Should The Detroit Lions “Tank” The Rest Of Their Season?

Nov 1, 2015; London, United Kingdom; Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter reacts in the fourth quarter against the Kansas City Chiefs during game 14 of the NFL International Series at Wembley Stadium. The Chiefs defeated the Lions 45-10. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Evaluate Coaching

In the same way that you always want your players to play, you want your coaches to coach. Any undermining of the coaches and players does not allow you to properly evaluate those respective jobs.

On the heels of an 11-5 season, the team started 1-7. Offensive Coordinator Joe Lombardi was fired. In his place, the relatively unknown Jim Bob Cooter assumed the role as O.C. Through Cooter’s first four games the Lions are 3-1, with three impressive wins in a row. The adjustments made to the offensive line have made that unit look much more proficient. The past three games, the offensive line has given Matthew Stafford better protection. As a result, the turnovers have went down, while the offense looks like a cohesive unit.

The rest of the season will determine who keeps their job, and who gets walking papers. Maybe the Lions move on from Caldwell? Maybe Caldwell keeps his job? Maybe both Caldwell and Cooter keep their jobs? Who knows, but at least they will be given all of the opportunity to keep the ship afloat.

In a bad season, you want a fair chance to evaluate EVERYONE. From the position coaches all the way to the head coach.

Next: Playoffs?