Detroit Lions: What to know about every head coach candidate interviewed

Darrell Bevell

Position: Lions offensive coordinator, interim head coach
Scheme: Vertical Passing, Power Running

What to Like

As long as Matthew Stafford stays healthy, we know that he will have a great season next year if Bevell is calling plays. Under Bevell, Stafford posted 1208 yards, 8 Touchdowns, and only two interceptions on a completion rating of 67%.

The team also loves him and never gives up. Bevell also has years of experience and if he’s allowed to build his own staff, I’m sure he’ll bring in some notable names. Helping both the defense and the running game.

Yes, Bevell was only able to win one game in Detroit as the interim. Nevertheless, the offense was much better. To support that, the Lions on the other side of the ball was at a historic low point because of Matt Patricia.

Perhaps with his staff, he could sneak the Lions into the playoffs next season. Then continue to build on that to make a consistent winner.

What not to Like

It appears that Bevell prefers a power heavy run scheme. I don’t believe that would be the best thing for D’Andre Swift. Swift himself said he likes to play in space, and Bevell’s scheme contradicts that.

The running game was also very inconsistent in those four games with Bevell. Although he does have a good track record in the past with balancing out his offense, it’s something to pay attention to.

Lastly, there is not much to evaluate him on. Under Matt Patricia, he was a very inconsistent play-caller. That improved a ton when he had his chance to be the interim coach. His time in Seattle came to an abrupt end, but it seemed he learned a lot from that experience.

Is Bevell ready to be a head coach? Yes, he’s shown that he schemes around his quarterback and finds the best system for him. He did it with quarterbacks Brett Favre, Russell Wilson, and Stafford. Which is the most critical trait an offensive-minded coach could have.