Jim Schwartz expected to be fired
Detroit Lions head coach Jim Schwartz looks on during the third quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at Mall of America Field at H.H.H. Metrodome. The Vikings defeated the Lions 14-13. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports
The Detroit Lions collapse at the end of the season costed them a spot in the playoffs, and it should cost Schwartz his job. His coaching style has led to an undisciplined team, and undisciplined teams have a tendency to collapse. Despite having less critical injuries and a more talented roster than both the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers, Schwartz was still unable to lead this team to the playoffs and orchestrated a horrendous overtime loss to the New York Giants in Week 16 that knocked the Lions out. His boorish behavior has drawn the ire of the fan base, and his own lack of composure on the sidelines has likely trickled down to create a lack of discipline.
Additionally, Schwartz’s inability to coach on offense hurts the Lions, because Matthew Stafford desperately needs a coach who can help take him to the next level. Stafford has undeniable talent, but he is an inconsistent quarterback. He’s a gun-slinger with top-five arm talent, but he has terrible footwork and does a poor job of reading through his progressions; hiring a head coach with the ability to work with QBs is of paramount importance.
Most people believe and expect the Lions to fire Schwartz after missing out on the playoffs, but ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported yesterday that the team is leaning towards keeping the embattled head coach. Now, FOX Sports’s Jay Glazer reported that Schwartz is slated to receive his walking papers after missing out on the playoffs. While Glazer added that Schwartz’s firing isn’t a lock, it seems like he fully expects the Lions to cut ties with him.