Edwards promises offensive changes for Chiefs - Page 16

Oz_Chief · 01-07-2007, 10:59 PM

...but Solari stays.

http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercu...s/16406684.htm

By Adam Teicher

McClatchy Newspapers

(MCT)

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - One day after a pathetic performance bounced his team from the playoffs, Herm Edwards promised offensive changes for the Chiefs in 2007.

Edwards said he couldn't be specific about many of the changes because they are still to be decided. But he indicated they would probably include a different scheme_and maybe a new starting quarterback.

They won't include a new coordinator. Edwards said Mike Solari would continue in that job no matter what type of offense the Chiefs use.

Edwards also said defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham and the rest of his assistant coaches would be welcome to return next season.

Edwards has contemplated changes through the course of a bumpy offensive season. Saturday's 23-8 loss to the Colts in a first-round playoff game in Indianapolis helped drive home the point.

The Chiefs had 126 yards and failed to get a first down until their eighth possession.

"We didn't handle their speed real well," Edwards said.

"We have to take a hard look at ourselves. You have to be realistic and ask yourself if we're really capable of (successfully running their current system). I want to make sure of one thing: Whatever type of system we run, young players have to be able to play. They can't wait a year or two to get on the field. I don't want to be in a situation where young guys who have some talent can't play because the system is too complex.

"There are some things we do very well. There are things we can do even better. That's what I'm talking about here: How do we do these things better? It's not a laundry list of things. These are just things that allow us to get the football to the right players."

Edwards said the Chiefs would keep their power running game centered on Larry Johnson and a play-action passing game. But they will simplify by cutting back on the number of plays and their complexities.

Those changes would be aimed toward making things easier for younger players. Edwards wouldn't identify those players he would like to play more next season, but he may have been talking about rookie wide receivers Jeff Webb and Chris Hannon and perhaps even rookie quarterback Brodie Croyle.

"I just know it has to be player-friendly," Edwards said. "It has to be something that young players at all positions can play. I want to give the quarterback even more ability to change some things at the line of scrimmage. I want him to have the ability to get to anything we have right now.

Edwards wouldn't address the issue of whether Trent Green would return as the starting quarterback. Green's play dropped off significantly this season after he missed eight games because of a concussion.

"That's not even something we're discussing right now," Edwards said. "There are a whole lot of other things we have to do as far as the program before we start worrying about player situations. That's second on the agenda."

But his refusal to back Green, who will turn 37 next summer, speaks loudly. The conservative Edwards believes in ball control above all. Green committed three turnovers in the final regular-season game against Jacksonville and three more in the loss to the Colts.

He had no such hesitation about supporting Solari, a career offensive-line coach until promoted to coordinator by Edwards this season.

"I told Mike today that he did a good job for his first year," Edwards said. "That's a tough seat he's sitting in. A lot of the things that happened to us - losing some players, losing the quarterback_affected him. He had never called an offensive play. That's hard. He will be so much better next year. It won't even be close.

"Mike's the guy. He's going to be a heck of an offensive coordinator. Next year will be a lot different for him. I was so much better my second year as a head coach. He'll gain more confidence. He knows me better now. Mike had to learn the passing game. You don't learn that in a year unless you're a coordinator. He was an offensive-line coach. That's something he had to go through."

Edwards also said he was pleased with how he and Cunningham worked together.

"We think a whole lot alike as far as the things we want to get done," he said. "I know people think he's blitz-crazy, but he's really not. He's got to do what the players allow him to do."

ROYC75 · 01-09-2007, 10:26 AM

Do ya think the players bought into the media we were going to run it down there throats ?

Not a chance, we are just old and slow on the OL.

FAX · 01-09-2007, 10:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KCTitus

Kicking is a special teams issue, not offense. Of course, so is tackling.

About 3 years ago or so, KC had all the players it needed to catch, run, and block it needed, but not tackle...but I digress.

You're right, of course, Mr. KCTitus. Kicking does fall into the category of special teams although the quick kick may, in fact, be an offensive play. I'd have to look that up. Nevertheless, I failed to recognize that we were limiting the subject to offense only. My error.

So, basically, we need players that can catch, run, block, pass, love each other and make a decent coconut macaroon and we'll be fine.

FAX

crazycoffey · 01-09-2007, 10:28 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KCJohnny

Ouch. Poor trooper. I've been ABN/AASLT most of my career. I don't like tanks. They're dangerous!

I was an MP for 5 years and did some reserves after active to finish up my IRR. Just finishing my degree (7years of night school - yuck) and putting together my warrent officer packet - CID not flight.

Did some air assualt training in the army, lots of fun. had more fun rappelling on a SWAT team in the Dallas area, not telling what department. but we did a few drills from the top of a 30 story hotel down to make an entrance from the balcony.

I miss those adrenaline rushes.

KS, huh, like watching people make little rocks out of big ones?

Chiefnj · 01-09-2007, 10:29 AM

FAX,

Do you now understand the lament and warning of Jet fans? On paper making the playoffs 3 of 5 years looked good. I looked much better than what was going on in KC during that time period. But, as odd as it sounds, a Herm Edwards playoff appearance isn't always what it appears to be.

KCTitus · 01-09-2007, 10:33 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FAX

So, basically, we need players that can catch, run, block, pass, love each other and make a decent coconut macaroon and we'll be fine.

FAX

We're really making some progress here...we should have this nailed down come the end of June just in time for Camp! I think the real issue is how we weight these abilities. Im thinking the macaroon needs to be #2 or #3...of course that's probably a weeks worth of debate.

FAX · 01-09-2007, 10:43 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Chiefnj

FAX,

Do you now understand the lament and warning of Jet fans? On paper making the playoffs 3 of 5 years looked good. I looked much better than what was going on in KC during that time period. But, as odd as it sounds, a Herm Edwards playoff appearance isn't always what it appears to be.

I honestly didn't pay any attention whatsoever to what the Jetski's were saying on the Planet, Mr. Chiefnj. Generally, I try to make up my own mind about things based on what I see. Unless, of course, Mr. htismaqe or Mr. Baby Lee tell me what to think about stuff.

In the early going, I was supportive of Herm. Very supportive. I no longer believe that he is head coaching material. So far, this team reminds me more of Gunther's effort than Marty's except Gunther was not such a skilled liar. I hope and pray and wish upon a star and call upon the aid of all angels to prove me wrong. But, at this point, he gets credit from me for a pretty good draft and that's about it which makes me concerned for his ability to pull this thing off going forward.

I can tell you this, though. I've never felt this badly about the Chiefs' prospects. Ever. The franchise just looks like a PR machine to me.

FAX

FringeNC · 01-09-2007, 10:44 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by GoChiefs

Really?

Willie Roaf used to execute just fine against Dwight Freeney.

Yet Jordan Black got abused. And Shields got abused by Booger McFarland all game long.

Might Willie's talent had something to do with that, along with Solari being Oline coach instead of OC? Or does Jordan Black suck because he's a lazy no-good, DV-gangbang bum?

As in my original post, I contend execution is a function of talent, effort, and coaching. We in the anti-Herm crowd choose coaching and to a lesser extent, ability or lack thereof, as the cause of Saturday's nightmare. You in the pro-Herm crowd choose either effort and/or ability.

Maybe the middle ground position of it's all ability is right. Maybe it is all just because Jordan Black (and a few others) suck, but I am skeptical.

Hammock Parties · 01-09-2007, 10:47 AM

Hey, it's clear Jordan doesn't have the talent. But there's something fishy going on when Brian Waters and Will Shields go out and knock heads with Marcus Stroud and John Henderson and win one week, then lose the battle the next against Booger McFarland and Raheem friggin' Brock. Was it really that loud?

The Colts defensive line looked twice as motivated as our offensive line. PATHETIC.

crazycoffey · 01-09-2007, 10:52 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FringeNC

Maybe the middle ground position of it's all ability is right. Maybe it is all just because Jordan Black (and a few others) suck, but I am skeptical.

Nah, your right, middle ground sucks.

The O-line ate a big sh*t sandwich this year. Willie retires = deflated Morale + age and Injury = less morale and less confidence. some people moved around from the right side to the left, this makes a difference too and put it all together, the O is our weak leak, was once our strongest link and now is our weakest. Weaker than DT, WR, MLB, QB, FB.

In conclusion, be skeptical.

**Baby Lee** · 01-09-2007, 10:55 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FAX

Unless, of course, Mr. htismaqe or Mr. Baby Lee tell me what to think about stuff.

Is there a reason for this newfound snark?

Generalized Malaise?
Restless Leg Syndrome?
Urine soaked toasted corn breakfast cereal products?

FAX · 01-09-2007, 11:02 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Baby Lee

Is there a reason for this newfound snark?

Generalized Malaise?
Restless Leg Syndrome?
Urine soaked toasted corn breakfast cereal products?

I'm unsure. I may well have had a mild stroke during the second quarter, Mr. Baby Lee.

Actually, and as I'm sure you already know, I hold your opinions in the highest possible regard. Especially your views on the use of spectroscopy to determine the chemical composition of star systems which I have found to be both enlightening and inspirational.

FAX

**Baby Lee** · 01-09-2007, 11:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by FAX

Actually, and as I'm sure you already know, I hold your opinions in the highest possible regard. Especially your views on the use of spectroscopy to determine the chemical composition of star systems which I have found to be both enlightening and inspirational.

FAX

FTR - just so everyone is aware, the use of spectroscopy is just as effective in determining the chemical composition of star systems that Fax expressly doesn't find enlightening and inspirational, or star systems he is outright indifferent towards.

crazycoffey · 01-09-2007, 11:07 AM

Not to talk political, but brief change of topic, to world news, just long enough to say, Hell yes!

Somali official: U.S. strikes al Qaeda suspects

U.S. helicopter gunships today attacked suspected al Qaeda terrorists hiding in Somalia, a Somali official said. The operation came a day after U.S. Special Operations forces launched at least two air attacks against suspected al Qaeda members

NewChief · 01-09-2007, 11:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Baby Lee

FTR - just so everyone is aware, the use of spectroscopy is just as effective in determining the chemical composition of star systems that Fax expressly doesn't find enlightening and inspirational, or star systems he is outright indifferent towards.

Dangling modifier humor: guaranteed to bring the house down every time.

EM31 · 01-09-2007, 12:25 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by crazycoffey

Not to talk political, but brief change of topic, to world news, just long enough to say, Hell yes!

Somali official: U.S. strikes al Qaeda suspects

U.S. helicopter gunships today attacked suspected al Qaeda terrorists hiding in Somalia, a Somali official said. The operation came a day after U.S. Special Operations forces launched at least two air attacks against suspected al Qaeda members

"At least two" air attacks eh? I think we can pretty much rule out certain coaches as having had input into THAT gameplan then.

01-07-2007, 10:59 PM
Oz_Chief Starter Join Date: Apr 2003 Location: USA Casino cash: $-2004899	Edwards promises offensive changes for Chiefs ...but Solari stays. http://www.mercurynews.com/mld/mercu...s/16406684.htm By Adam Teicher McClatchy Newspapers (MCT) KANSAS CITY, Mo. - One day after a pathetic performance bounced his team from the playoffs, Herm Edwards promised offensive changes for the Chiefs in 2007. Edwards said he couldn't be specific about many of the changes because they are still to be decided. But he indicated they would probably include a different scheme_and maybe a new starting quarterback. They won't include a new coordinator. Edwards said Mike Solari would continue in that job no matter what type of offense the Chiefs use. Edwards also said defensive coordinator Gunther Cunningham and the rest of his assistant coaches would be welcome to return next season. Edwards has contemplated changes through the course of a bumpy offensive season. Saturday's 23-8 loss to the Colts in a first-round playoff game in Indianapolis helped drive home the point. The Chiefs had 126 yards and failed to get a first down until their eighth possession. "We didn't handle their speed real well," Edwards said. "We have to take a hard look at ourselves. You have to be realistic and ask yourself if we're really capable of (successfully running their current system). I want to make sure of one thing: Whatever type of system we run, young players have to be able to play. They can't wait a year or two to get on the field. I don't want to be in a situation where young guys who have some talent can't play because the system is too complex. "There are some things we do very well. There are things we can do even better. That's what I'm talking about here: How do we do these things better? It's not a laundry list of things. These are just things that allow us to get the football to the right players." Edwards said the Chiefs would keep their power running game centered on Larry Johnson and a play-action passing game. But they will simplify by cutting back on the number of plays and their complexities. Those changes would be aimed toward making things easier for younger players. Edwards wouldn't identify those players he would like to play more next season, but he may have been talking about rookie wide receivers Jeff Webb and Chris Hannon and perhaps even rookie quarterback Brodie Croyle. "I just know it has to be player-friendly," Edwards said. "It has to be something that young players at all positions can play. I want to give the quarterback even more ability to change some things at the line of scrimmage. I want him to have the ability to get to anything we have right now. Edwards wouldn't address the issue of whether Trent Green would return as the starting quarterback. Green's play dropped off significantly this season after he missed eight games because of a concussion. "That's not even something we're discussing right now," Edwards said. "There are a whole lot of other things we have to do as far as the program before we start worrying about player situations. That's second on the agenda." But his refusal to back Green, who will turn 37 next summer, speaks loudly. The conservative Edwards believes in ball control above all. Green committed three turnovers in the final regular-season game against Jacksonville and three more in the loss to the Colts. He had no such hesitation about supporting Solari, a career offensive-line coach until promoted to coordinator by Edwards this season. "I told Mike today that he did a good job for his first year," Edwards said. "That's a tough seat he's sitting in. A lot of the things that happened to us - losing some players, losing the quarterback_affected him. He had never called an offensive play. That's hard. He will be so much better next year. It won't even be close. "Mike's the guy. He's going to be a heck of an offensive coordinator. Next year will be a lot different for him. I was so much better my second year as a head coach. He'll gain more confidence. He knows me better now. Mike had to learn the passing game. You don't learn that in a year unless you're a coordinator. He was an offensive-line coach. That's something he had to go through." Edwards also said he was pleased with how he and Cunningham worked together. "We think a whole lot alike as far as the things we want to get done," he said. "I know people think he's blitz-crazy, but he's really not. He's got to do what the players allow him to do."
Posts: 416

01-09-2007, 10:26 AM	#226
ROYC75 Time For Your Wake Up Call !!! Join Date: Oct 2000 Location: Barn Yard Casino cash: $2327400	Do ya think the players bought into the media we were going to run it down there throats ? Not a chance, we are just old and slow on the OL. __________________ Our society is run by insane people for insane objectives. I think we're being run by maniacs for maniacal ends and I think I'm liable to be put away as insane for expressing that. That's what's insane about it. John Lennon
Posts: 37,931

01-09-2007, 10:29 AM	#229
Chiefnj MVP Join Date: Aug 2000 Location: Willis, Harris and Davis. Casino cash: $10004900	FAX, Do you now understand the lament and warning of Jet fans? On paper making the playoffs 3 of 5 years looked good. I looked much better than what was going on in KC during that time period. But, as odd as it sounds, a Herm Edwards playoff appearance isn't always what it appears to be. __________________ "I always tell (the assistant coaches), 'Make it simple, 'cause I'm stupid,'" Edwards said. "This ain't computer football." Herm Edwards, 3-20-07 Q: Herm, back on December 25th you were asked if Trent Green was your starter going into next season and you said, ‘yeah, why wouldn’t he be?’ Have you changed your mind on that? EDWARDS: No, I have not.” (1-11-07)
Posts: 6,811

01-09-2007, 10:47 AM	#233
Hammock Parties I'll be back. Join Date: Nov 2002 Casino cash: $1030478	Hey, it's clear Jordan doesn't have the talent. But there's something fishy going on when Brian Waters and Will Shields go out and knock heads with Marcus Stroud and John Henderson and win one week, then lose the battle the next against Booger McFarland and Raheem friggin' Brock. Was it really that loud? The Colts defensive line looked twice as motivated as our offensive line. PATHETIC. __________________ Chiefs game films
Posts: 296,717

01-09-2007, 11:07 AM	#238
crazycoffey .......... Join Date: Dec 2006 Casino cash: $4167901	Not to talk political, but brief change of topic, to world news, just long enough to say, Hell yes! Somali official: U.S. strikes al Qaeda suspects U.S. helicopter gunships today attacked suspected al Qaeda terrorists hiding in Somalia, a Somali official said. The operation came a day after U.S. Special Operations forces launched at least two air attacks against suspected al Qaeda members
Posts: 28,392