The Miami Dolphins search for their next head coach continued on Saturday, with no real change over the course of the day. Miami completed its two day interview of Green Bay Packers offensive coordinator Joe Philbin. Meanwhile, the Dolphins await word from top candidate Jeff Fisher, who is weighing his choice between the the St. Louis Rams and South Beach.
Word came out yesterday morning that the Dolphins had set up their next potential candidate interview, asking the Atlanta Falcons for permission to speak with their offensive coordinator Mike Mularkey. Mularkey has head coach experience, having served as the top coach for the Buffalo Bills from 2004-2005. Mularkey has also been in Miami, having served on Nick Saban's staff as the offensive coordinator in 2006, staying on with Cam Cameron as the tight ends coach in 2007.
Currently, the Dolphins have interviewed their interim head coach Todd Bowles and Chicago Bears special teams coach Dave Toub, along with Fisher and Philbin.
The Dolphins are expected to continue to scour the NFL's coordinators for their next coach, while continuing to await word from Fisher. As the NFL playoffs continue, the Dolphins should begin targeting the coaches from some of the teams that lose each week. With the Cincinnati Bengals losing to the Houston Texans yesterday, two new potential candidates are available for interviews, offensive coordinator Jay Gruden and defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer. The Lions loss could bring offensive coordinator Scott Linehan into play as well.
Meanwhile, Fisher was heading to St. Louis yesterday to visit the Rams' facilities. His interview with Rams owner Stan Kroenke took place in Denver, so this was his first time actually seeing the Rams' complex. Fisher is expected to make a final decision on his destination early this week.
Until then, the Dolphins will continue to line up coordinators to interview, and build their plan in case Fisher goes to St. Louis. And, as fans, we will continue to wait and react to every rumor and piece of information that leaks out about Fisher.
1 recs | 125 comments
I kinf of hope Fisher goes to STL
Would like to see Philbin or Mularkey here and spread the ball around… Fisher is too conservative.
StinkyMojo - January 8, 2012
Agreed.
Just to show us how Ross has no clue on being a Head Honcho. Last year he talked about how he wanted to have an exciting and explosive offense, but Fisher is a defensive coach, and we have the 6th ranked defense in the league with Nolan already. So yeah . . .
Dolfan2006 - January 8, 2012 via mobile
We actually had an "exciting" offence
Bush was explosive and fun to watch and the Dolphins were among the NFL leaders in plays of 20 yds or more. Add to that you never knew if Marshall was going to drop a ball or make a catch with two guys hanging off him…they were anything but boring.
I don’t get where Fisher gets the “defensive” coach label from…The Titans/Oilers were not a conservative team while he was there…McNair – the Music City Miracle – he didn’t turn CJ2K into a third-down back and it’s not like he made Vince Young hand the ball off when Adams rammed him down his throat…
PhrozenPhish - January 8, 2012
Yes we did.
The O was fun this watch this year, but that was not my point.
Fisher is a Defensive guy and ground & pound on Offensive, but hey don’t believe me here’s straight from the horse’s mouth:
http://www.titansonline.com/team/coaches/Fisher_Jeff/baac4b91-f07d-4641-a181-2d7474f11033
Dolfan2006 - January 8, 2012 via mobile
*Offense
Dolfan2006 - January 8, 2012 via mobile
No, I get it, but a "defensive" coach doesn't mean you can't have an exciting offence.
Sparano had basically the same philosophy…run the ball and stop the run…as Fisher but that didn’t stop Daboll from going down-field way more than Henning did.
You win with what you’ve got: Shula was the most defensive-minded coach in the NFL until he got Marino. Billick – who everyone calls an “offensive” coach won his only Super Bowl with an average offence and one of the best D’s of all time.
I’m not a Ross fan either but I think by “excitement” he meant star-power as much as anything..hence Bush – which actually worked out…Ross wants butts in seats and thinks glitz, glam and pyrotechnics will sell tickets.
Fisher, in his mind probably, represents credibility and star power….I wouldn’t write him off yet.
PhrozenPhish - January 8, 2012
True.
But keep in mind that the reason why this season why more “exciting” was due to Ross’ ultimatum for Sparano for a more exciting offense. That’s what Sparano did, he completely changed his philosphy of the game to meets those needs.
My issue is with hiring someone that its similar to someone that has been here the last 3-4 years with inept results from the same philosophy.
If Fisher is signed, more than likely Nolan will be out the door, and that’s where I see the problem. I’m a strong believer of “if it ain’t broke, why fix it” not to say Fisher won’t garnish the same results but the offense will go back to the same predictable, boring game plan.
Dolfan2006 - January 8, 2012 via mobile
And, Nolan won't be back.
Sp, we have to find someone who can help out the defense.
Kevin Nogle - January 8, 2012
Are we sure of that?
Fisher would probably wanty Chuch Cecil but all of the other candidates are co-ordinators who probably don’t have DC’s in their back pockets…a guy like Philbin isn’t going to bring Dom Capers with him…he’d do well to keep Nolan.
PhrozenPhish - January 8, 2012
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
saints
hope the phins are goint to interview carmichael..he would be better than mularkey
paul wall 1962 - January 8, 2012
Except he doesn't know how to use Bush and we would likely look to trade him.
PotM - January 8, 2012
Lol @ this
In his first year as playcaller Bush-clone Darren Sproles was a huge factor in the run and pass game..
Little Nicky 21 - January 9, 2012 via Android app
Sproles is not Bush.
PotM - January 9, 2012
Interview Packers Assistant head coach Winston Moss
Armando Salguero has an article in sunday’s Miami Herald stating Winston Moss is the best assistant for the packers and should be interviewed for Miami’s vacant head coaching spot.
tpl - January 8, 2012
Well at first I was all for it but after reading that Mando was for it I am now not so sure.
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
Hahahahahahaha.. agreed!
Alpha6 - January 8, 2012
And, as fans, we will continue to wait and react to every rumor and piece of information that leaks out about Fisher.
So true Mosul….nice quote!
Hardcore fans are very emotional over these issues (just ask my wife)….my questions is if Fisher chooses the Rams will it be seen as another failure by Ross….I think we should cut him a break…he certainly appears to be doing all he can to improve us!
If no Fisher I would love to see Toub or Philbin.
MassFinFan65 - January 8, 2012
Forgot to block quote!
MassFinFan65 - January 8, 2012
There are a good many fans that will see it as a failure.
I’ve seen it on Twitter already over the last few days. “Mr. Ross, you’re 0-2 on coaches. Get a clue.” “Ross sucks. He can’t land the coach.” etc
I agree though. He’s working it. He’s trying to get the guy. He can’t help it if the guy wants to go somewhere else.
Kevin Nogle - January 8, 2012
So true. There are so many things that go in to the decisions for a coach. Ross can not be held accountable for each one.
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
... and HC's act like prima-donnas.....
Alpha6 - January 8, 2012
Here's my problem: If all things were equal, when would the St. Louis job ever be better than the Miami job?
The fact that this is a hard decision for Fisher shows how far Miami has fallen in the last decade. Part of that has to reflect on the current GM because of a lack of QB and direction.
The reason why Fisher would choose the Rams over the Dolphins IMO is that the Rams are set at QB and he would have a say in who the GM is.
He gets neither of those in Miami despite the fact that Ross has promised him more money. If Fisher is the guy Ross wants and doesn’t land him, I think that is a direct result of Ross’ decision to keep Ireland and Ireland’s failure to get a QB in his 4 years here.
ct1361 - January 8, 2012
This is assuming that you know all the facts and things that he is weighing in his decision. Seems like a mighty powerful assumption on your part.
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
I don't know all the facts, that's why I said all things being equal.
I never in my life as a fan of the Dolphins would think that a coaching candidate would choose the Rams over Miami, especially if Miami is offering more money, which all reports that I have read are indicating has happened.
If it happens, if Fisher becomes the Rams HC, I will be stunned. If that isn’t a reflection on the organization as a whole, I don’t know what is.
ct1361 - January 8, 2012
I think there are so many factors that it does not necessarily reflect on the Phins.
I still think that’s powerful assumption to make. Perhaps he is being offered more control in STL and that’s why he takes it. Well I for one do not believe i the HC/GM as the same person model so I would say let him go to STL. That is no reflection on the organization just a preference on his part. Who knows?
I guess on the whole I am tired of so called fans that do nothing but bash our team, our organization and our owner when they do not know all the facts or the fact that they do use to make their poor arguments are made up BS.
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
You know what I am tired of, "so called" fans who don't think decisions have consequences.
I’m tired of “so called” fans never finding any fault with an organization that has had 3 straight losing seasons and one playoff appearance in the last 10 years. It wasn’t Henne’s fault that he wasn’t a good QB. It wasn’t Sparano’s fault that he wasn’t a good coach. It’s not Ireland’s fault that the Phins haven’t found a QB. The excuses go on and on and on.
If Fisher is the target of the HC search, then you put into place the pieces that make him want to come here. Do I know what those pieces are? No, I don’t any more than you or anyone else outside the parties involved. It is Ross’, Ireland’s, and Peterson’s job to know what those pieces are. If Fisher doesn’t come here, especially if the Phins have the highest contract offer, it is someone’s fault, someone in the organization. I think that is fairly obvious.
ct1361 - January 8, 2012
Really? Who has done that? Name one one person on this blog that has done that?
Sad that ANYONE thinks that it or anything in life should come down to money.
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
You must not read the same stuff on this site that I do. Funny, aren't you a coordinator on the site? LOL
I did an entire post on this site last year basically discussing this topic. The post took comments from different posts about how none of the players from a 7-9 team needed to be replaced. The coaches didn’t need replaced (except for Henning, because everything wrong was his fault), Parcels was a genius, etc.
http://www.thephinsider.com/2011/3/20/2062567/how-in-the-world-were-the-phins-7-9-the-last-two-seasons
Money shouldn’t be the deciding factor in a decision as important as this for Fisher. But again, all things being equal, why not take the higher paying job? The better question is, why does Ross feel the need to make sure he offers the highest salary to get him? Could it be that the Dolphins need to offer more money to make their HC position more attractive? Doesn’t that say something about the state of the franchise?
In 4 of the last 5 years, the Rams have won 3 or fewer games. The Rams haven’t had a winning record since ‘03. Yet the Rams are seen as being a better opportunity for a new HC? I don’t see the reason for that. But like you said and I will admit, I don’t know all the details. All I know is that the Phins have targeted 2 HC candidate the last two years and will have failed to attract either of them. If top Head Coaching candidates don’t want to come to Miami, I think it is fair to ask why?
ct1361 - January 8, 2012
Just because everyone does not agree with every single facet of your beliefs on what is wrong
with the team does not mean that people do not believe that there are things that need to be changed. If you have the all the answers and know everything then why don’t you go apply for the head job down there as you know it all and the rest of us don’t know shit? Also what the F does my position on this site have to do with my opinions?
Well if you know what is in the mans mind and heart please enlighten the rest of us? You have no Fing idea and neither do the rest of us. There are SO many factors that go in to making such a decision. Hell it does not even all come down to him. He is a part of a family and they have input as well. Just because you think that Miami>STL (the city that is) or whatever other things you think are more important or should be have ZERO to do with the reality of the situation.Sure asking the question is one thing but assuming that your the man with all the answer is another. Each is its own individual situation. One is believed to have wanted to stay where he was and close to his home. The other we do not know. Maybe he likes the idea of a higher draft pick and that in the end sways him. Who knows but things like that are not a reflection of the franchise on the whole. Besides if you have so much distaste for the team and organization why are you still around?
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
Easy TCP. I was joking about you being a "coordinator".
Your opinions are just as valid as anyone else’s on this site, including mine. I am very opinionated. I admit that. I also admit that I am not always right (ask my wife and kids).
IMO, a universal truth to all coaches that have choices to where they will go for a job, they will always go to the place where they feel that they are most likely to succeed.
For example: Harbaugh had choices. He choose SF. Fisher has choices. It looks like he is going to choose Stl. Nick Saban had choices. He choose Miami. Cam Cameron had choices. He choose Miami.
I like to ask “why” when things happen. Knowing coaches the way I do (or did is probably more accurate) makes me wonder why Harbaugh would think he could be more successful in SF than in Miami? Why would Fisher think he would be more successful in Stl than in Miami?
That’s really what it boils down to, IMO. Because regardless of why they made their choice, if they fail, it will damage their reputation, and no coach, at any level wants that. If that means taking less money or uprooting your family to be successful, so be it. Because at the end of the day, all coaches have is their reputation.
ct1361 - January 8, 2012
Sorry if I get a bit fired up at times!
I just do not always agree with that. I know that Miami fans (especially the ones that live there or are from there) think that its such a great place to live and how could anyone not love beaches ect… but there are all the other factors involved. What if for example his wife hates Miami? I for one grew up in the Gables but when I go back, which I often do, I am glad I do not live there any longer. For one I can hardly recognize the place that I grew up and for two everyone is so damn over the top rude. I also read that he is a big hunter and that for that reason he loved living in Tenn. even though the facilities and the owner were a joke. Some people value things differently then others and guys like Fisher have a belief that they can win anywhere.
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
Not a problem. I suffer from the same disease! LOL
I still think Ross, Ireland, and Peterson need to ask why guys like Harbaugh and Fisher are not taking the Miami position. They have to make an honest assessment of the organization and the steps that are needed to make it better or more appealing. Miami should be a destination for players and coaches alike. If its not, something needs to change.
ct1361 - January 8, 2012
Oh gosh Ct I remember that post.
It was well written but I remember you used two qoutes from me in it as examples of “overly positive” or “nonsensical” ones, both of which had a spelling/gramatical error in them. It was embarrassing.
civwarbuff - January 9, 2012
I don't understand what you are saying here.
“I never in my life as a fan of the Dolphins would think that a coaching candidate would choose the Rams over Miami, especially if Miami is offering more money, which all reports that I have read are indicating has happened.”
What makes this organization superior to St. Louis? Location? Money? History? I sure as heck hope it isn’t history and tradition! If that was a consideration than I wouldn’t want that coach in Miami anyways.
I agree that his decision to go to St. Louis may be a reflection upon Stan Kroenkes ownership as compared to the Ross’ ownership (or the obvious management factors) but even if it is why is that so stunning. Why though should anything else be a consideration? Why is Miami more desireable? Nothing besides the factors related to the football team should be a consideration except absolute neccesities like the relocation of your family. If it is I wouldn’t want him anyways.
civwarbuff - January 8, 2012
My being a fan goes from the late 70's to today. For the better part of 25 years, through the end of the 90's, the Miami Dolphins were a top 5 Franchise in the NFL.
The Rams were an afterthought during that entire period. I guess I am living in the past because the thought of a HC choosing an “afterthought” over my beloved team I find stunning.
I have a hard time coming to grips with the fact that the Miami Dolphins are now the “afterthought”.
ct1361 - January 8, 2012
I think we just see it somewhat differently
possibly because I am younger so my perspective is naturally going to be different from what I have seen as compared to what you have seen. However I think that a coach should never take into account history or tradition e.t.c. He needs to find the right location for him now, the place that gives him the best chance to build (or coach) a Superbowl winning team. Nothing else is relevant.
civwarbuff - January 8, 2012
I don't agree. I think the Rams have come up in peoples eyes more so then the Phins have fallen.
Also like I keep saying there are so many different considerations that unless YOU actually know what they are perhaps you should not be so down on your own team.
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
I agree with you CT.
FinFanFromCA - January 8, 2012
Thanks FinFan. I've been getting beat up by TCP for the better part of the day! LOL
It’s nice to know am not alone on my island! :)
ct1361 - January 8, 2012
LOL Your still wrong!
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
CT is exactly right.
To say there is nothing wrong is ignoring the elephant in the room as they say. All things are not equal when comparing teams that are in the process of hiring a coach at this moment. Coaches have to identify what will work and what will not work when considering this job. Unless Ross comes across as an ass in interviews. I can’t imagine that so I will rule him out for the moment. Location is solid. Money being offered is solid. Roster is above average. Draft pick is Top 10. QB is solid bridge till we find the next Franchise QB. We have a young team so age is not a problem. You have to wonder why big name coaches don’t want to be part of our team.
If all things are equal then why not us? Should be an easy choice right? So coaches like Fisher, Cowher, Gruden and Harbaugh obviously know something we don’t. If it’s not about the money and by all accounts its not. Then what the hell is the deciding factor? What is it that makes our team bridesmaids everytime? Those are the questions that Ross need to ask. Sometimes you have to step away from the fight to get an honest view of your sitiuation. If Fisher picks the Rams then Ross needs to figure out why and fix or fire it.
FinFanFromCA - January 9, 2012
All thing are not equal.
PotM - January 9, 2012
*things
PotM - January 9, 2012
I know. So what is the deciding factor?
FinFanFromCA - January 9, 2012
Well the word is that Cowher and Gruden do not want to come back yet if at all so if you have some
info that the rest of us do not please link it here. As to the other two location are reported to have had an impact on the first and might also on the second.
So basically this POV is based on one decision and one decision that has yet to be made? Yeah not enough data for me to say that CT is on to some revolutionary theory.
texascowpunk - January 9, 2012
Gruden and Cowher
Gruden——
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/01/03/carl-peterson-also-met-with-gruden-about-dolphins-job/
Cowher—-
CBSsports.com is reporting that ‘intermediaries’ for the Miami Dolphins have contacted people close to former Pittsburgh Steelers coach Bill Cowher about coaching the team.
FinFanFromCA - January 9, 2012
Gruden and Cowher
Let me add that if you want to get either one of these coaches. Than the sitiuation would have to be the right one. IMO. Its obvious that we do not have the right sitiuation to draw either out of the booth. Sooner or later you have to look at why.
FinFanFromCA - January 9, 2012
Both have had numerous chances to come back. Neither want to and maybe that's all there
is to it. Making much to do about nothing it seems to me.
texascowpunk - January 9, 2012
I think both would come back for the right team.
They say Cowher would love to coach the Giants. Great owner, solid roster, and solid FO. I think Gruden and Fisher would have been fighting for the Chargers job. If they had gotten rid of Turner and AJ Smith. IMO.
My whole thing is what makes those teams better than our Dolphins?
FinFanFromCA - January 9, 2012
Those teams for those coaches? Geography. Just like Miami was to JJ.
Not a refection on the team as much as other factors.
texascowpunk - January 9, 2012
Why not St. Louis
Fisher is a conservative midwest guy. He loved Nashville which is located in a fairly conservative state and St Louis is only a couple of hours away.
1. St. Louis has low expectations. They don’t have to compete in a league with Tom Brady and Bellichek. They won’t have to play the Jets either. The NFC West is 49ers, seahawks, and Cardinals. It is so much easier to win in that division than in ours, and the expectation is that he wins and competes. St Louis would be happy at 9-7 and being a wildcard. Ross has high expectations but he is a knee-jerk reactor. If he followed a plan and treated people well then high profile people might want to come to Miami. St Louis is the much easier, less stressful, more stable job.
tightypatwhitey - January 8, 2012
Good calls.
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
Also the Fans have very high expectations in Miami.
PotM - January 8, 2012
Good points
I don’t buy the idea that any coach worth a hill beans is afraid of Bellichek and Brady. An Fisher is from SoCal not the mid-west. What I do buy is the idea that a coach will want some say in coaches on his staff, players, and a FO. I don’t think Fisher is going to come and say he wants his own FO people. It would be in his best interest to have some say though.
FinFanFromCA - January 9, 2012
Im waiting to hear them interview Jay Gruden or Rick Dennison
Offensive coordinators for Bengals and Texans. Both have rookie QBs that weren’t first round picks in the playoffs.
BTW Yates was one of my super sleeper QB picks ;-) Its cool seeing him have some success as a rookie. What the Texans do in the off season regarding their QB depth may affect us.
54 - January 8, 2012 via mobile
Leinart
I usually get slayed for saying this, but I’d sign Matt Leinart any day.
Drumzan - January 8, 2012
I would have kept that to myself
21Dave - January 8, 2012
Slay Him!!!
Alpha6 - January 8, 2012
Nicky!
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
Bahahaha
Matt Leinart? Do we just want ANY crap QB as long as his name is Matt?
Little Nicky 21 - January 8, 2012 via Android app
ohhh you already did! haha
civwarbuff - January 8, 2012
I had a vibe that that wasn't going to fly.
civwarbuff - January 8, 2012
Just wait until Little Nicky sees that!
civwarbuff - January 8, 2012
I'm the Crappy QB Warden
Little Nicky 21 - January 8, 2012 via Android app
Mock me all you want
Watch the game between the Cardinals and Titans a few years back. It was the last game of the year and was the year the Cards made it to the Superbowl. Leinart filled in for Warner because Warner was hurt. The decision wasn’t made until late in the week so he had about 2 days notice to prepare, hadn’t played all year and Leinart played like he had been playing all year. I legitimately think Leinart has never gotten a fair shot. And it’s really crappy he got injured in his Texans debut because I thought he was going to silence all his critics. Oh well! Maybe next year.
Drumzan - January 10, 2012
No Fisher or Mularkey
I just don’t see what either one of these two former coaches could bring to the table. As i have said before, either keep the current coach or higher a first time head coach. After the 0-7 start seems like we played well after that. 6-3 isn’t bad for a team with nothing to play for. Need some tweaks on offense. Line and a possible qb. I think moore did a good job, didn’t hear marshall complain about him.
yappy007 - January 8, 2012
I'm so glad they fired Sparano with 3 games left to get that Jump Start...
Another failure by the ownership… Ross is a true bonehead.
Bill Moody - January 8, 2012
How?
Because, by league rules, they couldn’t interview anyone until the season was over. So, on Sunday they beat the Jets. On Monday, they interviewed Todd Bowles, satisfying the Rooney Rule. On Tuesday, they interviewed and offered the job to Fisher.
Sounds like they got a jump start to me. They were the first team to start interviews. The first team to interview Fisher, their number one choice.
What was the bonehead move here?
Kevin Nogle - January 8, 2012
Because fans always have to find something so the can go “See, see I told you!”.
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
LOL
Alpha6 - January 8, 2012
Well Mosul, I think when judging the decision to fire Tony Sparano
the ultimate decider is whether or not the move impacted this teams chances in wiining the last three games of the year. If it does then despite the other benefits of the move, IMO Ross is obligated to wait until the end of the season. With hindsight I think the jury is still out. I really like the way Todd Bowles handled the situation, he allowed Daboll and Nolan to gameplan and coordinate with seemingly no interference and he continued primarily with his duties as Secondary Coach. However in New England when things began to go wrong, not only schematically but more so motivationally the team had noone to weather the storm. As a leader Todd Bowles is a non-entity (at least in the Head Coaching capacity), and when things began to go wrong the team was never able to find stability. Leadership at Head Coach was desperately needed and the team had none.
Whether or not Tony Sparano could have provided that stability is debatable and it would be dangerous to assume that he could considering what this team has gone through, but the team did love and adore playing for him. If he could have made an impact than I think Ross’ decision was the wrong one and jeopardized the team.
civwarbuff - January 8, 2012
Jeopardized them how?
I guess that I just do not grasp how it matter in the least. He was gone at the end of the year one way or another if for no other reason then the way the team started the season.
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
Im not saying it did, Im saying IF it jeopardized the team the way I detailed or otherwise
than the decision was the wrong one. He was obviously out at the end of the year, and Im talking about the Bills game, The Patriots game and the Jets game. Ross ’ obligation is to his team first and that team had three games to play. His judgement in that situation has to consider that, I hope it did and I give him the benefit of the doubt that it did.
All I said is that the jury is still out on what that impact was as I detailed, see comment above.
civwarbuff - January 8, 2012
Honestly, from where I was standing the team needed something after that Philly game where they looked
like they did not have a clue what they were doing. I say trying something is better then trying nothing at all.
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
Well that game really went wrong for a few reasons completely out of his control.
Jake Long was knocked out of the game and Vernon Carey was nicked up and taken out for the entire second half. Really the game was one terrible Quarter of play (the second) where the team suddenly couldn’t run the ball, couldn’t protect Matt Moore especially from the edge pass rush in the wide 9 defense and as a result began to turn the ball over and got him knocked out of the game. Coupled with a few gaffs on defense notably the broken coverage between Davis and Bell and it was a 24 to nothing quarter.
I mixed feelings about the move coming when it did.
civwarbuff - January 9, 2012
Yes, but as is the unspoken rule of the NFL, when the team plays bad the coach gets the blame. Was it lack of proper coaching, lack of proper motivation or was everything done as well as could be expected on the coaching front and the players just did not play well that day? Who knows but in the end you can not entice change by cutting the entire roster so it is usually the coach that gets the ax. Fair? Probably not but just one of those things that are what they are in this world.
texascowpunk - January 9, 2012
Fire him, dont fire him? Either way he was going to get accused of being a poor owner for it.
Who cares? What did it affect or change? Find something solid to use to attack the man or better yet don’t attack him at all and realize that he is doing the best he can and as a long time fan wants the best for the team just like the rest of us.
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
Experience
Thats what you look for in a head coach. The ability to manage the players and the staff and a game. The ability to prepare and adjust. Savvy. Knowledge.
With a former coordinator, and even with a guy like Sparano, there is a learning curve. They grow into the role. Sparano was changing his style to suit the team right up and until the end.
Yes, Fisher is a defensive minded guy…but so is Belichick. So was Don Shula for that matter. Good coaches use the talents available to them. Writing Fisher off as a “defensive guy” and Ross for hiring a “defensive guy” is just ignorance.
What would disqualify Fisher as a good coach in my mind, would be if he were afraid to sign with Miami because he’d have to face New England twice a year. (This is something that Peter King suggested…that the HC for the Rams would have a more realistic shot at winning the division than Miami, who – in King’s opinion – won’t win the division for many years because Belichick and Brady aren’t going anywhere). I wouldn’t want any coach who’s thinking has us already ceding victories to division rivals before the games are played. Fortunately, I think that’s just ball-less speculation and over-adoration of the Pats on King’s part and not anything that plays into Fisher’s thinking.
The fact is, if Fisher wants the Rams he’d have been quiet and said nothing until after the Rams satisfied the Rooney rule then signed with them. Miami has a realistic shot at landing him (Though if I were to guess, he’ll still sign with the Rams due to his connections). I know others have their own opinions on who should be HC, and that’s fine, but if we were to land Fisher, hopefully, he’d be welcomed to the team by fans…not hissed and booed at like so many fans seem to do lately whenever they don’t like something.
mikem1224 - January 8, 2012
coach tied to QB
Who is the coach will not matter so much without a QB. Consider:
Falcons with and without Ryan
Lions with and without Stafford
Fins with and without Marino
Bills with and without Kelly
Broncos with and without Elway
We cannot mortgage (trade) the whole draft to move up for Griffin but we need a QB. Our best option is to sign Philbin and hope he lures Flynn here. Flynn is showing he is ready for a starting role and he would come to a system (Philbin’s) that he was familiar and comfortable with.
FWE - January 8, 2012
Flynn showed he's ready to start
By playing well in one game?
Hooray AJ Feeley.
Little Nicky 21 - January 8, 2012 via Android app
This is one of the reasons that I don't want Philbin, because then it becomes more likely the Phins will go after Flynn.
ct1361 - January 8, 2012
True
I don’t understand why Philbin is getting buzz as a HC candidate, but Carmichael isn’t. Carmichael calls plays in NO, Philbin does not.
Little Nicky 21 - January 8, 2012 via Android app
I'm thinking Carmichael will get mentioned when he becomes available. As long as the Saints are playing, without a bye, he can't be interviewed.
Like you though, I like Carmichael more than Philbin, mainly because I don’t think he will be bringing Chase Daniels with him. :)
ct1361 - January 8, 2012
But Philbin is being talked about
How is he available?
Little Nicky 21 - January 8, 2012 via Android app
He has time with the bye
Farorefox - January 9, 2012 via mobile
He has time with the bye
Farorefox - January 9, 2012 via mobile
Payton and Sparano are best friends
I don’t think Carmichael would take the job. Payton and Sparano will have talked enough about what the real issues are with this team. An that might be enough to scare off Carmichael. IMO
FinFanFromCA - January 9, 2012
AJ FEELEY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Where is he? Can we get him? I bet he will be great!
Oooo…Scott Mitchell. Is he available?
Kevin Nogle - January 8, 2012
I seriously hope the Fins give Jay Gruden a legitimate shot!
JP 23 - January 8, 2012
Thought this was gonna be fun
But The waiting game sucks, and I don’t want to see Nolan gone. Watching the Dolphins pass on decent free agents, surprising draft picks,possibly a whole new coaching staff with a new leader under center. This is HECTIC!
Goon305Boy10 - January 8, 2012 via mobile
I'd hate to see Nolan leave too BUT
..for as decent as our defense was, we choked and blew late leads against teams like Cleveland and Dallas.
It may be forgivable to some that we lost to New England, but Nolan didn’t have answers for them when it mattered either.
My point is that for all Nolan brings, there was still plenty to be desired.
mikem1224 - January 8, 2012
I desire a Dick Butkus like MLB!
Alpha6 - January 8, 2012
Yeah at 6'3 and 245# he must have seemed like a monster when he came out in the mid 60's.
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
... coupled with his sideline-to-sideline speed.
When he lined up over the Center he would spit on the football.
Hahahahahaha, try that now?
Alpha6 - January 8, 2012
Yeah I don't know how his actual skills would translate to todays game but I would still give him quite the fighting chance.
Some players would get killed in today’s game and others would still be studs. Jim Brown is another!
texascowpunk - January 8, 2012
Shula effect
Shula always surrounded himself with great ass’t coaches….his coaches left for head coaching jobs elsewhere and mostly failed r.e arnsbarger and clark for example…you do not become elite by copying other teams success…great coaches think ahead of the current into the future…Shula took a losing fins team with a good qb (griese) and backup(morrall) to three straight super bowls by exploiting his teams strengths…OL and running game and a solid defense…it takes 45 players to achieve greatness…Marinos reign made that obviuos…once shula lost both qb’s at baltimore and made rb tom matte his qb for a win in the playoff bowl..played prior to 1970 between the 3rd and 4th best nfl teams…sparano tried with the running game first but we had OL woes and he failed…we need an innovative coach not a copycat…hope Ross finds that guy…some young coach with the mentality and aggressiveness of a harbaugh not a retread like fisher…Go dolfindthat co
ptLsteve - January 8, 2012
Tom Olivadoti was just an "ASS" coach!
dohboy24 - January 8, 2012
The biggest reason to want Fisher as the HC is competency.
Since Don Shula, the most competent HC for the Miami Dolphins has been Dave Wannstedt. (I don’t consider Jimmy Johnson because I don’t think he worked real hard in Miami, not like he did in Dallas) How sad is that?
Saban, Cameron, Sparano haven’t been competent HC’s in the NFL. I know Fisher is. All the other Coordinators being interviewed now by the Phins, who knows whether they are or not?
This team needs a HC that has been there and done that. Fisher is the only guy right now that fits that bill.
ct1361 - January 8, 2012
shula effect
sorry go dolphins and finf that agressive coach
ptLsteve - January 8, 2012
you all did not see my inside scoop on the coach, go back and read it, the first thread yesterday
21Dave - January 8, 2012
Dave I won't let you do that to people.
civwarbuff - January 8, 2012
haha
21Dave - January 8, 2012
Lol
civwarbuff - January 8, 2012
Have to try
21Dave - January 8, 2012
You reminded me of this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SEqt1-Xvh3w&feature=related
Alpha6 - January 8, 2012
haha
21Dave - January 8, 2012
Pat Carmichael
The Saints OC has been calling plays since Sean Payton got his leg broke in the TB game and the Saints offense has actually improved! Too bad Ross and Ireland are in such a hurry to get a head coach.
dohboy24 - January 8, 2012
Who says they are in a hurry?
They want Fisher. If they don’t get him, who’s to say they don’t wait and see what happens with NO?
Kevin Nogle - January 8, 2012
Don't want Carmichael, doesn't know how to use Bush.
Which is big since he is an offensive minded coach.
PotM - January 8, 2012
This is dumb
Little Nicky 21 - January 9, 2012 via Android app
Agreed
Bush’s problem was that he was constantly trying to beat defenders to the edge instead of taking holes and following blocks, and he went backwards/ side to side in futile attempts to outrun the D.
Farorefox - January 9, 2012 via mobile
In 2010, he became more of a one cut runner that he was this year, but Bush didn't see
the success in 2010 for numerous reasons, one of them had to be Carmichael. We just settled our #1 back issue for a long time, I don’t want us to just throw Bush away.
PotM - January 9, 2012
Carmicael used Sproles in the same fashion he tried to use Bush in.
Sproles is a receiving back that can thrive in that scat back role, while Bush is a premiere back that can catch. That is a significant difference. Bush runs with more power and, imo, better vision and speed. Sproles runs with much better agility though.
If Bush is a clone of any HB in this league, it has to be CJ 2000. Both are extremely fast and quick runners that are one cut and go type guys. Both have extraordinary speed that can make Ds pay for the blitz. Neither are power backs, but are tough to bring down.
PotM - January 9, 2012
Totally agree with this...
I argue with Saints fans about this all the time. They say Sproles is a better back and I’m like no he might be a better scatback but I don’t think Sproles could excel at being featured.
TAYDIGGA - January 9, 2012
In 2009 this happened. I think the reason he wasn’t doing so was because he had different expectations of what was going to happen with his usage with the Saints and when he saw that he wasn’t getting more than a few touches a game, he would try to take one to the house every time and sometimes totally whiff.
TAYDIGGA - January 9, 2012
Billick
I wonder why they aren’t considering Billick. He already stated a few weeks ago that he would listen to any team’s offers. And he has shown both offensive and defensive minded approaches with success. I don’t understand the problem. I think he would be a great addition and an experienced proven coach.
miamimike71 - January 8, 2012 via mobile
No one is checking out Billick.
Looks like Fisher is meeting with Rams QB Bradford. I think this is a done deal him going to STL.
Philbin won’t be available until after superbowl. That’s not good for the draft. It’s anyones guess who the next HC will be now.
BahamaDolfan - January 8, 2012
2012 versus 1972
another thing that affects todays gamehe 6 is GREED….today players are paid millions….in the 60’s and 70’s most players had outside jobs to make ends meet….Its difficult to motivate a player making $5 or $10 million when the head coach is making $2 million…how many businesses do employees make 5 times the cash of their bosses?…look at other sports…the old yankees teams from the 1920’s to 1970’s…the celtics of the 60’s…4 and 5 year championship runs…since the superbowl started after the 1966 season no team has ever won three super bowls in a row…with the salary cap no team can stay together very long and the lifespan of nfl players is very short compared to baseball and basketball players…look at the Bills of the 90’s 4 straight super bowls and all losses…football is a different game from other sports and free agency makes it impossible for a team to be a dynasty anymore and the salary cap too
ptLsteve - January 8, 2012
REALLY?!?
i gotta disagree with ct1361 since shula the most competant hc was wanstandt? are you outta your mind? he forced out marino, when he still had at least 2-4 years left of playing potential, and decimated the roster with shoddy drafting.like it or not, parcells built the roster back up and i think with some additional additions this team could be playoff contenders
guinnessman - January 8, 2012
I'm not saying that Wannstedt was good! I think he sucked big time.
(Plus, Parcels didn’t coach). What I was saying is that since Shula, not one coach has been competent. When Dave Wannstedt is the most competent of the bunch, you know that is a problem.
ct1361 - January 8, 2012
mularkey
NY 24 ATL 2…ya just the kind of coach miami needs…dont even call this clown
paul wall 1962 - January 8, 2012
I blame that offensive non-showing on Ryan.
PotM - January 9, 2012
He has a number one in White, a great WR in Jones, and a very good #2 in Jenkins.
He also has a crafty vet TE in Gonzales. Then he has that awesome line and Turner to balance the attack. On top of that he has an imaginative play caller that is known for his trick play. Ryan couldn’t do anything with all of that.
PotM - January 9, 2012
If Ross is the NFL's New
Big Spender than I hope he spends on people who actually play.Look at the Marlins, they have a new manager, but along with him came all the new players.A new head coach wont mean as much as perceived (in the first year)unless there are more players added.I knew the Marlins were waiting to get out of paying rent to the owner of SunLife stadium for Loria to open up his wallet.Now the Marlins have a new Stadium,a new Manager,and several new players.I think this will prove successful for Loria because he has created a lot of hope,and at least this year the fans will frequent the games more consistently.If the Dolphins are to do the same a new coach alone might increase the interest initially, but after a few losses the fans will realize they need more playing talent also.
broxtone - January 8, 2012
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