Detroit Lions: Bob Quinn shows resolve, driven to win in playoffs

Implications

KCW did not write about everything that Bob Quinn said but we think we hit on the big topics. What is left to do is read between the lines of what Quinn said and ask what it means? We have watched Quinn draft three times, with mostly good results, but after a 6-win campaign, this offseason with his guy as head coach is by far his most important.

Quinn alluded to the team needing playmakers, which we mentioned earlier, but he also stated that he isn’t into splash signings, he prefers good football players. He spent a significant amount of energy trying to upgrade the tight end position this past offseason. Also, within his discussion of the offense moving forward, he spoke of flexibility, being able to take advantage of the weaknesses of an opponent on any given week, and that a potential coordinator needed to be able to adjust and change week-to-week to fit that vision.

What we like about Quinn’s approach is that it’s methodical and pragmatic. He doesn’t do crazy things. He hasn’t drafted a wide receiver when the line is horrible. Quinn plugs holes via the draft and free agency and doesn’t spend ungodly amounts of money where it doesn’t need to be spent.

So, by having an idea of his M.O. (modus operandi), the way he does things, we can make draw a few conclusions about what comes next.

Offensive coordinator

Freddie Kitchens keeps his Baker in Cleveland. The Jets have flown in Adam Gase. Vic Fangio has been roped into a job in Denver. Matt LaFleur has packed his things for Green Bay. Kliff Kingsbury takes his heat to Arizona, while Bruce Arians has pillaged Tampa Bay for some booty of his own as their new head coach.

These head coaching moves affect the Detroit Lions as they will now be looking to hire coordinators as well, taking from the same bucket that Patricia has to work with. Both Kitchens and Gase were on the radar in most fans’ minds prior to them both being hired as head coaches. Bob Quinn did not give a time table for the hire, nor did he give a list of his favorite candidates but current quarterbacks coach George Godsey will likely get a look.

Beyond that, it seems that the Detroit Lions want what everyone wants, a young, creative coordinator who knows how to take advantage of matchups and isn’t stuck running a system but can vary gameplans based off of the schedule. One name that has been on the rumor mill is Los Angeles Rams co-offensive leader, Shane Waldron but like coaches from all playoff teams, he cannot discuss a promotion until after his team has lost in the playoffs.