Panthers hire former Chargers DB Coach Steve Wilks
by BW Smith on Jan 16, 2012 1:33 PM EST
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PrintRon Rivera didn't waste any time finding a replacement for former DB Coach Ron Meeks. In fact, he already knew who he wanted all along: he wanted a guy he was very familiar with after working with him in San Diego and Chicago during his tenures as Defensive Coordinator. He wanted Steve Wilks.
Well, Rivera got his man, as the Panthers have agreed to bring in the former Chargers DB Coach to the same position on Rivera's staff. Wilks will be in charge of coaching one of the biggest weaknesses of the Panthers' defense: a secondary that sans Chris Gamble is filled with a group of JAGS who really didn't do much of anything last season other than miss crucial tackles or give up huge backbreaking plays that contributed to several Panthers losses.
Hopefully, Wilks is the man to change that.
It won't be anything new to Wilks, who inherited a unit in San Diego that ranked second to last in pass defense (31st). He helped the unit move up 20 spots to No. 11 against the pass in 2009 before ranking No. 1 overall in 2010. In that 2010 season, the Chargers allowed 18 touchdown passes, fifth-lowest in the league, and opposing passers had an average rating of 76.2, the fourth-lowest in the NFL. In 2011, the Chargers were 13th in pass defense, which is an improvement over the Panthers' 24th ranked pass defense from this season.
Wilks also seems to be a players' coach, as two former Bears players have weighed in on the hire.
Per Darin Gantt:
Chris is a fan of Panthers new DB coach hire. RT @ChrisHarrisNFL: Wilks is awesome
Another former Bears DB endorses Wilks. Contract's all that kept him from here last year. RT @TruMcBride: I agree. Wilks is an awesome coach
It's nice to know that the only reason he wasn't in Charlotte this year is because he was contractually obligated to stay in San Diego in 2011. (We would have had to promote him to take him, as he was the Assistant HC in San Diego -- the only promotion would have been Defensive Coordinator, and we had already hired Sean McDermott.) When Rivera brought in Sean McDermott to be the Defensive Coordinator, I found it strange that he decided to keep Ron Meeks on board since they run two completely different defensive philosophies, but I trusted Ron Rivera and believed that he knew what he was doing.
In retrospect, the decision to keep Meeks for one more year makes sense, because there's no point in bringing in someone new when you already know who you're going to hire in 2012 anyway. So, it appears that Rivera knew what he was doing after all.
How do you feel about this hire, Panthers Nation? Feel free to sound off in the comments section -- let's hear it!
Hat tip to Jake Humphrey for being the first to break this story via fan shot.
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With what I'm hearing he better be awesome.
I think he will be. However we will still need to bring in some talent in the DB area.
Fabulous hire IMO
Has a track record of improving defensive backfields, and evidently is a BAMF disciple.
As the saying goes…“Brick by brick, my citizens. Brick by brick”.
The only problem with socialism is that you eventually run out of other people's money.
-Margaret Thatcher
by Panther Fan in GA on Jan 16, 2012 1:43 PM EST reply actions
think there is any chance we get Hitman back
he finish in Detroit this year and is going to be a FA. With a different coaching staff, especial considering it include a coach he is familiar with and likes, he might like to come back. We could play him at SS and move Godfry back to FS, have him back up SS, or use him in nickel situations
He isn’t the same safety he once was, and gets beat in Pass Coverage a lot. Loved him when he was here, but that ship has sailed
Missed an LOL opportunity...could have said "Nope." again. :-)
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
There’s a reason why we let him walk, and then just a season later Chicago let him go, and then ended up as a only a backup in Detroit. Don’t get me wrong, I love the Hitman, but it just wouldn’t be a good movie. IMO
i wasnt expecting him to come in and dominate again
but we dont have a backup safety. we have Godfry, Martin, and Pugh. we need another saftey. He would be basically be a LB anyways
I'm good with the hire...
seems to have had success, has worked with Rivera on two different teams so he knows exactly what Wilks brings to the table, and is the guy Rivera wanted all along.
a little on Wilks
from boltsfromtheblue.com
Steven Wilks
Very well respected around the league and in San Diego. Was mentioned by some as the logical successor to Manusky as DC. If he gets an offer to be a Defensive Coordinator job somewhere, and I think he will, he’ll take it. If not, he could go work with Rivera in Carolina. There’s very little keeping him with the Chargers, especially with Quentin Jammer coming to the downslide of his career and Antoine Cason being as inconsistent as any starting CB in the league. He’ll get a lot of credit for turning Eric Weddle into a Pro Bowl Safety and making something out of Steve Gregory. Won’t get fired, but probably won’t come back.
by John Chilton on Jan 16, 2012 1:54 PM EST reply actions 3 recs
Good stuff John. Thanks for sharing!
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
so how long before we officially become the Carolina Chargers?
good hire based on his track record, but I don’t know how I feel about having all these San Diego folks join our team. I know the Chargers have been a good team over the years, but they also choke in the playoffs a lot. Whether that’s on the coaches, many of whom are now with the Panthers, or the players, many of whom are now with the Panthers, I don’t know.
We haven't brought that many players from SD...
And the coaches we brought seemed to do a good job.
I don’t think it’s that big of a deal. This stuff happens all the time. Head Coaches like to bring in guys they know and have worked with before, because usually they share the same offensive/defensive philosophy. That makes a huge difference.
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
You know it's funny...
BW might remember, but a few others probably have forgotten.
During the 2009 season, I said the team I wished we emulated was the San Diego Chargers. They were consistently at the top of their division and always in the playoff hunt (though the Patriots and Steelers have kinda stolen that show over the last decade).
It looks very much like that’s the direction this team is moving. I, personally, am just fine with going 10-6 on average every season over the last decade with 5 play off appearances. The Chargers lack consistency. No more or less. I don’t think that will be a problem here.
we got the best parts of the Charger coaching staff. Norv is what is killing them there secondary coaches are what keeps them afloat every year
Proud member of the Panthers Mafia!
Saving The Environment One Green Comment at a Time
"I don't see no ceiling. I don't see no breaking point." - Cam Newton
Norv is an offensive genius though...
He’s just having trouble getting things done lately. I’ll still take their record over the last 7 years.
3 coaches and somewhere in the ballpark of 5 players
I wouldn’t say we’re becoming the Carolina Chargers. And since the Chargers became choke artists before BAMF was there, and I’m sure Legetron, Alphabet Soup, and Applewhite had little to do with the choking as well as they were rotational/ST players.
apparently Rivera brought Wilks from Chicago with him to San Diego
so I guess technically he’s a Chicago guy.
by John Chilton on Jan 16, 2012 2:17 PM EST up reply actions
Love the hire
He has extensive ties to the area and has a track history of improving secondaries.
And its awesome to see another Mountaineer on the staff!
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
Wait and see...
Wilks definitely has the background and player respect to be successful. The more I read, the more I think he’ll be a better fit to run Rivera’s defense than McDermott if he fails one more year.
Other than that, I’m very excited to see what he does with Hogan, Munnerlyn, and Martin. Can’t be worse than last year, right?
by pantheredgar on Jan 16, 2012 2:18 PM EST via iPhone app reply actions
You're right...it would be extremely difficult to be worse than our secondary (minus Gamble) was last year.
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
I still think that Godfrey is a good safety
I just think that he’s better suited to play FS and he’s been in the position to make too many plays because of how bad our front seven is.
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
by Jake Humphrey on Jan 16, 2012 2:39 PM EST up reply actions
yeah
Think he was second in tackles on the team which is some consolation
Save us Pilares
by LimeyPanther on Jan 16, 2012 2:45 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
yeah
Think he was second in tackles on the team which is some consolation
Save us Pilares
by LimeyPanther on Jan 16, 2012 2:48 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Completely agree with you.
I don't always fail, but when I do...
I do it awesomely.
by BusyBeingAwesome on Jan 16, 2012 9:49 PM EST up reply actions
was thinking the same thing
Rivera gets a guy he knows and trusts just whose very solid just in case we have another bad defensive year? Seems like he’s grasping the head coach thing pretty well to me
Save us Pilares
by LimeyPanther on Jan 16, 2012 2:40 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Why wait
McDermott hasn’t done well, Wilks will get a DC job soon, and Rivera has experience building a defense with Wilks. Why not give Wilks the DC job now and let McDermott go? I am not a fan of having a lame duck year or constantly looking over your shoulder because the guy behind you is going to take over when you fail.
Because of the amount of injuries
McDermott wasn’t given the opportunity to run his defense. And every NFL coach has to look over his shoulder because he’s always at risk to lose his job.
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
by Jake Humphrey on Jan 16, 2012 2:58 PM EST up reply actions
every team has injuries; that's not an excuse to look awful
but i agree that it’s too soon to judge mcDermott after just one year with no offseason. if he stinks it up next year then we can say that the problem is him
I think it is an excuse to look awful
When you lose your veteran NT and two play-making LBs. We lost a higher percentage of talent to our defense than almost anybody else.
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
by Jake Humphrey on Jan 16, 2012 10:20 PM EST up reply actions
last year when the packers won the superbowl
they had 16 players on IR, many of whom were starters. it’s the next man up. im not saying they were expected to play as good as if the starters were healthy, i’m just saying there’s no excuse for looking as horrible as our defense looked last year
they didn't lose the majority of their starters though...
The players they lost weren’t as important to the team as the players we lost were.
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
my point is
that injuries are never an excuse to look terrible. like i said, it would be foolish to expect our backups to be just as effective as our starters but i would also think that they could still at least be competitive. and the only starters we lost that are proven to have a meaningful impact are beason and edwards. i wasnt completely sold on thomas davis considering he was coming off two knee injuries.
Ok but...
It was more than injuries. It was injuries + no OTA or complete offseason due to lock out+ new Defensive scheme which equal= un-coached backup players who lack consistency and understanding of the scheme.
"Hope for the best plan for the worst"
"They laugh at me because I'm different, I laugh at them because they're all the same"
Didn't the D get better as the year went on...
With the exception of a hot NO team at the end. One of the reasons that we won some near the end was because the defense improved once the starters went down. The practice squad guys played better. I know Davis and Beason will be a huge improvement tho. Remember when the D was struggling in the first 6 games or so, we were told that they had not learned the new system. Why did these last players learn so quickly when they went in?
I think MickeyD was struggling not the players.
"Shh! Be quiet everyone. That includes me. Shh! Who’s making that noise? Oh, it’s me again…"
by Panthster on Jan 17, 2012 9:11 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Yea, I like this hire a lot. It also tells me that come free agency we will be looking at a lot of Chargers players to possibly sign. Which is why I still think we go after Vincent Jackson, I’m not saying we will sign him but I expect to hear news reports stating that we are one of the teams intrested in him if chargers don’t re sign him.
It just makes too much sense for us to atleast pursue him.. He has proven success in this offense, a former Charger with ties to Chud and Rivera, Chud will probably get a lot more power behind the scenes now to build the offense he likes.. If Chud and Rivera can convince Hurney to sign Shockey, anything is possible. Shockey would have been the anti Hurney and JR signing along with the trade for Olsen, don’t be suprised to see a pretty big offensive signing in FA if Chud has his way.
I don’t mind us bringing in former Chargers.. Any good defensive FAs this year that are currently Chargers?
by PantherTrain on Jan 16, 2012 2:27 PM EST via mobile reply actions
I highly doubt we sign V-Jax
And it’s mainly because of how much money he would cost to sign. We’re going to have limited cap space, and I don’t think we’ll use most of it on Jackson.
One Charger FA to look out for is NT Antonio Garay. He’s 6’4", 320 lbs. and would be a good fit for our defense if he’s cheap enough.
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
Yea I heard his name on here before, he seems solid. Seem like a signing we could afford?
by PantherTrain on Jan 16, 2012 2:37 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
Yeah, he should be cheap enough to sign to a deal.
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
its gonna be great having free agency before the draft again
Should give us a fair idea of where we’ll target in the draft. With brockers declaring I really could see us rolling the dice on him
Save us Pilares
by LimeyPanther on Jan 16, 2012 3:00 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I've heard people say he's a Pro Bowl calibet NT.
"Hope for the best plan for the worst"
"They laugh at me because I'm different, I laugh at them because they're all the same"
Plus...
I like his CRAZY hairstyles bringing something new to the environment.
"Hope for the best plan for the worst"
"They laugh at me because I'm different, I laugh at them because they're all the same"
by Efury on Jan 16, 2012 10:07 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Woah.
Cam Newton, when a reporter asks him who will win the Heisman Trophy on Saturday: "I'll tell you Sunday."
by Son of a Newton on Jan 16, 2012 11:15 PM EST up reply actions
why do we need this guy?
When we’ve got ron the crazyhorse edwards returning… Is he really good? Or just a guy? If he’s the later, then what’s the point… We have plenty of those
Save us Pilares
by LimeyPanther on Jan 17, 2012 4:53 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
Let's be fair to JAG's
Most of the guys we have at DT are not JAG’s, they’re warm bodies. Ron Edwards is the definition of a JAG.
Garay on the other hand would be a definite improvement over Edwards, and certainly over whoever plays the other DT spot. I’m not saying he’s an absolute stud but he’s a borderline Pro Bowler.
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
by Jake Humphrey on Jan 17, 2012 8:23 AM EST up reply actions
We may also pick up the aforementioned Steve Gregory at Safety. He wants a starting gig...
ProFootballFocus.com isn’t keen on him, but they’re not always right.
Free agent SS Steve Gregory says he will test the open market this offseason in search of a starting job.
“I feel like I’m a legit starter in this league,” said Gregory, who started 13 games this past season, but not by design. He was thrust into the lineup by Bob Sanders’ year-ending injury. Unfortunately, Gregory may not be pleased by what he finds on the market. He graded 74th among 86 NFL safeties by Pro Football Focus this season, and caused just one turnover (a pick six). Jan 5 – 12:51 PM
Source: NBC SanDiego
So much to be done, and so few people willing to do it for me.
He'll be starting every year if Bob Sanders is ahead of him.
Just perennially injured.
by jojoisthemann on Jan 16, 2012 8:12 PM EST up reply actions
if sanders could stay heathy he would probably be a game changer like ed reed. he is hof calibre when hes on the field.
"Don't tell me about the pain, just bring me the baby" Cam Newton
by braves&panthers4ever on Jan 16, 2012 8:51 PM EST via Android app up reply actions
I would like to throw a bone at Bob Sanders
no guaranteed money of course. But he could really help out if he manages to stay on the field. If not, no harm done, just let him go
We don't have the money to get Jackson.
Get that thought out of your head altogether. We don’t spend big in free agency.
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
by Jake Humphrey on Jan 16, 2012 2:37 PM EST up reply actions
And Shockey wasn't an anti-Hurney signing
He was a solid veteran that was undervalued by the market. That’s a CLASSIC Hurney signing.
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
by Jake Humphrey on Jan 16, 2012 2:38 PM EST up reply actions
This.
The only argument though would be his reputation to be an asshole. We normally don’t sign guys like that.
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
None that I know of...
But Shockey has said he wants to return, even if it’s at a reduced rate. He’s happy here.
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
I also think with this hiring that means we will be taking Dre K or another CB with our 1st pick..
by PantherTrain on Jan 16, 2012 3:17 PM EST via mobile reply actions
How?
Our secondary sucked so we fired our coach and hired another one. This doesn’t change anything that wasn’t true last week.
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
by Jake Humphrey on Jan 16, 2012 3:22 PM EST up reply actions
He's just using this as an excuse to change his mind again.
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
Not changing my mind at all. I’ve always said I’d like Dre K, currently I favor a pass rusher and sack artist like a Whitney Mercilus or maybe even a Quinton Coples, but one thing is for certain. After watching the playoffs this weekend, not only do I think we should go D in the 1st round, I think we should go D in all the rounds!
by PantherTrain on Jan 16, 2012 3:36 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
But I thought you said teams like the Saints and Packers proved you don't need defense?
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
Yea I was wrong big time lol, I found out this weekend real fast.. The Saints and Packers all season where teams built on a house of cards. What happened this weekend changes everything. Infact, I honestly wouldn’t mind if we focus all our efforts on D this off season and our offense continues like it finished, more running and less passing.
Passing 50 times for a million yards is fine for the regular season but come playoff time you get shut down.. I am completely off the WR bandwagon now for the draft. Defense, defense and Defense! Here is my perfect scenario..
Round 1- Dre K
Round 2- Andre Branch
Round 4- OLB
Round 5- safety
Round 6- MLB
Round 7- DT
OR
Round 1- Whitney Mercilus
Round 2- Chase Minnifield
Rest of the rounds same as above.
by PantherTrain on Jan 16, 2012 3:51 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
The only way I see us taking Mercilus is if we trade back about 5 spots.
Taking him 8/9 overall is a reach.
I like Minnifield, and wouldn’t have a problem with getting him in the 2nd round.
And see, we told you so re: defense being more important than offense in the playoffs. You should listen to us more often. :-)
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
Lol.. Infact I want us to be just like the 49ers, If that means Cam being more of a “game manager” so be it, watching yesterday’s games brought back great memories when we had a stout D.
Lol.. Infact I want us to be just like the 49ers, If that means Cam being more of a “game manager” so be it, watching yesterday’s games brought back great memories when we had a stout D.Andre Branch is on my radar lately along with Melvin Ingram. I want a Aldon Smith type DE, sacks are one of my favorite plays in footballs. Just as good as TDs if you ask me.
by PantherTrain on Jan 16, 2012 3:58 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
No.
I would never want Cam Newton to be a “game manager” and frankly I don’t think he’d accept that role either.
I want the us to emulate the 49ers Defense, Yes but Cam has too much potential to be a “game manager”. A good balance is key. Plus Alex Smith showed that he can be more than just a “game manager” during the last game winning drive. If he hadn’t stepped out of being a “game manager” and executed those plays I don’t think the 49ers win that game. In fact they wouldn’t have.
"Hope for the best plan for the worst"
"They laugh at me because I'm different, I laugh at them because they're all the same"
True but what classifies as a game manager today equals hall of fame QB 20 years ago. Go back and look at Joe Montana and Troy Aikman’s stats, they would be considered “game managers” compared to today’s PS3 Madden QBs..
by PantherTrain on Jan 16, 2012 6:46 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
If they played these days, they'd be lighting up the scoreboards with their counterparts today...
Yet again, you need to actually watch these guys playing instead of just looking at some NFL.com stat sheets….
Nobody fucks with the Jesus! -Big Lebowski
You don't draft a physical specimen such as Cam with skyrocketing potential...
to throw and run so that he can be a “game manager”. That’s what the Andy Daltons of the world are for, LOL.
"Hope for the best plan for the worst"
"They laugh at me because I'm different, I laugh at them because they're all the same"
there is so much wrong with this comment
The 49ers need the Saints to turn the ball over 5 times and still got lucky to win. You can’t depend on 5 turnovers every week. They also gave up huge plays to allow the Saints to take the lead twice in the last ~4 mins. If anything anyone should have learned this week is that if you win the turnover battle you have a better chance of winning the game.
To be fair the 49ers defense is the main reason they went 13-3 in the regular season, and they were one of only 4 teams that were able to beat the Saints this season.
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
I agree they have a great d
But to say you want us to be just like the 49ers is crazy.
Oh I know. I'm not disputing that part. :-)
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
Kneejerk reaction?
P-Train would never do that.
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
there's no such thing as a "lucky" win in the NFL
other than the broncos beating the bears. but i agree that the score was pretty tight considering the 5 turnovers
That's because their offense is not really that potent.
"Hope for the best plan for the worst"
"They laugh at me because I'm different, I laugh at them because they're all the same"
Yeah but, that was a response to why the score wasn't more apart.
If the Saint’s Defense had gotten 5 turnovers, this would be totally different story perhaps a blowout.
"Hope for the best plan for the worst"
"They laugh at me because I'm different, I laugh at them because they're all the same"
Cam is not a game manager
He’s a game changer. We aren’t’ going to be the 49ers.
"What do want to say to those critics now?"
"Just sit back and watch the show." -Cam Newton
Minnifield makes me think of trading back.
If we can get Cincy to give us their first round and second round picks for our first round pick then we’d be in the money.
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
by Jake Humphrey on Jan 16, 2012 3:59 PM EST up reply actions
They may not be opposed if trent richardson is still there
"One step at a time"
by mcdonaldwr on Jan 16, 2012 6:45 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
I’m against us taking anybody in the first round who has a girls name
Save us Pilares
by LimeyPanther on Jan 16, 2012 4:15 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
How does hiring a new D-Backs coach indicate in any way what we'll do with the draft?
If we had hired him last year we wouldn’t have taken PP7.
"What do want to say to those critics now?"
"Just sit back and watch the show." -Cam Newton
He's a good daily brain teaser
"What do want to say to those critics now?"
"Just sit back and watch the show." -Cam Newton
I like the signing for 1 reason only.
Rivera can be comfortable with his staff. If he gets to pick his team and staff that should make for a better environment for him. I think the D will get better based solely on the fact that we will have some solid players coming off IR and they will help. 1 player doing a better job in his spot helps the rest of the defense do better at theirs. Not saying Wilks won’t earn his pay or anything like that, just saying.
STICK THE KNIFE IN AND TURN IT!!!!!
OT: Saints DC Gregg Williams is leaving the Saints for the....
Rams
by rscott94 on Jan 16, 2012 3:38 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Hmmm....interesting.
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
I wish they would have kept him.
The Saints defense has not been very strong, their offense has kept them in and won their games.
STICK THE KNIFE IN AND TURN IT!!!!!
Wonder if this means the Rams will now have a chippy, dirty, floppy defense?
"I may be old but...eh, I forget the rest!"
Nah, it just means they'll blitz too much, and give up a lot of big scoring plays.
Williams is very overrated.
You think they're mad now, wait until Los Angeles steals their franchise.
You tried your best and you failed miserably. The lesson is 'never try'. -Homer Simpson
by Swamp Panther on Jan 16, 2012 5:16 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
that'll never happen
LA will get a team again eventually, but my bet is that it’ll be the Jags or the Vikes that move. Maybe even Buffalo.
i'm thinking maybe oakland
the davis’s love to move and his son has said he wouldnt mind doing it again
That's technically possible...
But the Raiders do well as far as ticket sales and fan base support, do they not?
Some teams just get absolutely no love from their local markets. Like Tampa Bay. Last year I don’t think they sold out a single game…
true. logically the raiders have absolutely no reason to leave
but when was the last time the davis family was logical
So far I like the hire but it is still very early
However, if he can do for the Panthers what he did for San Diego and the offense continues to grow and play at a high level, then I am very certain there will be good days or years to come.
Integrity first. Service before self. Excellence in all you do. -- USAF Core Values
by Disciple of Carolina on Jan 16, 2012 4:21 PM EST reply actions
Good hire. He's got as measurable record of success, which Meeks didn't possess.
Nice breakdown, Bdub, of the contractual reason behind the timing of this move.
good hire
he is an upgrade for sure
by allthatremainsstillowns on Jan 16, 2012 4:52 PM EST reply actions
Carolina Chargers?
Three of the guys we brought in from San Diego likely wont be back in Applewhite, Aritiju, and Naanee they were just people who were brought in because they knew the system and there wasnt ample time to teach it with the lockout taking away alot of learning time
by allthatremainsstillowns on Jan 16, 2012 4:54 PM EST reply actions
I think they will bring back Naanee and Applwhite not Aritiju.
I would not think neither Naanee or Applewhite would cost that much to keep with this team. They both can be backups and special teams guys at least.
Agree
Rivera already said Applewhite would be back next year.
Both of you
It’s Ajirotutu. No excuse for that awful a butchering of his name. You’re already on a computer. Google it. Takes two seconds.
Sorry for the Grammar Nazism
Come on man...even I'm not that bad.
I can forgive the misspelling of Ajirutoto.
It’s not like his name is easy to spell like Knewtin, Grose, Gambel, or Stuart.
(I hope you see what I did there.)
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
I know it's hard to spell
But it’s like if you know you don’t know how to spell it, type it into Google. I do it if I’m not sure on how to spell something. It literally takes like 5 seconds.
And I does see what you did their.
At the rate you're regressing, JdeL, it'll take you 8 seconds next time.
C’mon, man. Time is money.
I'm impressed with the pick.
Not only has he proven he can fix our abysmal (minus Gamble) secondary, but he is already on the staff and familiar with players/coaches if McDaywalker can’t show some improvement next year.
Bravo BAMF, bravo.
You tried your best and you failed miserably. The lesson is 'never try'. -Homer Simpson
by Swamp Panther on Jan 16, 2012 5:04 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Competition
Rivera believes in competition for the players why not for the coaches, also to push them to being more.
i think he will be a really good coach
On that note I feel like it’s necessary to say our entire secondary isn’t as desperate as it seems. Granted, sherrod digressed tremendously and Cap’n looked consistently out of place as a #2; but, Gamble had a pro bowl year, Godfrey was solid (had his usual ups and downs..more ups than downs), and in very limited play Butler and Hogan both showed potential. A big part of the inflated passing stats on our defense was LB’s in coverage. A good coach to get Sherrod back on track (he has so much physical potential) and the only thing we’re truely missing is a #2 cb who could potentially be on the roster.
*I’m not opposed to Dre K; I just think some of the guys we have can be turned around and have a lot of potential.
"One step at a time"
by mcdonaldwr on Jan 16, 2012 6:58 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
And it often takes a superior coach to help them achieve their potential.
Meeks was not that coach.
Love the signing
This guy has proved he’s a good coach.
Wild Thought.
Would it be to far fetched to say this could be another step into going to a 3/4 defense in this offseason. It could happen more quicker then people think with only a few adjustments. Let me explain. Wilks can help improve the secondary and get them to play in the 3/4 scheme. There really isn’t much of a deference in the learning curve for the secondary in this scheme. Second we pick up a guy like Garay that has played the nose in the 3/4 so there is one piece. Third move Hardy and McClain to the to other D ends in the front 3. 4th move CJ back to be a stand up rush LB. Anderson and Beason in the middle. Then draft Courtney Upshaw to play the other rush LB. Then with the second pick pick up either a Poe or Coples if they are still on the board for front line depth. It is not to far of a reach to think that.
I don't think that's going to happen.
Rivera and McDermott use the 4-3 more than they use the 3-4. I think what they’re going to do is build a defense that’s a 4-3 but can show a 3-4 look from time to time.
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
I know that is more likely the truth BW.
It was some food for thought. You never know what could happen in the future if Mickey D’s does not work out for Rivera in the future. I am curious if Rivera was more successful in running the 4/3 scheme in Chicago ot the 3/4 with San Diego. One thing is for sure now Wilks was coming here the whole time and we as Panther Nation did not know it. I wonder what other tricks coach Rivera has up his sleeve.
In 2006, the Bears had the 3rd best scoring defense, giving up 15.9 PPG under Rivera.
In 2008, the Chargers had the 15th best scoring defense, giving up 21.7 PPG.
In 2009, the Chargers had the 11th best scoring defense, giving up 20.0 PPG.
In 2010, the Chargers had the 10th best scoring defense, giving up 20.1 PPG.
It’s a small sample size, but he has better success running the 4-3 in terms of points allowed. But, to be fair that Bears defense had some nasty playmakers on it.
The reason I think they’re going to stick with the 4-3 is because both McDermott and Rivera worked for the Eagles at the same time and studied under legendary DC Jim Johnson, and Johnson’s base defense is an aggressive blitzing 4-3 scheme.
The truth will set you free, but not until it is finished with you. ~David Foster Wallace
I may not always be right, but even a blind nut finds a squirrel every once in a while.
Thanks for the info BW.
I want to see who the personnel if any we bring in during free agency to help the defense. Maybe it is not as exciting as the draft but it can have just as big an effect on the direction of the defense as the draft has. I really think will see some familiar faces leave our defense as many as new faces come in. Some the players out there are just not the answers we need at positions. I beleive will see this offseason the guys Rivera wants to carry over from Fox’s tenure and the new ones he wants under his own. With the shortened offseason this year he did not have ample time to evaluate all things needed thoroughly. With everything back to normal business I think will see more defensive change in personel than what people are expecting. Just my opinion.
All those people who want us to get Branch or Coples or Merculious
Seem to forget that CJ us an elite pass rusher yet to be in his prime, and Hardy can make that next step in 2012. Drafting a DE in the first few rounds would be completely stupid when we have much bigger fish to fry.
"What up? We're three cool guys looking for other cool guys who wanna hang out in our party mansion. Nothing sexual. Dudes in good shape encouraged. If you're fat, you should be able to find humor in the little things." Again, NOTHING SEXUAL
"I'd rather jerk off a tiger in a phone booth than draft Cam"
-Mel Kiper, Jr.
you guys are like a bunch of pirahnas
by chop goes da weazel on Mar 31, 2011 12:32 PM PDT
by MikeTrain on Jan 16, 2012 7:01 PM EST via mobile reply actions
Agreed
Sticking with a healthy combo of BPA and need I think it comes down pretty easily to OL or CB (I hope we can trade back with someone even though I know it’s unlikely)
"One step at a time"
by mcdonaldwr on Jan 16, 2012 7:31 PM EST via mobile up reply actions
We need a DT to help unleash the beasts we have at DE
but yea, I don’t see how we pick a DE within the first 3 rounds without some ridiculous steal being available lol
Nobody fucks with the Jesus! -Big Lebowski
I would rather sign a very decent DT in free agency...
so that the defensive line and especially our pass rushers can get more done.
I know that Brockers did not seem that impressive during the video that I posted but if everyone is clamoring about what the guy can become than I would suggests that they draft him and develop. Signing a DT like Garay from SD and developing Brockers into a pass rushing DT sounds great and would make our Line beastly.
"Hope for the best plan for the worst"
"They laugh at me because I'm different, I laugh at them because they're all the same"
He seemed to wake up against UGA around the same time the rest of their defense woke up...
I mean shit, if you were to watch Cam against Oregon and base your impression on that game alone, you would have thought he was maybe the 4th or 5th QB in last year’s draft lol
Nobody fucks with the Jesus! -Big Lebowski
Watching the 49ers Defense reminded of what a very good defense is capable of.
It’s also very entertaining to watch especially when it is going up against the best Offense in the NFL.
Anyways, if we want a 49ers-like defense; we are going to need to improve the D line first and foremost and that would start with getting more talent in the middle. Drew Brees and the Saints were finally rattled during the that game and this should serve as blue print especially for us since they’re in our division and we face them twice a year.
The Packers Pass Offense went from being top 5 last year to being absolute ASS this year. The consensus thoughts on the downfall among the GBs defensivebacks according to commentators, seemed to have derived from the departure of Cullen Jenkins in the middle of the Defense. That might have also contributed to the downfall in Clay Matthews’ sack numbers this year.
Therefor if we want to better our defense we have to start from the line, which is the base for overall success, and then work our way down to the defensive backs. I would suggests to skip the LB position and go straight to DBs after the line because the LBs don’t worry me as much especially with the return of Beason and potentially Davis.
"Hope for the best plan for the worst"
"They laugh at me because I'm different, I laugh at them because they're all the same"
Unless you have a pair of sure-fire Pro Bowlers rushing the passer
Then adding more pass rushers is never NOT a good idea. Look at the Giants, they have THREE elite pass rushers.
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
by Jake Humphrey on Jan 16, 2012 10:18 PM EST up reply actions
i dont agree with this
You can never have enough awesome defensive ends… But to be fair I’m not a fan of the de’s in this draft. Hardy has to prove he’s more than a powerful rotational guy next year
Save us Pilares
by LimeyPanther on Jan 17, 2012 4:59 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
You can never have to much talent on DE
It’s huge when you can rotate talent in, look at the Lions game this year. Many successful teams have that luxury. I do agree that we need to upgrade DT as well, but to me you get more bang for your buck with a DE than a DT with that high pick. Take DT in the second round or a safety if Barron drops.
"Shh! Be quiet everyone. That includes me. Shh! Who’s making that noise? Oh, it’s me again…"
by Panthster on Jan 17, 2012 9:52 AM EST via mobile up reply actions
4-3 Suits Our Team
We don’t have the OLB’s who can be edge rushers like Clay Matthews or Terrel Suggs. We also don’t have a DT who can play the role that Casey Hampton plays for the Steelers in there defensive front.
This Draft we need to add towards our struggling secondary ( Besides Gamble) and add depth to the linebackers with TD not being able to stay healthy. Also Draft a DT who can be productive as a potential starter next to a healthy Ron Edwards.
My Draft Wish List
1 – Dre K / Justin Blackmon — (Depending on if he falls. I believe he has the intangibes to easily transition to the NFL and become a dynamic duo with veteran like Steve Smith. Giving Cam a bigger deep threat down the field if Gettis doesn’t pan out)
2 – Brandon Thompson / Chase Minnifield – (Depending if Blackmon Falls)
4 – Keenan Robinson
5 – Aaron Henry
6 – WR
7 – OL
I can agree with this.
Cam Newton, when a reporter asks him who will win the Heisman Trophy on Saturday: "I'll tell you Sunday."
by Son of a Newton on Jan 17, 2012 1:02 PM EST up reply actions
I think that both of our safeties can be...
really good if coached up, which is what Rivera is really good at, however we cannot and should not rely on their potential to become better. Therefor, I fully expect Ron Rivera to go along treating this situation like he would treat all others and bring in plenty of competition to see who rises to the occasion.
Rivera has stated that he likes the potential of our safeties even after Martin had looked pretty shitty at times yet he also said that if you wait on potential it can be troubling. So I say bring in as much good quality competition to the Defensive Back field and see who steps up.
"Hope for the best plan for the worst"
"They laugh at me because I'm different, I laugh at them because they're all the same"
agree ef.
and that coincides with a counter point i wanted to bring up about what pt sad earlier. the hiring of a new coach could just aseasily forshadow us not taking any db’s early. a better coach should be able to coax more results out of our unit without an infusion of new talent.
"Don't tell me about the pain, just bring me the baby" Cam Newton
by braves&panthers4ever on Jan 16, 2012 9:03 PM EST via Android app up reply actions
I say if we decide to go away from taking a DB in the first round..
we’d probably draft one in the second or third. Whether it’s a CB of a safety. Rivera likes to bring in competition and push guys to get better and compete. Although I think that with good coaching our current safeties even Pugh can be decent if not more. Remember he also liked Pugh a lot at the beginning of the season. I have full faith that Rivera can get the most out of our players after seeing what he did with SD’s defense last year(#1 ranked) with a bunch of no-name players and no Pro-Bowlers. It just takes time and coaching.
"Hope for the best plan for the worst"
"They laugh at me because I'm different, I laugh at them because they're all the same"
Here's a thought.
Laron Laundry is a free agent this year. Does anyone think he could be a player the Panthers would sign for that safety competition. Plus I am all for upgrading the d-line. That is how I believe we would best use our 1st round pick. A lot of us need to remember we were playing other teams scraps through out most of this season. We truly have not spent a 1st rd draft pick on the defensively line since Peppers. That is way to long to go without first round talent on that side of the ball.
He's been very injury prone
I don’t think we’ll be going after him for that reason. If we’re looking to blow our free agent load on a safety then I’d prefer Tyvon Branch.
But I think we’re going to end up with Steve Gregory.
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
by Jake Humphrey on Jan 16, 2012 10:24 PM EST up reply actions
Branch would be a great signing methinks, certainly from a cost-benefit perspective
Nobody fucks with the Jesus! -Big Lebowski
by Tomthehomer on Jan 16, 2012 11:01 PM EST up reply actions
He can't cover for shit...
So he’d fit right in with our safeties lol
Nobody fucks with the Jesus! -Big Lebowski
by Tomthehomer on Jan 16, 2012 11:00 PM EST up reply actions
Did anybody else see that he's not just the secondary coach?
He’s also been named the “passing defense coordinator”. Very interesting.
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
What does that even mean..?
I mean… I can’t see how that could be any different than the coach of the secondary.
I saw it as:
secondary coach/passing defense coordinator. Which implies that secondary coach and passing defense coordinator are synonymous.
"Hope for the best plan for the worst"
"They laugh at me because I'm different, I laugh at them because they're all the same"
I don't think so
I may be mistaken, but I don’t think Meeks was referred to as a coordinator of any kind other than “ex”. I think this may mean he’s going to have a bigger role than most DB coaches have, such as having an extended role in helping McDermott create gameplans.
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
by Jake Humphrey on Jan 17, 2012 1:49 AM EST up reply actions
IDK, You might be right.
"Hope for the best plan for the worst"
"They laugh at me because I'm different, I laugh at them because they're all the same"
Given that Wilks has been a NFL coordinator candidate at least twice in the past
As well as being SD’s assistant head coach last year and Rivera’s “guy”, I think that makes sense.
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
by Jake Humphrey on Jan 17, 2012 1:54 AM EST up reply actions
I suppose you're onto something.
However, as long as he can fix our secondary issues the way he fixed SD’s…I’m good. The title does intrigue my interest though. I wonder what his complete role will be.
"Hope for the best plan for the worst"
"They laugh at me because I'm different, I laugh at them because they're all the same"
So McDermott will handle blitzes and the Front Seven (for the most part) while Wilks handles the Secondary.
Cam Newton, when a reporter asks him who will win the Heisman Trophy on Saturday: "I'll tell you Sunday."
by Son of a Newton on Jan 17, 2012 1:04 PM EST up reply actions
I think that's extrapolating a bit too much from this...
I mean.. How does a defensive coordinator call up a blitz from the secondary if someone else is giving those people instructions?
This just sounds like a complete logistic nightmare. McDermott is still the DC. To whatever extent Rivera allows him to run it, that’s how it will be run.
Yeah, I don't quite agree with what SoaN was saying either.
I think it’s moreso what I stated above.
Follow me on Twitter at @JakeHumphrey91
by Jake Humphrey on Jan 17, 2012 1:41 PM EST up reply actions
Naanee and Applewhite
I gues I didnt hear rivera say that Apllewhite was coming back but fact is he came here for less money actually got a better deal from San Fran and is size ways more suited for a 3-4 lb spot. Naanee hit the 40 catch marker last year which puts his salary up more then what he was making and as often as we put more then three wrs out there at once and Gettis returning we are more likely sticking with a guy we drafted like Pillares over a guy like Naanee whose drops and deflections turned into picks killed us early in the year. Ajirotutu fine spelling bee champ there it is could care less about a roster filling wr that did nothing last year but whatever
by allthatremainsstillowns on Jan 17, 2012 10:29 AM EST reply actions
punctuation and grammar are your friend
This comment section has officially been Tater'd.
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