Detroit Lions Keeping Jim Caldwell Has Its Benefits

The Detroit Lions‘ new general manager, Bob Quinn has made his first big decision of many. He’s keeping Jim Caldwell.

And while that may infuriate many people, it has its benefits. The coaching pool isn’t exactly ripe with candidates. Many speculated Quinn would target New England Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. But McDaniels wouldn’t be a solid candidate. He can’t seem to succeed whenever he leaves the Patriots, and his 11-17 record with Denver Broncos speaks to that. Outside of Tom Coughlin — whose age probably intimidates people — who else was left? There’s the problem.

Now, onto what good keeping the beleaguered Caldwell does. While Caldwell has abominable with his decision-making, the players love and rally for him. The 6-2 finish isn’t impressive when considering the Lions’ competition, but it speaks volumes for the respect Caldwell garners from his players. If players don’t respect a coach, it doesn’t matter how profound his philosophy is.

The most important aspect is the decoding of Matthew Stafford. While he started the season terribly, Stafford ended the second half with brilliance. Once Jim Bob Cooter handled the offensive duties, Stafford threw 20 touchdowns to 4 interceptions — much better than his 12 touchdowns to 9 interceptions while Joe Lombardi was at the helm.

Even if Cooter’s play-calling abilities haven’t been fully proven yet, Stafford’s comfort has. He and Cooter seem to share offensive philosophies, and that’s vital to this team’s success. Detroit’s inability to get a coach that can groom Stafford has been a major impediment. Another year under Cooter’s system may prove that he’s the guy to take Stafford to the next level.

While Detroit’s defense struggled, they finished the second half surrendering just under 20 points per game, compared to their 30-point average throughout the first half of the season. Teryl Austin is extremely creative and is someone who — provided he sticks around — can improve this defense every season.

It’s better for Quinn to give Caldwell a year rather than dismissing him and bringing in an inexperienced coach while having to assemble a scouting department.

Caldwell may not be the answer, but for now, he works.