Coaching is the Key to Success in 2013

[MHS831]

I sent Jonathan Jones of the Observer an Email asking about Kugbila's injury and the significance of the verbage issue.  I asked if the staff feels that the verbage (confusion for new players/rookies, less time for Cam to get through pre-snap reads due to long huddles) has been blamed for the team's slow starts.  I never questioned game management (directly).  He responded immediately, and he said this:

 

"I'm sure the (un?)simplified verbiage has something to do with slow starts, but if they want to remedy that, they have to fix coaching. It was (not?) the  verbiage that lost them the Atlanta game, or the Chicago game, or Dallas or Seattle. All four of those games were very win-able. While I agree the offense sputtered, I think that's more a sign of coaching than words in the huddle."

I personally think he could have mentioned the Tampa Bay games here too.

 

About Kugbila, he said that they know very little about the leg injury.  He added that it is unlikely that Kugbila will see the field much in 2013 anyway, but he needs the reps at the OTAs.

 

Just something in the off season that I thought you all might find interesting.  Not that it is news, but that it was openly stated by an Observer reporter.

 

 

 

 

[FootballMaestro]

I agree whole Whole heartedly. 

 

This is not discussed nearly enough, especially in the media. 

 

If the Panthers had even "competent' coaching the past two years, they would have amassed anywhere's from 2-4, maybe even 5 more wins in a given year. 

 

I find it ironic, how everyone like's to psycho analyze and scrutinize Cam, Chud (not that he didn't deserve it), and now Shula. But truth be told, Rivera is the biggest weakness on this team so far/the past two years. And HE, more than anyone, needs to improve greatly, in order for this team to have success in 2013. 

 

PS: Not sure if JJ appreciated you publicizing this e-mail, or the extent of you're relationship with him? However, you may want to re-consider things like this in the future, unless he or you really don't care, about any potential fall out. 

[philp]

I had no idea he was injured. Feels like a hurney pick all over again.

[iamhubby1]

This is another one of those areas where perception means a lot.

If you are in the camp that believes Rivera will never get it. Then no one, or nothing said, will change that opinion.

If you feel coaches, like players, can grow. Then you are probably hopeful that improvement is going to continue.

I am of the mind that Rivera has improved each year. He doesn't make the same mistake twice. Third years the charm. The players love him, and we looked like a pretty good team down the stretch. I am all in on Rivera.

This is the best Panther team we have had in quite a while. If Rivera can stay out of his own way. We should have a really good year.

[TheRed]

I cannot disagree with this at all. I've been saying it the last two seasons.

Rivera is our make or break factor for this team in 2013. No more pansy ass football!!!!

I had no idea he was injured. Feels like a hurney pick all over again.

Jumping to premature conclusions already are we?

[Cary Kollins]

I agree as well. I was on the "fire Rivera" bandwagon. I personally wanted him gone with Hurney due to his in-game incompetence.

But he's our guy, at least for now. And the team didnt quit on him, so there's that.

I only hope he has learned from his past failures.

[firstdayfan]

A lot of people talk about Cam and the disrespect he gets and how everyone holds Luck, RGIII, Wilson, and Kaepernick to a higher standard...well we all know Cam is as talented if not more talented than all those guys.  But there's one big factor that Cam has no control over and that is coaching.  All those guys either have established coaches or up and coming coaches who seem to have "it".  Cam doesn't and I truly believe if Cam had won 10 games the last two years and made the playoffs he would be at the top of all the young QB's list.

 

Very similar situation is Matt Stafford.  The guy has thrown for so much yardage the last two years, right up there with Brees and Brady yet no one talks about it.  He's a nobody.  Most normal fans wouldn't even know who he is.  But he is a hella talented QB but doesn't have the wins/coaching that these other guys do.  He's a year older than Cam but I feel like their careers are headed in the same direction.  Very talented with poor coaching staffs.

[Ace_Aladdin]

simple  = faster

[FootballMaestro]

This is another one of those areas where perception means a lot.

If you are in the camp that believes Rivera will never get it. Then no one, or nothing said, will change that opinion.

If you feel coaches, like players, can grow. Then you are probably hopeful that improvement is going to continue.

I am of the mind that Rivera has improved each year. He doesn't make the same mistake twice. Third years the charm. The players love him, and we looked like a pretty good team down the stretch. I am all in on Rivera.

This is the best Panther team we have had in quite a while. If Rivera can stay out of his own way. We should have a really good year.

 

Nice post. But since when (on the bolded part)?

 

With all due respect; Where you been the past two seasons (clock management, poor use of time outs, end of half coaching; passive when Panthers have a 14+ or more point lead--even during the second Qtr; late game defensive blunders--even with leads, handling Chud/taking charge, etc.)???

 

We all wish to see Rivera improve in 2013. And anyone that doesn't see the need for this (not saying you per se), just doesn't get it. 

[iamhubby1]

Since when?

 

With all due respect; Where you been the past two seasons (clock management, poor use of time outs, end of half coaching; passive when Panthers have a 14+ or more point lead--even during the second Qtr; late game defensive blunders--even with leads, handling Chud, etc.)???

Truly sorry you haven't seen the growth I have. IMO, the light went on for Rivera when Keek moved to MLB. He seemed to have become more decisive and aggressive. He even commented that he felt more confident to be more aggressive. Something to the effect of, keep your foot on the gas longer.

First time coaches make mistakes. Hellz, every coach makes mistakes. And I feel he is making less mistakes as he has grown into the position. You have to go through the situation to learn from it. And in my mind. Rivera is a quick study. He gets it.

That time out against the taints was unfortunate. Someone was yelling 12 men, so Rivera took a time out instead of giving up 5 yards. We have all seen the pic of Rivera chewing out the messenger. But I am not blind to his track record, but I am not as afraid of history as some others round here.

I can feel how folks can be apprehensive, I really can. The Rivera era started off a tad bumpy. I, and a few others, just happen to feel he is growing into his job nicely.

tl/dr version. Rivera is learning to trust himself. He knows football. He is open to change. He listens. His players play hard. Best of all, he gots this.

[Jackofalltrades]

Gee, same thing I've been saying for a looooong time now.

[FootballMaestro]

Truly sorry you haven't seen the growth I have. IMO, the light went on for Rivera when Keek moved to MLB. He seemed to have become more decisive and aggressive. He even commented that he felt more confident to be more aggressive. Something to the effect of, keep your foot on the gas longer.

First time coaches make mistakes. Hellz, every coach makes mistakes. And I feel he is making less mistakes as he has grown into the position. You have to go through the situation to learn from it. And in my mind. Rivera is a quick study. He gets it.

That time out against the taints was unfortunate. Someone was yelling 12 men, so Rivera took a time out instead of giving up 5 yards. We have all seen the pic of Rivera chewing out the messenger. But I am not blind to his track record, but I am not as afraid of history as some others round here.

I can feel how folks can be apprehensive, I really can. The Rivera era started off a tad bumpy. I, and a few others, just happen to feel he is growing into his job nicely.

tl/dr version. Rivera is learning to trust himself. He knows football. He is open to change. He listens. His players play hard. Best of all, he gots this.

 

I respect what you're saying and all. But you really wanna stand by this?

 

The list is too endless (not that we all remember everything anyway) of Rivera mistakes continuing into 2012. 

 

Where do you want us to start?

 

1) Both Chud and Rivera, admitted that they cooked up more read option during the summer of 2012, before the season even started. And it took the threat of Rivera losing his job, before any changes were made? Why would any coach try to extend the read option, when/where Cam, and the rest of the team had so much success out of pro-sets?? Where was the adaptation and progress there? Remember, Rivera signed off on this. 

 

2) Where was Rivera's second half defensive adjustments in the Chicago, the first Atlanta, Dallas, 2nd Tampa Bay game, etc..? This was all during his second season, and we're not even warmed up yet?

 

3) What about Rivera's half time blunders against Chicago, and some other games, regarding the clock, timeouts or his FG/1 minute drive decisions (or lack of them)? When did he learn from this? I'm sure others here can elaborate more, if they wanted. 

 

4) Even during the second half of the season, when the Panthers were supposed to be 'playing well', Rivera still showed passiveness, by always slowing down the offense anytime the Panthers had a 14 pt lead, even during the 2nd Qtr's of games. This is one of the reasons, why the Panthers were always in close games they didn't have to be (combined with the fact the defense couldn't hold any leads).  Remember, the 'Prevent', 'Bend but Always Broken' Defense'? SMH

 

5) Where were the Panthers half time adjustments and aggression, on both offense and defense, when both units seemingly were stifled for large swathes of ineptitude, and couldn't stop the other team? The list is truly endless. And I think most honest, close Panther observers noticed these things as well.

 

6) Special teams continued to be atrocious 2 years running. Where was the improvement? Unless you have proven Special Teams Coaches--like Chicago and the Jets had Historically, I find Special Teams is usually a reflection of the Head Coach, and/or his managerial skills. 

 

I think the jury is still out on Rivera. And at best, maybe he's learned a little?? We hope so. 

 

Beating scrubs at the end of last season, when the season was already decided is not a proper barometer.The real question will be: What decisions will Rivera make when there's pressure and expectations during the portion of the season that counts??

 

Ask yourself this question. Do you honestly believe, the Panthers would have the horrendous record they do in close games--the past two years with a legitimate (I'm not even saying good or great, just competent) head coach???????.....I don't think so. And this is with the Panther players (as you pointed out), 'Playing Hard For Him'. Can you imagine how bad the overall Panther and close game record would be if they didn't??? Of course, the flip side  of the argument is: "How much better their record would be, if Rivera actually knew what he was doing". Lol

 

My hope, is that the presence of Gettleman (pointing these things out), and a constantly aggressive offense, will solve that question and dilemma. 

 

We'll see?

[iamhubby1]

I respect what you're saying and all. But you really wanna stand by what you're saying. The list is too endless (not that we all remember everything anyway) of Rivera mistakes continuing into 2012. 

 

Where do you want us to start?

 

1) Both Chud and Rivera, admitted that they cooked up more read option during the summer of 2012, before the season even started. And it took the threat of Rivera losing his job, before any changes were made? Where was the adaptation and progress there?

 

2) Where was Rivera's second half adjustments in the Chicago, the first Atlanta, Dallas, 2nd Tampa Bay game, etc..? This was all during his second season, and we're not even warmed up yet?

 

3) What about Rivera's half time blunders against Chicago, and some other games, with the clock, timeouts or his FG decisions?

 

4) Even during the second half of the season, when the Panthers were 'playing well', Rivera still showed passiveness, by always slowing down the offense anytime the Panthers had a 14 pt lead, even during the second Qtr's of games. This is one of the reasons, why the Panthers were always in close games, combined with the fact the defense couldn't hold any leads. 

 

5) Where were the Panthers half time adjustments on both offense and defense, when both units seemingly were stifled for large swathes, and couldn't stop the other team. 

 

I think the jury is still out on Rivera. And at best, maybe he's learned a little??

 

Beating scrubs at the end of last season, when the season was already decided is not a proper barometer.  The real question will be: What decisions will Rivera make when they're pressure and expectations during the portion of the season that counts??

 

Ask yourself this question. Do you honestly believe, the Panthers would have the horrendous record they do in close games--the past two years with a legitimate (I'm not even saying good or great, just competent) head coach???????

 

My hope, is that the presence of Gettleman, and a non stop offense, will solve that question and dilemma. 

 

We'll see?

[CRA]

I respect what you're saying and all. But you really wanna stand by this?

The list is too endless (not that we all remember everything anyway) of Rivera mistakes continuing into 2012.

Where do you want us to start?

1) Both Chud and Rivera, admitted that they cooked up more read option during the summer of 2012, before the season even started. And it took the threat of Rivera losing his job, before any changes were made? Why would any coach try to extend the read option, when/where Cam, and the rest of the team had so much success out of pro-sets?? Where was the adaptation and progress there? Remember, Rivera signed off on this.

2) Where was Rivera's second half adjustments in the Chicago, the first Atlanta, Dallas, 2nd Tampa Bay game, etc..? This was all during his second season, and we're not even warmed up yet?

3) What about Rivera's half time blunders against Chicago, and some other games, regarding the clock, timeouts or his FG decisions? I'm sure others here can elaborate, if they wanted.

4) Even during the second half of the season, when the Panthers were 'playing well', Rivera still showed passiveness, by always slowing down the offense anytime the Panthers had a 14 pt lead, even during the second Qtr's of games. This is one of the reasons, why the Panthers were always in close games, combined with the fact the defense couldn't hold any leads (remember, the 'Prevent', 'Bend but Always Broken' Defense?

5) Where were the Panthers half time adjustments on both offense and defense, when both units seemingly were stifled for large swathes, and couldn't stop the other team. The list is truly endless. And I think most honest, close Panther observers noticed these things as well.

6) Special teams continued to be atrocious 2 years running. Where was the improvement? Unless you have proven Special Teams Coaches--like Chicago and the Jets had. Historically, I find Special Teams is usually a reflection of the Head Coach, and/or his managerial skills.

I think the jury is still out on Rivera. And at best, maybe he's learned a little?? We hope so.

Beating scrubs at the end of last season, when the season was already decided is not a proper barometer. The real question will be: What decisions will Rivera make when they're pressure and expectations during the portion of the season that counts??

Ask yourself this question. Do you honestly believe, the Panthers would have the horrendous record they do in close games--the past two years with a legitimate (I'm not even saying good or great, just competent) head coach???????.....I don't think so. And this is with the Panther players (as you pointed out), 'Playing Hard For Him'. Can you imagine how bad the overall Panther and close game record would be if they didn't??? Of course, the flip side is; you could always say, how much better their record would be, if Rivera actually knew what he was doing. Lol

My hope, is that the presence of Gettleman, and a constantly aggressive offense, will solve that question and dilemma.

We'll see?

1. The read option worked great in 2011. They amped it up bc they where trying to stay ahead of those studying it....and if we had decent G play I think it may have worked.

2. Players still have to make plays....Chicago and Atl. Rivera IMO had good enough calls on those last drives to close out a game....biggest issue was the talent could excute IMO. Nakamura and Norman shouldn't of been starters in the NFL last year.

I like Rivera....but he admits he is learning. Offense, clock management etc he has made his errors. Defensively? Rivera is awesome....our issue is our lack of talent has hurt us IMO. Talent has prevented him from having the ability to finish games the D should close. He deserves so criticism for out management of the O and clock....I think his D calls are on the spot