Would Steve Spagnuolo Actually Be A Great Hire?
by JasonB on Jan 3, 2012 11:03 AM EST
in Philadelphia Eagles News
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PrintEver since rumors broke that Steve Spagnuolo would be fired by the Rams, Eagles fans (myself included) have been hoping for him to be brought in here as the new defensive coordinator. He was the guy in charge of the great Giants defense that won a Superbowl and cut his teeth right here in Philadelphia as Jim Johnson's assistant. So he does have a track record of success as a coordinator and obviously has that Jim Johnson pedigree.
However, before we get too ga-ga about the idea of Spags running the defense, we can't ignore the job he did as a head coach. He was historically bad. In fact, no head coach has ever lost more games over their first three years than Spags did. The Rams were 10-38 during his tenure. The only coach to win fewer games over their first three years was Burt Bell, who coached the Eagles from 1936-38.
According to ESPN Stats & Info, the Rams have been outscored by 514 points during Spags tenure. That 174 points more than even the second worst team over that time. While part of that is certainly due to their league worst offense over that time, Spags hasn't even managed to field a decent defense. The Rams have given up the 7th most points in the league over his tenure. If this guy was truly the defensive genius he's made out to be, couldn't he do any better than that?
Plus, we can't forget that he ran the Giants defense for only two seasons. In his first year, the Giants' D ranked 17th and improved to 5th in his second and final year. So really, we are talking about a guy who was an abysmal head coach and has had exactly one good year as a coordinator and one great playoff run. Granted, it got him a ring, but it's not exactly a fat resume.
So while if the Eagles did in fact bring him, I'm sure we'd all see it as a positive. But let's not forget that he's not a sure thing and there's a reason he's available right now.
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Is he the best DC ever?
No.
Is he better than Juan?
Yes.
Next question.
Ed Snider is a crotchety old fuck.
That is all.
by EREX21 on Jan 3, 2012 11:09 AM EST reply actions 5 recs
Agreed
El Donkerino (if you're not into the whole brevity thing).
I miss me some Brian Dawkins :(
by El Donkerino on Jan 3, 2012 11:11 AM EST up reply actions
As I posted elsewhere
The Eagles went from a bottom third D last year to a top 10 D this one. This despite the fact the offense went from about 5 turnovers last year to about 173 this year.
That Juan sucks, all right!
"Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body."
― Seneca
by NJBammer on Jan 3, 2012 11:25 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Did I say Juan sucks?
No I did not. I just said Spags was better.
Ed Snider is a crotchety old fuck.
That is all.
I am unconvinced
that your statement is true.
"Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body."
― Seneca
That's fine.
But that doesn’t addressed the fact that you said:
“That Juan sucks, all right!”
When I never said those words or even hinted it being the case.
If you want to push the agenda that Juan was a good, or even decent DC then please by all means, I won’t stop you, but don’t twist what I say around.
Ed Snider is a crotchety old fuck.
That is all.
Though your point is correct
the implication of most posters is the JC is now cannon fodder – I think any analysis of the defense will lead to the conclusion that he has done at the very least a competent job, and arguably a fine one. The “Juan sucks” comment was a hyperbolic attempt to frame the debate in such a way as to lead the reader to consider the opposite might be true, and not a personal attack on the wording of your post.
"Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body."
― Seneca
by NJBammer on Jan 3, 2012 11:46 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Fantastic.
I think I agree with your overall point, but I also see a defense that yes, while it got better, did so against some pretty bad offenses. So I honestly don’t know what to think.
The way I see it. I don’t think the Eagles are as close to winning a Super Bowl, or even competing for one as many do, and because of that, I’d be willing to give Juan another year.
But for those who see this team as a DC and a player from winning a title then I guess they believe that the Eagles can’t afford to be patient with Juan so a change has to be made now.
Ed Snider is a crotchety old fuck.
That is all.
I personally think
the Eagles were only a play away from winning the NFC East (take your pick which one from the early season) or a Michael Vick slide away from the same (had he not lost the time to the busted ribs).
If nothing changes and we have 100% exactly the same staff/personnel next year, I suspect we will be favorites to win the NFC by quite a bit.
"Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body."
― Seneca
Again
I think you’re using hyperbole. Yes, Birds were multiple plays away from another division championship—and an one-and-out in the playoffs. They are light years behind Green Bay and New Orleans. Nothing they do can make them the favorites to win the NFC next year. They will have to go out and earn respect on the field next year, not in the offseason.
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 11:56 AM EST up reply actions
Come on man
Spags defenses were dominant for a 20 game stretch there….. u dont think hes better than Juan? lol !!!
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
I am used to your bombastic rhetoric
and I frequently agree with your points, but looking at the season right now, I think an argument can quite easily be made that JC did a good job, and deserves a chance to do a better one.
"Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body."
― Seneca
by NJBammer on Jan 3, 2012 11:57 AM EST up reply actions 2 recs
As odd as it sounds
Juan’s first year as a DC was better than Spags was over 16 games.
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by JasonB on Jan 3, 2012 11:32 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
I agree. And I made that case about a week ago, or rather, made the case that Juan wasn’t as God awful as people made him sound and that if he was fired, someone could take a chance on him simply because he fielded a top 10 defense in his first year coaching defense at any level.
Ed Snider is a crotchety old fuck.
That is all.
I had a bad feeling
That the last four weeks against terrible, unmotivated losers would give everyone the sense the Eagles were better than they are.
Just five weeks ago they got crushed by a pathetic Seahawks team. Keep that in mind.
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 11:58 AM EST up reply actions
Was that the game
where we played Sunday and flew to the West Coast to play a Thursday game against a team which was in the middle of winning 5 f 6 games?
"Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body."
― Seneca
by NJBammer on Jan 3, 2012 12:00 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Yes
The one where you’re supposed to beat lousy teams with no QB, even without significant preparation, instead of whining about the schedule and making other excuses (something the Eagles have never been good at).
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 12:09 PM EST up reply actions
Just more proof of how easy it is to play in the NFL. Right?
I like turtles.
by Bleediots on Jan 3, 2012 12:22 PM EST via mobile up reply actions 1 recs
2012
Apparently, it’s going to be a lot easier in 2012, when Juan Castillo is going to be a really good DC after 1 year of coaching defense in the NFL or college, and the Eagles are going to be the NFC East favorites.
Who knew the best way to get a DC was to just randomly pick a position coach who works 22 hours a day?
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 12:27 PM EST up reply actions
If you want the rainbow
you have to put up with the rain. We all knew it would be a learning process for Juan. Every new coordinator goes through hard knocks learning the position. Was it the right move for a team supposedly going all in? No. But now that we have made it through the year and he is showing signs of promise, maybe the rainbow isn’t so far off anymore. Just sayin
Born in North Carolina; raised a Philly fan
The blood in my veins is red but when you cut me it turns GREEN!!
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by CarolinaGreen on Jan 3, 2012 1:54 PM EST up reply actions
I disagree. Cowboys were highly motivated (well, as motivated as they get) as were the Dolphins. Jets are underachievers but talented. I won’t argue about the Skins. IMO, we lost to terrible unmotivated losers like the Cards but did put together a respectable streak at the end. Also, I put the Seahawks loss on VY.
by Fenton_Hardy on Jan 3, 2012 12:23 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Cowboys
The Eagles D shut them down even when Romo was in there and there was no doubt about their motivation.
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Boys
This is the same Tony Romo that got beat by Josh Skelton a few weeks ago? Skelton and the Cardinals are TERRIBLE. I mean, Castillo’s defense would DESTROY that team. Oh, wait….
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 12:32 PM EST up reply actions
Come on
You can play that game for every team in the league.
Did you now the Patriots did not beat a single team with a winning record this year?
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by JasonB on Jan 3, 2012 12:36 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Nope
But I like knowing it. That’s why I read this blog.
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 12:49 PM EST up reply actions
The Saints lost to Rams.
And they lost to the Bucs once. That makes the Saints super shitty right? Right?
Clear eyes, full bologna sandwiches!
Eagles
If you watched the games as I did (and I am sure you did), you’d know the Eagles were a shitty team with a super shitty defense this year.
That’s why many of us are scratching our heads that smart fans like you are saying our mediocre O-Line DC should be retained over an available, experienced, Superbowl-winning DC who knows JJ’s system, because a few stats show some signs of improvement, while simply watching a game would show he was over-matched.
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 12:53 PM EST up reply actions
He didn't look overmatched in the few weeks that ended the season.
He looked overmatched early on though, no argument. You were making the argument that losing to shitty teams makes a team shitty. That was how you responding to the claim that the D has improved and finished strong. If losing to shitty teams is the only marker for whether or not a team is any good, then the Saints are shitty by that logic. Which you and I both know is ridiculous.
The season started. We lost to a bunch of bad teams. We looked overmatched and confused. But the D stopped looking confused, stopped looking overmatched and starting beating bad teams. AKA The defense improved. While we lost to bad teams early, we beat bad teams late. That cannot be denied.
For the record I would be totally on board with Spags as our DC, but Jason’s point should not be disregarded so lightly. There is a valid argument for Castillo coming back and there is a valid argument that Spags may be overrated as a DC. Those arguments should be part of the discussion.
Clear eyes, full bologna sandwiches!
Improvement
I am acknowledging the improvement, and the validity of the debate. But I am arguing the improvement alone does not warrant another season for Juan, nor make him a better choice than Spags.
The question remains: is Spags better for the Eagles in 2012 than Juan? Jason’s post is valid, in that six weeks ago, that question was laughable. Now, AR (and Lurie) will have to sit down and come up with an answer.
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 1:23 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Ok:
But I am arguing the improvement alone does not warrant another season for Juan, nor make him a better choice than Spags.
I don’t disagree with that argument. I just didn’t really pick up on that before.
Clear eyes, full bologna sandwiches!
why does none of the blame for this game fall on the offense?!
remember that vince young threw 4 (!!!!) INTs in that game. one of which was returned for a TD. thats 7 points right there that had nothing to do with the D.
this is the game where no one on D could tackle, remember? nothing but missed tackles. at least the defender was in position to make a play to stop the runner, which says that the defensive alignment was at least decent enough to put the guys in the right spots. its too bad that no one could tackle for a night…
by RogerPodacter on Jan 3, 2012 12:39 PM EST up reply actions
In one sense, yes. But it’s easy to forget that defensive performance isn’t all the DC — if it was, you wouldn’t bother spending money on good players! This defense was expected to be one of the top five in the league, and it wasn’t. I think it’s still quite arguable that the defense underachieved under Castillo, even if not dramatically so.
Rams fan here, and writer at TST
He would be a good hire for you guys. Stats might not say he’s defense was good this year, but it was. He uses his secondary a lot to blitz, but we lost 10 corners so all we could do is play zone. Also the defense which only had average players did good for 3 quarters in most of the games, but they simply got tired in the 4th quarter because the offense couldn’t do nothing and they were always on the field.
His system would work perfect for you guys.
Is that great man formally known as Tevin T. Broner, also I'm on twitter Follow @T_Bron
Great info and thanks. I’m thinking the same thing. Kinda how the Jets D is being disrespected when actually it’s because of their total lack of offense…and Mark Sanchez.
"If I can get you to think twice, I'm in your head."
-Brian Dawkins
#HireSpags
yeah you guys have more talent than we do.
Even though most Ram fans hate him, everyone respects him. He might not be the best DC, but he is above average at least. Only thing is here he neglected to get another DT and outside linebackers, I don’t know if it’s because he doesn’t really value them as high in his schemes or if it was an ego thing.
Is that great man formally known as Tevin T. Broner, also I'm on twitter Follow @T_Bron
by Tevin Broner on Jan 3, 2012 11:19 AM EST up reply actions
could’nt you say the same thing about OUR defense???
sure, our offense put up a lot of yards this year, but led the league in turnovers.
if you are going to say the jets D or the rams D is better than it appears because of how bad their offense was, you at least need to give a little of that same appreciation to our D.
yes, i know, our offense wasnt nearly as bad as either of those two teams, but turnovers hurt. so does going 3 and out repeatedly. its the same argument – our defense is on the field too much therefore giving up more yards and more points.
by RogerPodacter on Jan 3, 2012 11:32 AM EST up reply actions
I’m having a hard time seeing how you could call the Rams defense “good” by any measure.
Near the bottom of the leauge in yards per game, points per game, second worst rush defense,
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Not having any good DT's hurt
Also we lack any good OLBs. When I said good, I meant good/great with what he had. We used to blitz a lot. It hurts when everyone is in coverage.
Is that great man formally known as Tevin T. Broner, also I'm on twitter Follow @T_Bron
by Tevin Broner on Jan 3, 2012 11:51 AM EST up reply actions
Well, why didn’t he have talent at those positions?
His mentor, Jim Johnson, was pretty much the same way. Blitzed a ton, didn’t seem to stress LBs….
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So in essence our personnel(minus MLB) is perfect for what Spags would like to do.
Shady is the man.
is what spags wants to do the plan for success? who knows…
by RogerPodacter on Jan 3, 2012 12:40 PM EST up reply actions
Excuse me, did you say you lost 10 corners?
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Wikipedia puts it at 6
I don’t think any coordinator is going to be hugely successful starting their 7th and 8th choice CBs :p
Ok...
But what is his excuse for the previous two years then?
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I'm not trying to make one - in fact I almost wrote that myself
Although if you’re accepting that he’s a poor head coach, then having not filled holes on D would be a possible reason for failure?
Sure it is, but as the head coach, how much of that was his responsibility? At least some.
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Yes, but it's a responsibility he wouldn't have here
If he sucks at drafting, that’s okay. We would need him to create a good defense out of the pieces that he’s given (and the pieces he will be given are much better than he had in SL)
I don’t know, and I think it’s well worth asking the question. My opinion is still that I’d like to see Juan back in some capacity, ideally as DC. If you’re not going to keep him, then Spags is as good of an option as any.
I kind of figured this post would be coming. He’s definitely not a sure thing, but he’s probably better than any other option out there, and he’s readily available. No one will hire him as a head coach any time soon, and Philadelphia is logically the most likely destination as a DC based on the information we have at this point in time. The problems in STL were more related to personnel than schemes, and in Philadelphia he should at least have solid players to work with.
Look what he did with the Giants; dismantling one of the greatest offenses of all time. I don’t want to sound like a homer, but with a good offseason, we will have 10 times more talent that their D (hell, we may even have it now).
There is absolutely no reason why he shouldn’t at the very least be interviewed, especially with Fewell to most likely stay in NY.
Spags, Mel Tucker, Del Rio, or Jeff Fisher…I truly hope 1 of those guys are gonna be our new D-coordinator.
On another note…YAY!!
"If I can get you to think twice, I'm in your head."
-Brian Dawkins
#HireSpags
Fisher will be HC somewhere. Del Rio is a possibility. I’d get him on the horn asap incase Spags doesn’t work out.
Ed Snider is a crotchety old fuck.
That is all.
Agreed
Del Rio should definitely get at least a look. He’s one of those coaches who had a good defensive mind, but got promoted beond his level of confidence. Like I said when he was first fired, we could use a guy with significant LB experience, so I think Del Rio might be a good fit.
by Bob_Q on Jan 3, 2012 11:39 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Yes, look what he did with the Giants in one game.
THen look at the rest of his resume.
Doesn’t really matchup does it?
I’m just saying that it worries me. We all have his work with the Giants as basically our last impression of him. Meanwhile, he’s been off in St Louis compiling a historically bad record and taking a bad team and making it worse. That is concerning.
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But there has been so many bad HCs that are good O/D-coordinators.
"If I can get you to think twice, I'm in your head."
-Brian Dawkins
#HireSpags
True, although usually those coordinators need more than two seasons to get a job.
Spags got his HC job very quick. IT’s not like he’s got years of coordinator success on his resume.
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He got that job because of what he did in NY. He may have still been in NY if they never beat the Pats.
"If I can get you to think twice, I'm in your head."
-Brian Dawkins
#HireSpags
Very true.
"Obviously, I lobbied for him to be here. But what a difference a year makes." -- Donovan McNabb
by thePurpleLion on Jan 3, 2012 11:52 AM EST up reply actions
Bingo
thank you for pointing this out Jason. I tried to make this point a little while ago and it was not warmly received. Spags seems like one of those times where fans get an idea in their heads and there is no changing their minds. I’m not saying that he wouldn’t do well here, I just think fans should step back study all the options and make informed decisions based on their own analysis.
Cowboys suck.
I just think fans should step back study all the options and make informed decisions based on their own analysis.
And then what? Have the FO put your OL coach at DC??? Cmon man man, quit that fuckin shit!!!!
Who gives a fuck who WE want as a DC?
Formerly BWestFactor
FLY #7 FLY !
by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 11:48 AM EST up reply actions
Your right the FO
probably doesn’t care what the fans think. Part of the reason for that is that, if things were left up to the fans they would make knee jerk, unreasoned decisions. The reason fans should think carefully about these things is so that they can better understand why things happen the way they do. This is the same as the “run the ball” or “we need a big receiver” arguments.
Cowboys suck.
Yeh but Spags is a proven commodity in a system similar to the Eagles with what we currently have as personel. He did a good job here and a similar job with the Ginas running a similar system with similar type players. It doesnt matter to me how he did as a HC. Those are two very different jobs. Why would it not be ok for fans to want a guy like Spags if the FO thinks he’s a good fit? Ive thouyght about it dude, this isnt a knee jerk reaction.
Formerly BWestFactor
FLY #7 FLY !
by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 11:58 AM EST up reply actions
Does it really not matter how he did as a HC or do you just not want your positive view of him to be tarnished?
He was in charge of the defense there too… And did a terrible job.
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Can’t deny it, and I don’t.
Formerly BWestFactor
FLY #7 FLY !
by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 12:18 PM EST up reply actions
The point is he isn’t a proven commodity. One year does not equal that.
Eagles: Season, but they'll be back with a vengeance next year. #KeepAndyReid
Flyers: On a nice roll
Phillies: Looking to next year
So how many SBs do you have to win to be a “proven commodity” ….and where do you find the guys who have won enough to be Your savior?
Formerly BWestFactor
FLY #7 FLY !
by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 1:12 PM EST up reply actions
I don’t look at SBs as the measuring stick. See Dilfer, Trent.
I look at the numbers and history. If Dick LeBeau was available, there is no argument- many years of top defenses.
But if we are replacing a one year decent DC with another, what’s the point?
I’m not arguing that Spags won’t be better than Juan, I’m arguing whether he’s better enough to warrant a change, as well as trying to counter the idea that just replace Juan with Spags and the Birds are SB bond.
Eagles: Season, but they'll be back with a vengeance next year. #KeepAndyReid
Flyers: On a nice roll
Phillies: Looking to next year
If the Eagles want to keep running a JJ like system with the current players they have, then Spags is as close as you will get. He ran it in NY and was successful ENOUGH…. if they want to run a new system, then go right ahead, get the guy who wont look like a fuckin moron when he plays Nnamdi in zone all year.
Formerly BWestFactor
FLY #7 FLY !
by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 1:29 PM EST up reply actions
True, Spags is about as close as you can get to bringing back the JJ system.
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Excuse my corny computer engineering/programming lingo:
#import [defensiveCoordinator];
int main() {
char newCoord;
boolean true;
if newCoord != ‘Juan Castillo’ {
then success = true();
}
Else sucess = fail();
}
"If I can get you to think twice, I'm in your head."
-Brian Dawkins
#HireSpags
i give it 2 stars. not a bad effort, but you could do better. ; )
by RogerPodacter on Jan 3, 2012 11:34 AM EST up reply actions
captain obvious?
Born in North Carolina; raised a Philly fan
The blood in my veins is red but when you cut me it turns GREEN!!
Xbox Gamertag is Bleed Greenery for anyone interested in some Madden or Call of Duty
by CarolinaGreen on Jan 3, 2012 1:58 PM EST up reply actions
let's see
you can’t have a single character be a string
the typename is “bool”
you can’t make “true” a variable name, as that’s a defined keyword.
you don’t need “then”
you never defined a variable named “success”, but used it anyway
you treated “true” and “false” as functions when they’re just boolean keywords.
you want to use “==” to compare a value, “=” is an assignment.
and newCoord should be a parameter to the function, (or in this case an argv input) since it isn’t assigned anything by default.
rams D
Rams have 1 good DB Ron Bartell in a passing league that equals disaster.
Rams only have 3-4 good D players
Long
Bartell
Hall
Robbins
Besides that really no1 Gibson is good situational guy and Laurinatis is a pass coverage only LB
Can’t make chicken soup out of chicken SHIT
by SKerwood on Jan 3, 2012 11:32 AM EST via iPhone app reply actions
Always love this excuse
He was the head coach, he had influence in personnel decisions and failed there as well.
There’s no sugar coating or excusing the job he did in STL.
Plus, if you use the lack of talent in STL as an excuse to defend him, don’t you have to use the wealth of talent he had in NY as a mark against him?
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To that end...
what makes a guy a good coach or coordinator? One that turns garbage into gold? If a guy does well with talent then he did what he was expected to do. If he does nothing with no talent then he sucks? I am just asking the question I don’t really have the answer.
Seems like evaluation is only done with results and not taking into consideration the circumstances.
Ed Snider is a crotchety old fuck.
That is all.
That's a good question
Obviously SPags is not a guy that can turn garbage into gold. But in his short time in NY, he obviously did well with the talent he was given.
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Is Spags the GM?
Does he have 100% of the say?
How many of those guys were there before him?
Those questions I would need to know before saying he was a good/bad HC and I don’t know those answers.
I think ppl like to put all the blame on HC or QB when it’s a team/organization thing everyone has to do their part from higher ups, coaches to players
I do know the Rams ain’t such a bad team because of only Spags
by SKerwood on Jan 3, 2012 11:41 AM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
“I do know the Rams ain’t such a bad team because of only Spags”
Sure, but at the same time, you have to admit that he was part of the problem. You can’t possibly absolve the HC for such a poor record over his time there.
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If he’s here, wouldn’t it be better because he doesn’t have control of personal (in not being a HC or the dealing with who gets drafted or signs as a FA.
"If I can get you to think twice, I'm in your head."
-Brian Dawkins
#HireSpags
Maybe. Like I said in the post, I’m just asking the question here.
I’ve been pretty clear that I’d like to see him here. However, my point is that he’s not the sure thing some of us think and in reality his resume is more bad than good.
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The Facts...
You can be a good coach on a losing/bad football team!
by SKerwood on Jan 3, 2012 11:47 AM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
Definitely the fact
Though Eagles fans don’t view things so pragmatically when it comes to the Eagles!
I’m Pro Andy, Pro Juan, Pro Eagles everything even like Spags because he was once involved but rather have Juan
THE PLAYERS AND COACHES LIKE HIM!
by SKerwood on Jan 3, 2012 11:57 AM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
LIKED HIM SOOO MUCH THEY CHANGED HIM BACK TO DEFENSE AFTER BEING ON OLINE AFTER HOW MANY YEARS
by SKerwood on Jan 3, 2012 11:58 AM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
OLine
(And the O-line went from mediocre to awesome in one year. Hmmmm….)
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 12:03 PM EST up reply actions
Yes, but
The personnel was almost completely change. Only Jason Peters at LT remained at the same spot. It’s a completely different unit.
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Yes, but
That’s because Mudd identified that talent and put those guys in there. Mudd got one first rounder, and no other help. Castillo had years and years of high draft picks to work with—and never really put together a great unit.
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 12:13 PM EST up reply actions
Mudd got two draft picks (Kelce & Watkins) and a free agent signing (Mathis).
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He did a great job and I give him tons of credit… but he was coaching a totally different unit.
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That's the point
Mathis was on the street, and Kelce was a 6th round (!) pick. Mudd made those guys into players. He moved Herr-dog to T. All those moves worked perfectly. That’s what good coaches do.
Castillo wasn’t terrible as an O-Line coach, and he did take J. Jackson from a FA to a good C, but he never made guys off the street into pro bowl players. Andy gave him high pick after high pick (and Peters), and the line pretty much stayed good, but never got great.
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 12:23 PM EST up reply actions
Look, I’m not taking anything away from Mudd here. Just pointing out the fact that it’s totally different unit.
Also, Andy did not give Juan “high pick after high pick.”
He gave him Shawn Andrews, who was developed into a pro bowl player.
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Castillo's History
I’m not suggesting you are attacking Mudd. We all give him credit.
I’m just saying Juan was overrated as an O-Line coach. And because of that, he may be overrated now (hard to believe!) by those he defend him as D-coordinator.
Andrews was the #16 pick, and Castillo did not ruin him. But his brother was a total bust, who must have come with Castillo’s recommendation.
Here are the tons of high picks Andy gave Juan to make a great O-line, and it never happened. Lots of busts here; try not to laugh:
5-Topou
4-McGlynn
2-Winston Justice
4-Max Gilles
4-Herrmanns
4-Trey Dajalik
4-Scott Peters
2-Bobby Williams
3-Bryzinski
4-Welbourn
So, was Castillo a great—or even good—developer of talent as an O-Line coach? Definitive no.
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 12:44 PM EST up reply actions
Castillo was a mediocre OL coach, just like he’s a mediocre DC.
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by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 12:46 PM EST up reply actions
Mathis was a highly productive backup G his first shot at a starting job was here I don’t give Mudd credit for Mathis was a player before he was here
by SKerwood on Jan 3, 2012 12:32 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
don’t forget about ryan harris and kyle devan. didnt amount to anything, but he did get two other FA pickups.
by RogerPodacter on Jan 3, 2012 12:44 PM EST up reply actions
Exactly different unit and this OLine is awesome Peters Mathis were A+
Watkins played good enough for me and same with Herremans and We didn’t have many missed blocking assignments on blitzes this year and that’s all Jason Kelce he didn’t play well but called a lot of good games
by SKerwood on Jan 3, 2012 12:14 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
Maybe...
Sure, there are good coaches on bad teams. There are guys who are good assistants but bad head guys…
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Also they were the reasons Rams suck not excuses
by SKerwood on Jan 3, 2012 11:43 AM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
Yes, and they were things he was responsible for.
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hmm
Nice article Jason, HOWEVER
In the game of all games—the game that a genius like Belichick had 2 weeks to prepare for—Spags defense gang raped Tom Brady. That alone is enough for me to consider this a spectacular hire if it happens. Im sure you remember what Belichick did to Castillo this year—I see no evidence based on the last 4 games against shit QB’s that Belichick or any other quality coach/QB wouldnt be ass raping the Eagles D over and over again.
One game vs three years of historically bad coaching?
I mean, if you want to see “ass raping,” take a look at what virtually every team did the Rams for three years. You have this impression of Spags in NY, but I don’t know that you’ve been paying attention to what he’s done since.
All I’m saying is that it’s a concern.
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I’m getting the sense that you may be anti-Spags.
"If I can get you to think twice, I'm in your head."
-Brian Dawkins
#HireSpags
I'm just playing devil's advocate here
Look at the slogan on the site this week. I’m not anti-Spags. In fact, I’m pro Spags.
However, we have to take a critical look at any potential move. And my point is that Spags is not a slam dunk, can’t go wrong type of hire.
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well..
it wasnt just one game. It was an entire playoff run against superior teams. The giant D line was the MVP of that run and Spags was the DC.
The Rams are clearly not on the same talent level as the Eagles and their crappy offense exhausted the defense. Much like the many years when we had a crappy offense and Jim Johnsons D was gassed many games due to all the three and outs and boom or bust offense we used here.
He did a great job with the Giants. I don’t deny that at all.
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so you are willing to give an edge to a short run of games at the end of the season?
by RogerPodacter on Jan 3, 2012 12:45 PM EST up reply actions
The game of games...
Is just another game though, when you really think about it. The Pats have been super strong this year as well, and the Giants still beat them in ‘11. Didn’t need Spags to do it either. Granted the Patriots of old were a more complete team than today’s Pats, but still, the point remains that a great super bowl defensive performance does not absolve or trump the rest of one’s resume. And the rest of the resume for Spags isn’t all that great.
Awww Sh!t.
I just don’t know what to do here. At least I’m admitting it.
Whoever you are, when I log off, you cease to exist.
The operative IQ of a group is no higher than that of it's lowest scoring member.
I reserve the right to hold other posters to a higher standard than I myself maintain. Why? Because I am an unrpentent lout. Deal with it.
Thing is, Spags is the best candidate. He’s better than Castillo, and other than Spags idk who would be better as our DC. I mean people say Del Rio would be good, but would he be better than Spags? I dont think he would. I just think Spags is the best fit. Were not gonna turn into an elite defense I dont think, just a really good one. And if our offense just corrects our turnover woes, than we have a damn good team for next year.
But why is he better than Castillo? Juan has been a DC one year. Spags was a DC two years. Juan’s D finished better than Spags in year one. Is it crazy to think that Juan could have a top five unit in year two like Spags did?
Will Juan then go on to become a terrible head coach?
Look, I have the feeling that Spags is the better defensive guy too… but we have to admit that there are arguments to be made.
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by JasonB on Jan 3, 2012 11:50 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
i agree there are arguments to be made. like i said, i just think Spags is the best fit, and better than any of the other candidates. thats not saying he’s gonna be a sure success and turn us into an elite defense. and i say that Spags would be better than Castillo because i cant imagine Spags would have done some of the things Castillo did on the defensive side of the ball that made us look bad when we did. Have Nnamdi play zone? Come on, the #2 press corner in the game, and you put him in zone most of the year? I cant imagine Spags would have done that
by shadyeagle25 on Jan 3, 2012 11:56 AM EST up reply actions
i couldn’t imagine spags being so god-awful at running a team like he did to STL, either. i thought very highly of him at the time and thought he would do great things in STL, especially after they drafted sam bradford.
you have to face it that it is not a sure thing. there are no guarantees that spags would be better.
by RogerPodacter on Jan 3, 2012 12:49 PM EST up reply actions
I did as well. I thought things looked really good for the Rams there…
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meh you can't always assume continued upward success with a year under the belt
look no further than the mess that is my NY Giants D. same coordinator, mostly same personnel, way different results from year one. there is always a chance the D could regress in year two.
Yes, I am a Giants fan. Now that we got that out of the way....
IMPEACH DOLAN!!!!
The Big Boy Cometh....Team Jacobs
Marines say Oorah; BBVer's say SUAMBP! say it with me - Suuaahmbp!!!!
I’m on the fence. I don’t oppose hiring Spags, but quite honestly I do not think that Castillo is the main problem with the defense. I think that his inexperience magnified problems that already existed, namely sub par personnel at the linebacker and safety positions. I’m not convinced that scapegoating Castillo solves all of our problems on defense.
We have really done a bad job drafting defensive players since the early 2000’s. If that does not change I do not see how Spags makes a difference. And some day we need to get it in your head that you need to field some good linebackers.
Go Eagles!
I'm with you
During their first years as DC Juan has had a better defense statistically than Spags. Why couldn’t Juan improve as dramatically as Spags did from year 1 to year 2?
Cowboys suck.
Did they have the same players? Were they on the same team?
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by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 11:50 AM EST up reply actions
I dont get the comparison as him being a HC vs him being a Coordinator….
DC have specific schemes they implement and they need the specific players to run them. Have we not seen Juan run his fuckin zone scheme with Wide 9 enough to know that? If Spags can run a system similar to JJs and does have some of the players needed to run that scheme (ie good pass rushers & CBs) then he’s a better option. He has proven success with a specific scheme/players. IF …and this is a big IF….IF the FO thinks he can run the similar system here, with our players then thats how you compare the coaches……otherwise its comparing apples and oranges.
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by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 11:55 AM EST up reply actions
Does he have proven success?
Yes, he did a good jn NY and a terrible one in STL. And I’m talking only about defense.
So his resume is more bad than good.
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I just dont compare both jobs. The responsibilities are too different. Some people make great leaders while others are better in a specified role. You just cant compare them both. Some people specialize, some excel at everything…
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by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 12:02 PM EST up reply actions
First of all, I don’t agree with you at all.
But even if I accept your premise, than you can compare what he did with the defense in STL.
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To an extent, yes. But saying that is like blaming Reid for all of Juans fucks ups this year dude. It goes both ways.
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by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 12:15 PM EST up reply actions
Well, I’d say it’s more like blaming Reid for the offenses problems this year, which it completely valid…
But even so, I think it’s fair to put some blame on Reid for Juan’s problems.
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are you serious? most of the people on BGN have been calling for BOTH of their heads – both AR and Juan.
by RogerPodacter on Jan 3, 2012 12:50 PM EST up reply actions
We’re not arguing that point dude….
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by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 1:04 PM EST up reply actions
In Castillo’s defense too I will note that the players seemed to like him, they felt comfortable actually giving him advice, he wasn’t an ego case too cool to take it, and the entire system seemed to improve and gain cohesion as the year went on. This in spite of the issues at LB and elsewhere. If we hire Spags, I would like to keep Juan around at least in an assistant role, both as grooming for the future and as insurance.
Turnovers are the #1 problem facing the team as a whole. There’s absolutely no debate on that.
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Agree, but that was an offensive issue this year. We were middle of the road in takeaways I believe.
My main point is that Castillo was not the main problem, and I don’t think that Spags is the magic wand that you can wave and make everything better. We need better personnel at linebacker especially. We need to draft better on defense as a whole.
Go Eagles!
Yeah that’s what I meant. I agree. IT’s the giveaways.
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i agree with you here.
i want to bring spags back, but also to keep juan. put spags as some sort of assistant HC position, but mostly working with Juan and the D.
by RogerPodacter on Jan 3, 2012 12:51 PM EST up reply actions
I kinda want to keep Juan.
The turnovers on this team killed the defense. I really want to know how many points came of turnovers. You have to give credit where credit is due and Juan has really improved as the season went on.
I'm great like Gatsby.
by Clint Eastwood on Jan 3, 2012 11:50 AM EST via mobile reply actions
Can't deny that
Turnovers are clearly the #1 issue.
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No offense to Juan
but when you’re @ the bottom… it’s pretty difficult to go anywhere but up.
by BleedinGreen116 on Jan 3, 2012 11:53 AM EST up reply actions
The D this year is better than the one from the prior year, FWIW.
"Difficulties strengthen the mind, as labor does the body."
― Seneca
Well with the players we brought in
I’d hope so lol.
by BleedinGreen116 on Jan 3, 2012 11:56 AM EST up reply actions
Speaking of "at the bottom"
That’s where Spags has been for three years and has gotten up…
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its hard to say how many points came from turnovers. it depends on where the other team gets the ball on the field. if its on our side of the field, i don’t fault the D toooooo much. if its on the other side of the field, i fully expect them to hold.
there are also the turnovers that lead directly to points – like VY’s INT returned for a TD vs SEA.
by RogerPodacter on Jan 3, 2012 12:53 PM EST up reply actions
So in the lack of experience department, although Del Rio coached LB’s for 5 years in Baltimore, he has as many years as a D.C as Juan does. Granted, Del Rio’s defense in Carolina was the 2nd best in the league.
Ed Snider is a crotchety old fuck.
That is all.
That's the worriesome part
When a guy has one good year as a coordinator, how much can you really attribute to him? It’s hard to say.
You look at a Jim Johnson or a Dick Lebeau and see years of success and it’s pretty obvious that it’s due to them. But a one off guy, you can’t say that as definitively.
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Exactly. If the Eagles want to make a change after one year of Juan, fine but it better be for someone with a better track record than Del Rio, or Spags. And I don’t see those options being out there.
Ed Snider is a crotchety old fuck.
That is all.
by EREX21 on Jan 3, 2012 11:54 AM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Another issue...
If we hired Spags, would we leave the Wide 9? I honestly think it’s been coming together as a system for us, and I hate the idea of players enduring frequent system changes. Just another factor to consider.
Hard to say
He’s never used it before and it doesn’t seem to jive with his blitzing philosophy.
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Agreed
What do others think about this? Eagles have shifted to an entirely different philosophy under Juan/Wash—is now the time to switch back to a JJ-style blitzing defense?
Building in the comments above, is that really worth it for a “good” DC like Spags, when we have a “pretty good” DC in Juan who is halfway done implementing his defensive scheme (OK, it’s really Washburn’s scheme).
This has potential disaster written all over it.
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 12:07 PM EST up reply actions
I wouldn't be worried about that
If in fact they think Spags is their guy, then I have no problem with them bringing him in and giving him a full offseason to install whatever he wants.
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A list of who Juan had
Cullen Jenkins
NA
Samuel
DRC
Trent Cole
Jason Bain
A list of the Rams D:
Laurenitis
Q Mikkel
Chris Long
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
Three years..
Means no excuses in my book. Especially given the fact that his “strength” is supposedly defense. And let’s be real – Eagles are already tight against the pass; against the run, Spags’ HC tenure was horrendous.
But what? We can all point to a single game here or there – I can certainly do so in defense of Juan, right? We were tight against the pass, the stats are the stats.
yeah against mark sanchez and stephen mcgeee...and rex grossman?
Wow how did Juan do it!?
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
How is that...
Any different than you saying we sucked against the Pats? It is the exact same argument, reversed, which is what I was pointing out. If the Pat put big numbers up on you, that does not mean you had a failed defense, that just means you played the Pats that day.
teams have slowed the pats down in games this year
its possible. its not like the gb packers were only the chiefs on a fluke win have done it.
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
But it's a little like that
Bottom line is at the end of the day, you have to put up big numbers on offense if you plan on beating the Pats. As we all know, our offense was not “there” that day.
and the pats D is pretty terrible. going into that game, we all expected it to be a shoot out. NE came in guns blazing and we barely got a shot off…
by RogerPodacter on Jan 3, 2012 12:55 PM EST up reply actions
As much as we all hate Marty dude,, hes a better Coordinator then he was a HC. The two jobs are completely different. You cant compare them.
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by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 12:00 PM EST up reply actions
I'm not even sure
Mikkel qualifies… I always thought he was hit or miss.
by BleedinGreen116 on Jan 3, 2012 12:00 PM EST up reply actions
safeties are pretty bad around the league this year. judging just by his play in the past years (didnt see him this year), i’d definitely put him pretty high on the list.
by RogerPodacter on Jan 3, 2012 12:56 PM EST up reply actions
The difference is
Juan wasn’t the head coach and didn’t have influence in personnel decisions.
If you’re going to use lack of talent as an excuse for Spags, you have to also acknowledge that it’s partly his fault.
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i dont know how much GM decisions he had
so i can’t assign any blame there without knowing..
meanwhile Juan had all the talent in the world
JJ was a master at masking deficiencies. Even with bad LB play or when Dawkins couldnt cover anymore he masked everyone
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
As others have mentioned though
Our most compromising defensive positions came off of turnovers; that’s not something that we can pin on Juan. And the red zone defense later in the season got appreciably better.
because we didnt play anybody!!!!!
The Jets SUCK, the cowboys SUCK and so do the Redskins and Miami
0 of those teams were playoff teams…
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
How could it not get better? We were dead last !!!
Improvement from nothing is still improvement, ill give you that one. But if we are going to settle for mediocrity on a team that is supposed to be “All-In” in the next few years, we may as well quit now.
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by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 12:07 PM EST up reply actions
That's not the point
Yes, from the bottom you go up. But it was a noticeable improvement. I mean, you have to be completely cynical not to have seen it tighten up.
It can't be a league
Where everyone who’s not 12-4 is considered ‘crappy.’ Redskins are better than their numbers indicate, and whether it was crappy teams or not, it was consistent, across the board, and maintained. Yes, playing a “good” team would have been a better test, but whether it was huge improvement or only marginal improvement, it was improvement. We played ‘crappy’ teams earlier in the year and it didn’t look nearly as tight/cohesive on defense.
none of those teams made the playoffs
that we defensively manhandled. stop sugarcoating those teams, they were mediocre at the very best.the redskins were about deadlast in every stat in offense
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
They almost beat the Pats though, something to think about. But I’ll drop all that.
Look it is what it is. Yes, Juan is not yet ‘proven,’ I definitely get that. It’s just that when you look at Spags’ performance recently, whether due to players skill or what, it doesn’t inspire confidence. He could be the answer. But he might not be. We just all need to be prepared for that.
I saw it dude….im just not convinced by it. What happens when they face good teams and OCs “adjust” to Castillo again? Will it take him 2-3 games to “adjust” right back?
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by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 12:13 PM EST up reply actions
I wouldn’t agree that Juan “had all the talent in the world”
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He certainly had enough.
There were a lot of guys who can play at a pro bowl level.
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
Juan has shown us something and I’m interested to see this D in 2012. Would be more confident in that statement if they beat a top 5 team during the win streak. Nevertheless, it feels like we’d be taking a step backwards with a new DC.
But it’s still a ? mark
Juan has shown has something but has he proven he could shut down a top offense? No
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
Spags had a 20 game stretch of defensive dominance
The DC the year before he was absolutely TERRIBLE!!!!!!!
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
20 games vs three years?
And let’s not act like Spags didn’t have bad game in New York.
In 07 his defense got lit up by the Cowboys twice (45 points, 31 points), Packers (35 points), Vikings (41) and Patriots (38 points).
In 08, when they were really good, They gave up 35 points the Browns, 31 to the Eagles, 29 to the Cards.
He had bad games just like anyone.
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and at the end of the day in 07 the giants were sb champs bc of their d
and at h end of the day in 08 the giants were a #1 or #2 seed because of their stellar defense…. JJ and Lebeau have been lit up before too. Spags defenses were consistently good.
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
“Spags defenses were consistently good.”
No they weren’t.
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I would disagree there
The first 2 weeks Spags had were rough as a DC, but you have to admit the strong point of the Giants , was their defense when he was there
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
I do admit that. He obviously did a good job with the Giants. It was only for two years and he hasn’t done anything good since… but yeah, he did a hell of a job.
That’s my whole point JoeD. This isn’t a guy with a long track record of success. That’s all I’m saying. He’s not the sure thing people make him out to be.
But as I’ve said, I like him. I’d bring him in… I’m just preaching caution here.
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Yeh but I mean….
One year we go with a guy with ZERO experience,……..and now we want a guy whos the God of all DCs (still unamed and unfound)?? I don’t get this fanbase sometimes…..
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by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 12:12 PM EST up reply actions
when did this streak start? the end of one season + the next season.
and we’re all here saying that Juan’s season ending streak of great D is basically worthless………
by RogerPodacter on Jan 3, 2012 12:57 PM EST up reply actions
Spags had no talent
I don’t know how much he to do with the GM decisions but his top WR was DANNY AMMENDOLA! A guy who wouldnt even make the ps on our team. I couldnt name a signle o-lineman.. Their D had very little talent as well…but as Tram stated, it wouldnt even matter bc their offense was just so bad
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
What is?
Whether Spags is as good as advertised?
Yeah, that’s a debate.
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Well, he’s advertized as being a good coordinator and a bad HC. Why is there a debtae?
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by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 12:20 PM EST up reply actions
Because they aren’t totally separate. He ran the defense in STL and they weren’t good.
All I’m saying is that this can’t be ignored when you’re talking about him.
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If Spags ran the D and did not just over see the D what did DLine LBs DBs and DCords do on the Rams ESP DCord the play caller ?
From what I know only HC who actually calls plays is DAL Jason Garrett and if u notice they don’t have a OC
HC is diff job then DC just because he’s the HC doesn’t mean he ran the D
by SKerwood on Jan 3, 2012 12:30 PM EST via iPhone app up reply actions
Here's the deal on Juan
He’s still a question mark. We’re not convinced by shutting down mark sanchez, stephen mcgee, matt moore and rex grossman that he can come in and be able to slow down top offenses (something he didn’t do all year).
Meaning, if we keep Juan, the Eagles ability to play good defense would still be a question mark…
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
Castillo is a great coach, but probably not a great defensive mind
Theoretical scenario:
- Castillo is a promising defensive assistant somewhere, ah-la Spags was to JJ.
- The Eagles pick him up to replace McDermott, the same manner in which Spags was picked up by NJG.
- The season plays out exactly (I know, how can we know it would go exactly the same) as it has done this year. Spags’ first year as a DC was not great. His defense was just below mid-grade in the league.
Would Castillo get a bye on the difficulties the Eagles D faced with the truncated off-season, installing a brand new scheme and incorporating all these new players? Would we all be calling for his head and pointing out the idiocy of hiring an O-lin coach as a DC? McDermott got two years, right? Juan presents a really soft target, and rightfully so.
tl;dr – If Castillo had come from the defensive side of the ball, would we be a bit kinder in our evaluation, or would we still be ready for him to move on.
The views expressed by this comment belong to they who wrote them, heretofore referred to as "comment maker."
The views do not reflect the official views of the comment makers employer.
The views do not reflect the official views of the organization through which the Internet was accessed by the comment maker.
“If Castillo had come from the defensive side of the ball, would we be a bit kinder in our evaluation, or would we still be ready for him to move on.”
Almost certainly.
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Defensive players drafted since 2005, I’ll leave out this past year.
2005
Mike Patterson(1)
Matt McCoy(2)
Sean Considine(4)
Trent Cole(5)
Keyonta Marshall(7)
David Bergeron(7)
2006
Brodrick Bunkley(1)
Chris Gocong(3)
Omar Gaither(5)
LaJuan Ramsey(6)
2007
Victor Abiamiri(2)
Stewart Bradley(3)
C.J. Gaddis(5)
Rashad Barksdale(6)
2008
Trevor Laws(2)
Bryan Smith(3)
Quintin Demps(4)
Jack Ikegwuonu(4)
Joe Mays(6)
Andy Studebaker(6)
2009
Macho Harris(5)
Moise Fokou(7)
2010
Brandon Graham(1)
Nate Allen(2)
Daniel Te’o-Nesheim(3)
Trevard Lindley(4)
Keenan Clayton(4)
Ricky Sapp(5)
Jamar Chaney(7)
Jeff Owens(7)
Kurt Coleman(7)
Is Spags going to fix this? Can he mask it? Unless the answer is yes to either then does it really matter whether Juan or Spags is here if we cannot draft better defensively?
Go Eagles!
I think the writing is on the wall though for a well-regarded LB this year though. Now, how they pan out is a different story.
It's not like the Giants had a bunch of defensive all stars when he was there
They had some very good defensive ends who could consistently get pressure. He also had a great cover corner in Corey Webster.
Other than that, he didn’t have top flight LBers, great safeties or even a stable of good orners. he made his living off of attacking other offenses protection schemes
JoeD AKA The Voice Of Reason
He had one hell of a defensive line
I’m with Jason here in that I am not against hiring Spags. Like Jason said bring him in, I am for it.
My fear is that people are thinking that Castillo was the main reason that our defense wasn’t good this year, and I am not sold on that fact. We put a 4th round rookie in as starting MLB and thought that was good enough for crissakes. Spags could have hid that?
My main point is that Spags is not the magic wand, and if anyone here thinks that bringing him in and doing nothing else to upgrade our D will fix the problems they are sadly mistaken.
Go Eagles!
There is no magic wand dude…. we all know that….we havent won a SB…EVER….we are still using the same coach after 12 years and expect him to bring this team to the “next level” ….he hasnt…. we dont want a magic wand, we just want to in a SB….
When you keep doing the same shit over and over again and you get the same results, some things needs to change! You need to switch it up….otherwise, youll keep getting the same results year after year….
If your a chick that keeps getting beaten up by your deadbeat boyfriend and you stay with him because you “love him” ..or “because there is no one better”…or whatever…. then youll keep getting your face smashed on pay day….each and every week, until you do something to change it….
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by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 12:54 PM EST up reply actions
To be fair, bringing in Spags would be more like “doing the same shit over and over again” than anything else. It would be basically the closest thing to bringing back JJ and doing what we did for a decade.
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Thats is true. And this argument is based on the fact that the FO wants to keep running the same style of JJs Defense going forward. Ive said that up top. If they want to run a different style of Defense then go out and do it. My main argument for Spags is that he would be a good fit under Andy Reid and the JJ type Defensive scheme they are “trying” or want to run.
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by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 1:00 PM EST up reply actions
It all goes out the window if Andy is gone.
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FLY #7 FLY !
by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 1:02 PM EST up reply actions
Yeah, he would be the best guy to run the JJ system if that is indeed what they want to do…
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Giants caught lightning in a bottle.
It would have been just as likely that they never got the chance to beat NE in the SB. So then, if they didn’t, would the masses of fans be debating how much having Spags as DC would help our team?
If David Tyree hadn’t caught that pass with his helmut (sic), would Steve Spagnuolo be considered the NFL equivalent of Wagu Beef?
His Defense still got there and still dominated. Anybody wathing those games could see the JJ effect on that Defense dude, dont be ignorant.
Formerly BWestFactor
FLY #7 FLY !
by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 1:14 PM EST up reply actions
The Defense dominated in the SB.
However,
I was pointing out the up and down performance of his defense from game 1 in the reg season leading up to that excellent performance in the SB, but you were too stupid to catch that. I’ll dumb it down for you next time, shadymicvicfactor ( haha).
BTW we all wathed those games
Hahaha …you’re such a bad person…. Like at your core….you spew of ignorance…or stupidity…. its one or the other…
Formerly BWestFactor
FLY #7 FLY !
by ShadyMcVickFactor on Jan 3, 2012 1:27 PM EST up reply actions
I have a feeling Andy Reid is stepping down as opposed to getting fired. Just a gut feeling.
Ed Snider is a crotchety old fuck.
That is all.
I seriously hope that doesn’t happen.
Nobody in football should be called a genius. A genius is a guy like Norman Einstein.
- Joe Theismann
by FloridaEagle on Jan 3, 2012 12:28 PM EST up reply actions
FWIW I’ve wanted Andy gone for a long time. But at this point I would be perfectly fine giving him one more year, IF, and only IF this organization truly feels it is on the cusp. Which based on everything they said going into this year, that was their feelings.
If this season has made them realize that they aren’t as close as they thought they were then bring in someone else, might as well start that process now rather than later.
Ed Snider is a crotchety old fuck.
That is all.
He has 2 years left on his contract
No way he steps down before the end of 2013.
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Wow
I never really considered it that way Jason. I guess I was just blinded by his success with the Giants that one year but never really considered the terrible job he has done in St. louis. Granted HC and DC are VERY different when it comes to responsibilties. There have been some great coordinators that stink as HC but for three years be the bottom of the league is not a good sign. Maybe had his defense been even somewhat decent but they stunk every year. You know he helped to make some of those personel moves and apparently wasn’t very good at that. As a DC you have influence on personel decisions. Not sure if that’s a good thing. Also considering that Juans first year was better than Spags’, I’d say that says something. Seeing how Juan improved so dramatically toward the en of the year can’t be ignore. Yes they weren’t great offenses but they were on hot streaks when we dominated them. Just think what Juan could do with a full offseason to work with. I seriously have no idea what I want to happen at this point. I’d be happy to have either guy but I believe consistency is key. Look at the teams who have constant turnover at the coaching positions. Not very good
Born in North Carolina; raised a Philly fan
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by CarolinaGreen on Jan 3, 2012 12:32 PM EST via mobile reply actions
#HireSpags
I’ve been wondering how much of an impact he could have on our future success myself, nice job to raise this question.
I’m unsure if firing Juan/hiring Spags is the saving grace for this team on defense. I think the Eagles should make Spags DC and Juan as an assistant, or some kind of configuration similar to that.
I’m just not ready to give Castillo another shot at DC by himself. If we have another whole wasted season because this guy is in over his head, that would suck.
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#HireSpags
by PhiladelphiaEagles on Jan 3, 2012 12:32 PM EST via mobile reply actions
To those saying that Castillo's D beat up on patsies late in the year.
That’s true, but early in the year we were the ones that were beaten up by the patsies (Smith, Jackson, Skelton). So there was improvement. I’m not saying that is enough to keep Juan, just acknowledging it.
Go Eagles!
Improvement
I acknowledge the improvement. But Eagles improved from total confusion. They were like a high school team out there. Guys were lost, and even admitted it. I have never seen that before.
In the end, we have no say in whom the Eagles hire. So I will just be pissed about the sorry events of this year, and hope they can sort it out.
I loved John Spagnola as a kid, and readily admit that’s one of the reasons I prefer Steve Spagnoula (no relation). Stupid, sure.
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 12:48 PM EST up reply actions
That is just silly
That you like spagnoula because he shares a similar name with spagnola. At least you admit it’s stupid
Born in North Carolina; raised a Philly fan
The blood in my veins is red but when you cut me it turns GREEN!!
Xbox Gamertag is Bleed Greenery for anyone interested in some Madden or Call of Duty
by CarolinaGreen on Jan 3, 2012 12:54 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Well,
What I admitted is that my preference is irrelevant, since the Eagles don’t give a crap what any of us think. So I don’t bother pretending that I am an NFL GM and need to figure out whether Juan is better than Spags or vice versa.
by Desert_Eagle on Jan 3, 2012 12:56 PM EST up reply actions
True
We can say and bitch all we want and pretend like we know what’s best for this team but in the end we are slaves to the decisions the FO will ultimately make and we’ll just have to take it.
Born in North Carolina; raised a Philly fan
The blood in my veins is red but when you cut me it turns GREEN!!
Xbox Gamertag is Bleed Greenery for anyone interested in some Madden or Call of Duty
by CarolinaGreen on Jan 3, 2012 1:01 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Acknowledged
Well played sir
Born in North Carolina; raised a Philly fan
The blood in my veins is red but when you cut me it turns GREEN!!
Xbox Gamertag is Bleed Greenery for anyone interested in some Madden or Call of Duty
by CarolinaGreen on Jan 3, 2012 1:03 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
compared to the Eagles
As I commented on another blog, it seemed to me that Spags had roughly the same talent level as McDermott and Castillo had at his disposal.
He had, arguably, comparable defensive line talent, better linebacking talent, worse corner play, but also comparable safety play.
So why was he so much worse than the two Eagle d-coordinators? Is it the offense’s problems? Did he not have enough of “his” guys?
Granted
Castillo was terrible in the first half of the season but you can’t blame the offenses ineptitude on him during that same span. Without the league lead in turnovers we are a double digit win team and NFC East champs for sure.
Born in North Carolina; raised a Philly fan
The blood in my veins is red but when you cut me it turns GREEN!!
Xbox Gamertag is Bleed Greenery for anyone interested in some Madden or Call of Duty
by CarolinaGreen on Jan 3, 2012 12:57 PM EST via mobile reply actions
And
If that were the case we would not be calling for castillos head like many are
Born in North Carolina; raised a Philly fan
The blood in my veins is red but when you cut me it turns GREEN!!
Xbox Gamertag is Bleed Greenery for anyone interested in some Madden or Call of Duty
by CarolinaGreen on Jan 3, 2012 12:58 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
If we were say, 17th, in TOs this is a 11-5 team with a top 10 O and D… We might be saying " Holy Shit, Andy was right about Juan." The TOs skew our perspective alot in regards to sweeping judgements on the season
Shady is the man.
Point is
Juan clearly could have been saved from alot of the venom if we hadn’t set a Reid Era record for TOs.
Shady is the man.
EXACTLY
In that case we aren’t even having this conversation. TO’s kill teams! (Terrell Owens and turnovers)
Born in North Carolina; raised a Philly fan
The blood in my veins is red but when you cut me it turns GREEN!!
Xbox Gamertag is Bleed Greenery for anyone interested in some Madden or Call of Duty
by CarolinaGreen on Jan 3, 2012 1:05 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Castillo would also be getting credit
For doing it with a dearth of LB talent and inconsistent Safety play.
Shady is the man.
True
I know that the front office will consider every angle and make the best decision. It’s in their hands and it always has been. No matter what we think or say the ultimate decision is up to them. If you don’t like it then you have a place to bitch about it i.e. BGN. We as fans cannot control what happens to us but we can control our attitude towards it. Accept what you cannot control and move on.
Born in North Carolina; raised a Philly fan
The blood in my veins is red but when you cut me it turns GREEN!!
Xbox Gamertag is Bleed Greenery for anyone interested in some Madden or Call of Duty
by CarolinaGreen on Jan 3, 2012 1:29 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Forget Del Rio
Word down here in FL was Del Rio got his big contract and quit working. First to leave the office. I think the jags still owe him for two more years. He won’t be coming to Phlly with that work ethic.
Juan just wasn’t ready for the job as Defense Cood. the fact are the defense was average and at time the defense would be put in bad situation by bad plays of the offense causing Juan to look worse than what he really was.
The truth is that the Eagles defense was totally base on Indy style of defense that the offense score a lot while the defense pursed the QB.
Another point is that the Eagles were horrible no abominable in Tackling that wasn’t Juan fault Juan Job was to put the player in a situation to make a play but they for the beginning and parts of the middle of the season didn’t
besides who to say that the defense wont do the same if Spagnuolo was there
I think we all understand that AR wanted the Wide-Nine defense because of it’s merit to creator, Jim Washburn. Threw Juan into the DC job from his coaching as OC. Although Juan had prior experience as a defense coach, years forgotten, he couldn’t understand the Wide-Nine scheme. Why didn’t Washburn and Juan fill in the positions early in the season? Players themselves were at lost as to who’s who to make the cover. Took more than half the season for Juan to clam in the scheme, when it took Washburn a couple of games in Tennessee, as DC, presto! Albeit, it’s Juan’s 1st year as DC, not his fault it took that long, what was Washburn doing, it’s his creation? That said, will AR take in Spags and change the whole defensive scheme and run the players as per their positions? Or continue on with the scheme implementation with, of course, Juan? I personally don’t mind which way it leads, but why start something and not finish it, so to say.
by EaglesHeat on Jan 3, 2012 1:47 PM EST via Android app reply actions
but
Castillo kept running these zone schemes behind the wide-9, which made it extra hard on the LBs, which were an obvious weakpoint. He started Casey Matthews as the MIKE without any competition, and stuck with him for far too long. He atrociously misused Nnamdi Asomugha.
So, even if the D started to get it together toward the end of the season, Castillo still made so many bone-headed decisions that he just doesn’t look ready to be a full on DC. If we can bring in someone who’s better suited for the job (ie, someone who’s had success as a DC, if even only a modicum) then we have to go ahead and pull that trigger. The chances of them being better next year than Castillo may be are just far too high.
Isn’t Belichek regarded as a defensive mastermind, yet his defences have been atrocious the last few years. Talent, and a good offence can go a long way to helping a defence.
Yrs, but he’s got years and years of track record to rely on.
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Look, if you asked me today if I could hire Spags or Juan as my DC right now. I’d says Spags before you even finished the question.
Having said that, I still don’t see him as a sure thing.
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