The bottom line for a head coach is the won-lost record. But if you show me two coaches with identical career records, I’ll muster an informed opinion as to who’s the better coach.
As far as potentate Butch Davis’ job goes, I’ve gone on record: Playoffs or Bust. No Excuses. This year. He didn’t earn that contract extension, and he didn’t need such utter control over football operations to do his job. But Randy Lerner gave him both, and so, as it is in the business world today, the short-term results ought to matter.
But let’s consider some deeper, less tangible ways to assess an NFL head coach. I’ll be keeping these things in mind as the rest of the season unfolds. Feel free to add your own considerations in the comments.
COACHING ABILITY:
Do the players consistently show sound fundamentals and professionalism on the field?
Does his team regularly surprise the opposition with effective game planning and play calling?
Does the team appear to be organized and disciplined on the field?
Is it clear that the team makes effective mid-game adjustments based on the circumstances?
Are the team’s strategy and use of personnel aligned with its best strengths, the opponent’s weaknesses, and the game conditions?
Does the team correct deficiencies over time, appear well-conditioned, and improve as the season goes on?
Are clock management, use of timeouts, and replay challenge decisions up to par?
PERSONNEL DECISIONS: (This category increases in importance to the extent he has power over player personnel.)
Have his top draft picks performed at a level worthy of their draft position?
Has the team gotten solid contributions from lower-round picks and undrafted free agents?
Has the team been successful in investing in veteran free agents?
Have the players whom the coach has cut proven not worthy of taking up a roster slot and salary cap space?
Has the team bettered itself through skillful trades?
Is each position group adequately stocked with the necessary talent and experience, or do some areas of the team seem consistently underdeveloped and outmatched?
Do his choices indicate that he values people of high character as well as raw athletic ability?
LEADERSHIP AND CHARACTER:
Do players perform with confidence about their roles, secure in the knowledge of their importance to the team?
Do people associated with the coach (players, former players, assistants, opponents, etc.) go out of their way to compliment or commend him?
Does the coach inspire loyalty in his followers, by treating them with honesty, fairness, and respect?
Does the coach inspire faith in his program by setting a clear vision, upholding high expectations, and making the best use of the assets at his command?
Is there a strong “team” orientation, as opposed to personality conflicts, whispering campaigns, and public dissent?
Has he learned from mistakes, taken responsibility for failure, led with a constructive tone, and grown in his skills?
Is he the type of person you would want to coach your own son, and also be proud to have represent your team to the public?
