for a practice-closing-prayer with the coach at the end of every workout, how do the other 10 guys who don't participate start feeling about it? It can end up being distracting and detrimental to the team concept, IMO.

then cut off all extra curricular activities that dont involve everyone. If all 25 dont play Larsen at QB in Madden 09, then ban the game. Not everyone does everything together. There are other times where all are together to bring unity. If that doesnt work, those other 10 should stop worshipping satan and get into those bible meetings.

[DBruleU]

It's not a matter of forcing anything on anybody. In sports, for some reason, religion seems to cross the line more than it would in other work-places. If you have 25 guys on a defensive squad and 15 of them are meeting for bible studies with the coach every day and gathering for a practice-closing-prayer with the coach at the end of every workout, how do the other 10 guys who don't participate start feeling about it? It can end up being distracting and detrimental to the team concept, IMO.

Seems to me one of the best players this year, and most looked up to vets in the league this year was Kurt Warner, and he is very outspoken about his faith. Doesn't seem to cause the Cards to have problems, and I see him after everygame holding a post-game prayer in the center of the field for all to see...like many other players do. You're making an issue out of nothing, and I don't know why you would think someones faith has detrimental problems in sports.

[Rohirrim]

then cut off all extra curricular activities that dont involve everyone. If all 25 dont play Larsen at QB in Madden 09, then ban the game. Not everyone does everything together. There are other times where all are together to bring unity. If that doesnt work, those other 10 should stop worshipping satan and get into those bible meetings.

Madden is a religion? Maybe you're right. ;D

[lex]

Bowlen is also a catholic, no?

[Rohirrim]

Seems to me one of the best players this year, and most looked up to vets in the league this year was Kurt Warner, and he is very outspoken about his faith. Doesn't seem to cause the Cards to have problems, and I see him after everygame holding a post-game prayer in the center of the field for all to see...like many other players do. You're making an issue out of nothing, and I don't know why you would think someones faith has detrimental problems in sports.

I find Warner's sanctimony highly obnoxious. I'll bet there are players on that team who feel the same way. Who knows? They probably just ignore it the way one would most annoying crap you come across in life. IMO, it would be a different thing if your coach was running the prayer meetings.

[baja]

Awesome. I'm starting to warm to him, more. He can handle the defense, just let Bates/Dennison/Turner handle the offense and we would have made the best of a bad situation.

Does this mean you have but your pulsating, whirling 15 inch aids dipped dick away?

[baja]

I'd be more concerned about this guy because less than 12 months ago he said he wasn't ready to be a head coach in the NFL. That's either a lack of confidence or it's a guy being truthful. Either way, it raises a red flag IMO.

More likely a diplomatic way of saying no thanks to Snyder.

[Bronx33]

Does this mean you have but your pulsating, whirling 15 inch aids dipped dick away?


Can you be a bit more descriptive.

[Rohirrim]

Ha! DBruleU neg-repped me. What an ass.

[SoCalBronco]

Does this mean you have but your pulsating, whirling 15 inch aids dipped dick away?

If you're asking whether I'm still pissed at Bowlen and whether I still feel like crap about this whole thing, I'd answer in the affirmative. I'm trying to get over it though and trying to think about how things are going forward but its still hard.

[Br0nc0Buster]

If that doesnt work, those other 10 should stop worshipping satan and get into those bible meetings.

Are you serious?

[DBruleU]

Ha! DBruleU neg-repped me. What an ass.

I can neg-rep whoever I want when I disagree with their stupidity. You can do the same to me and I won't cry about it. I'm not here to try and be popular with people I'll never meet.

[footstepsfrom#27]

More likely a diplomatic way of saying no thanks to Snyder.
Maybe...but why not just say he's not interested? Why put his own credentials forward as the issue?

[wolf754life]

I'd be more concerned about this guy because less than 12 months ago he said he wasn't ready to be a head coach in the NFL. That's either a lack of confidence or it's a guy being truthful. Either way, it raises a red flag IMO.

Mike Shanahan told bowlen he wasn't ready back in 1994 when we hired wade phillips, two years later he was.

its a great sign, means he is humble and wants to keep learning.

[Rohirrim]

I can neg-rep whoever I want when I disagree with their stupidity. You can do the same to me and I won't cry about it. I'm not here to try and be popular with people I'll never meet.

No need to throw a tantrum, clown.

[DBruleU]

No need to throw a tantrum, clown.

If you met me, you'd see I'm one the most down to earth people. I don't get worked up. :)

[Broncos_OTM]

I'm pretty sure he isn't going to force anything on Ryan Harris et al.
Ok doesnt harris follow the muslim faith...... i coula swore.l i remember somethingh about a holiday where they fast.

[BigPlayShay]

Ok doesnt harris follow the muslim faith...... i coula swore.l i remember somethingh about a holiday where they fast.

Yes he follows the Muslim religion, however, he attempted to fast for Ramadan in 2007 after Hamza Abdullah persuaded him to, but he couldn't hack it and stopped fasting. He did not fast this year at all and instead focused on some of the other traditions that go along with Ramadan.

[footstepsfrom#27]

Mike Shanahan told bowlen he wasn't ready back in 1994 when we hired wade phillips, two years later he was.

its a great sign, means he is humble and wants to keep learning.
How is that possible since Shanahan was already coaching the Raiders in 1988, SIX YEARS before that? Did he take that job thinking he was unprepared? Actually it was 5 years earlier since Phillips started coaching Denver in 1993, and Shanny spent '89-91 on Reeves staff...plus an additional 2 more with the 9ers while Phiilips was here. Shanny came back in 1995. It was 6 years between his gig with Davis ending and Bowlen offering the job so if Mike told him he wasn't ready in '94 why was Wade still the coach that season? Since Shanny was on Reeves staff during the interim, are you saying Bowlen offered him the job while Reeves was still there? I doubt that's the case.

My point is this; Shanahan at the time he came to Denver had been an NFL head coach already for 2 years, plus he'd also been seasoned in both Denver and the Niner's systems for a total of 10 seasons. Do you really think he told Bowlen that after 12 years as both a HC and an assistant, especially when over half that time was in the Denver organization? If Shanny told Bowlen he wasn't ready it was in 93 when Phillips was hired, 18 years after he started coaching and 11 after he came to the NFL.

What more could a guy learn in his 12th and 13th season in the NFL that he hadn't learned already? ??? By contrast, Spags has 8 years in the NFL and only 2 as a coordinator, compared with Shanahan's 5 as a coordinator and 2 more as the HC. Clearly Shanahan was much further along in terms of experience...a fact that might make me think Spags was being serious when he said he wasn't ready.

I just hope we take our time to get the right guy and Bowlen doesn't make a snap judgement. He needs to talk to a lot of people. I think he's already been doing that...hopefully anyway. I don't want to go through this again for another 12 years or so if possible.

[Rohirrim]

Bowlen doesn't make snap judgments. Just ask TJ. Ha!

[broncosteven]

Everyone is talking about Spagnoloololo being the top Defensive oriented HC canidate this year.

Anyone remember in 94 when Wanny was the top Defensive canidate, ex-Dallas DC.

That didn't work out so well did it.

Why will this guy do better than Wanny, at either stop, Duh Bears or Miami?

[TonyR]

Why will this guy do better than Wanny, at either stop, Duh Bears or Miami?

Because he doesn't have a mustache.

[broncosteven]

Because he doesn't have a mustache.

But everyone here loved Plummers Pornstache.

[TonyR]

But everyone here loved Plummers Pornstache.

Yea, mustaches are fun and funny on guys who should never have one. Guys like Jake, I mean.

[Dagmar]

http://www.explosm.net/db/files/Comics/Matt/and-on-the-fourth-day-god-said-let-there-be-acronyms.png

[MechanicalBull]

But everyone here loved Plummers Pornstache.

mustaches might be fun and can be creative but they don't win games. Just ask Jake and Wanny. :thumbs:

[gyldenlove]

Everyone is talking about Spagnoloololo being the top Defensive oriented HC canidate this year.

Anyone remember in 94 when Wanny was the top Defensive canidate, ex-Dallas DC.

That didn't work out so well did it.

Why will this guy do better than Wanny, at either stop, Duh Bears or Miami?

You have to come up with something better than a single example. Mike Tomlin did quite well and he was a top DC, Romeo Crennel didn't do well and he was a top DC, Tony Dungy did quite well and he was a top DC.

You can't just pick a random guy and ask why someone else should be different. We are all different, even top DCs are different, some sink, some swim, some walk on water.

[Dedhed]

Everyone is talking about Spagnoloololo being the top Defensive oriented HC canidate this year.

Anyone remember in 94 when Wanny was the top Defensive canidate, ex-Dallas DC.

That didn't work out so well did it.

Why will this guy do better than Wanny, at either stop, Duh Bears or Miami?

Maybe because he's a different person?

[gyldenlove]

Yes he follows the Muslim religion, however, he attempted to fast for Ramadan in 2007 after Hamza Abdullah persuaded him to, but he couldn't hack it and stopped fasting. He did not fast this year at all and instead focused on some of the other traditions that go along with Ramadan.

Luckily Ramdam moves by about 12 days per year because it follows an archaic calendar. Ramadan began September 2nd and ended October 1st in 2008 and will begin around August 20th this year, so in a few years Ramadan will fall entirely in the off-season and continue to do so for all the remaining part of Ryan Harris career.

[mhgaffney]

Someone suggested we trade Marshall for Calvin Johnson even steven.

I would support that move -- but I don't expect it to happen.

Most likely Marshall will stay a Bronco., I just hope the coaches can work with this kid and help him develop some football smarts.

[Broncoman13]

I think it was said tongue in cheek about trading Marshall for Calvin Johnson. Even the Redskins wouldn't do that trade with us! We would have to kick in a first for the Lions to even consider that and I still don't think they'd do it. As good as Brandon Marshall is, Calvin Johnson, Andre Johnson, and Steve Smith are still the best in the NFL by a pretty good margin. Brandon was down on himself this year for a reason.

[2KBack]

I think it was said tongue in cheek about trading Marshall for Calvin Johnson. Even the Redskins wouldn't do that trade with us! We would have to kick in a first for the Lions to even consider that and I still don't think they'd do it. As good as Brandon Marshall is, Calvin Johnson, Andre Johnson, and Steve Smith are still the best in the NFL by a pretty good margin. Brandon was down on himself this year for a reason.

I don;t think the margin is that great. Marshall had some issues this season adjusting to being the focus of the defense every week, and dropped too many balls. He still has 104 catches and 1250 yards while missing a blowout game and being bracketed every week.

[lex]

Did anyone light a candle last night for "the cause"? I really hope it went well. I really hope there was a meaningful handshake last night.

[Traveler]

Adam Schefter
Busy day for Giants’ Spagnuolo
Posted: Adam Schefter | Adam Schefter | Tags: Cleveland Browns, Denver Broncos, New York Jets, NFL coaching search, Steve Spagnuolo


No assistant coach will be as busy on Saturday as Giants defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo. It’s Spagnuolo’s day.

Saturday starts with an interview at the Jets training complex in New Jersey, continues with an interview in New York City with a contingent of Broncos officials Saturday night, and then wraps up with Spagnuolo trying to figure out whom the Giants will play host to in next weekend’s NFC Divisional Playoff Game.

Spagnuolo also could have other options aside from the Jets, Broncos and Browns which interviewed him earlier this week. The New York Giants do not want Spagnuolo to leave and could be persuaded to promise their defensive coordinator the chance to succeed head coach Tom Coughlin whenever he retires.

No one can say for certainty where Spagnuolo will end up next season. But more and more it is looking like it will be with the head coaching title.

http://blogs.nfl.com/2009/01/03/busy-day-for-giants-spagnuolo/

[Inkana7]

Nooooo!!!

[CoBear23]

You have to come up with something better than a single example. Mike Tomlin did quite well and he was a top DC, Romeo Crennel didn't do well and he was a top DC, Tony Dungy did quite well and he was a top DC.

You can't just pick a random guy and ask why someone else should be different. We are all different, even top DCs are different, some sink, some swim, some walk on water.

Thank You!