Getting defensive with the next coach
Mike Chappell points out that 2 of the 3 known candidates are defensive coordinators while offensive coordinator Clyde Christiansen may have survived yesterday's round of dismissals:
The list of candidates to replace Jim Caldwell, who was fired Tuesday, includes Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer, New Orleans Saints offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael Jr. and Tennessee Titans defensive coordinator Jerry Gray.
A source with direct knowledge of the situation confirmed plans were being made for Carmichael to meet with the Colts on Thursday evening or today, while a different source confirmed the team will interview Gray. ESPN reported the team also plans to discuss its vacancy with Zimmer.
The Colts declined comment Thursday on the search for Caldwell's replacement.
Grigson emphasized Tuesday that leadership will be a required trait for whomever is chosen to direct the team during its rebuilding process.
At the same time, interviewing Carmichael tends to throw a wrench in that "we want a defensive coach" idea, not only because he´s an OC, but also one of the most aggressive and innovative in the league. So yeah, I agree we can´t say there´s a defensive pattern there, just a "good assistants" one.
I wouldn't read into Christiansen still being around. It seems like Grigson has been able to meet or talk with (and fire) a couple guys each day, so maybe he has just had a harder time connecting with Clyde. If they go a day or two without firing any staff and he's still around, then I would start reading between the lines.
So far I like the list of candidates, seem like good options. And I imagine Carmichael might be a little more aggressive with punts and playcalls than the average coach.
