It’s human nature, when you start a new job you want to make a good first impression. NFL coaches are no different but unlike a normal job they won’t get fired for screwing up in the first four weeks. Because of this each new coach is in a unique situation. We will take a look at the coaches heading up a new team and how that may translate to pointspread winners in the preseason.
Eric Mangini (Browns) – Mangini takes over a team that was 4-12 last season and he will bring more emotion than the human statue that is Romeo Crennel. Mangini was 8-4 in the preseason as head coach of the Jets during his tenure. A change in attitude was needed in Cleveland and the new head coach will bring that change. Look for a successful run in the preseason this year.
Josh McDaniels (Broncos) – It would be difficult to imagine a new head coach having a tougher summer leading up to his first season. McDaniels alienated his Pro Bowl quarterback who then forced a trade and his best wide receiver showed up to camp only to avoid being fined. Combine that with taking over for Mike Shanahan who was and is loved in Denver and the situation keeps getting more brutal. McDaniels needs to win and win early to build confidence from his team and fans. Denver should be a force this preseason.
Jim Schwartz (Lions) – Talk about an organization that needs a culture change. The Lions need wins this preseason and they need them bad. Schwartz comes from Tennessee where the Titans have a history of being very good in the preseason under Jeff Fisher. Schwartz also brings a no-nonsense style and the Lions will realize early in camp that times have changed. Detroit will have success in the preseason because Schwartz will stress the importance of wins.
Jim Caldwell (Colts) – Caldwell has been the coach in waiting for a while in Indianapolis. The transition from Tony Dungy will be fairly seamless. Because of that expect another poor showing in the preseason from the Colts. Dungy could care less about the games that don’t count and Caldwell will continue that system.
Todd Haley (Chiefs) – Haley takes over a team that was 2-14 last season but played several close games. His GM went out and got him a Pro Bowl quarterback in Matt Cassel. Haley is an offensive coach and with a new QB leading the youngest offense in the league the starters will play more than usual in the preseason. Because of this the Chiefs are a “play on” team in the preseason.
Rex Ryan (Jets) – Ryan was the architect of the successful Ravens defense and now takes over the entire Jets team. He may have to show his defensive genius with all the young quarterbacks on the roster. First pick Matt Sanchez and Kellen Clemens are expected to compete for the starting job. With little experience behind center the Jets should struggle in the preseason.
Tom Cable (Raiders) – I realize Cable coached 12 games last season but this will be his first camp as the head coach. Why anyone would want the job is beyond me. This team needs to change it’s motto to, “Just try not to lose bad, baby.” Another long season is getting ready to start in Oakland and the preseason will not be pretty either.
Steve Spagnuolo (Rams) – Talk about a franchise that needed a change. The Rams were 5-27 the last two years and hiring a defensive coordinator was a good move since St. Louis gave up almost 5 yards per rushing attempt last season. Spagnuolo worked under Tom Coughlin and has learned how to coach and be successful. Wins in the preseason could go a long way toward an improved season. The Rams should be profitable during this year’s preseason.
Mike Singletary (49ers) – Like Tom Cable, Singletary coached 9 games for San Francisco last season but leads his team to training camp for the first time. If you have any doubts about Singletary’s commitment to winning and doing things the right way, ask Vernon Davis how he liked being sent to the lockerroom in the middle of a game when the coach didn’t like his effort. Singletary defines intensity and wants to win each and every time there is a game on the schedule. The 49ers are another “play on” team this preseason.
Jim Mora, Jr (Seahawks) – Injuries hit the Seahawks hard last season and because of that Mora takes over a 4-12 team. The key to this preseason for Seattle will be to get to the regular season with his starters healthy. Mora had a so-so 8-5 record in the preseason in his previous stint as a head coach and under Mike Holmgren was barely over .500 during his tenure. That win some, lose some attitude will more than likely continue this year.
Raheem Morris (Buccaneers) – After Jon Gruden was suddenly fired after last season, the Buccaneers turned to Morris to lead them through what will be a rebuilding process. Young and hungry coaches tend to do well in the preseason though because to them a win is a win. Tampa Bay was a preseason monster under Gruden going 30-16. Morris should continue that preseason trend and I’m playing on them.
There you have it, lots of new coaches and several different circumstances. Remember that the preseason is very fluid and things change from week to week. Do your homework before wagering on any game and if you need more help join the CBWins team and you will build that bankroll for the regular season.
