Dirk Koetter Named Tampa Bay Head Coach
January 14th, 2016
[UPDATE 11:30 p.m.: It is official. The Dirk Koetter introductory press conference is tomorrow at 2 p.m. Of course Joe will be there!]
The Buccaneers have a new head coach, a first-time head coach.
The alleged exhaustive, no-stone-unturned search by general manager Jason Licht ended inside the walls of One Buc Palace, per NFL.com.
Your new Bucs head coach is 56-year-old Dirk Koetter, last years’ offensive coordinator and playcaller — and mentor-in-chief to America’s Quarterback, Jameis Winston.
Koetter, the tell-it-like-it-is favorite of the local media, was given the keys to the Jameis express.
Team Glazer made the safe choice by buying stability for its 22-year-old franchise quarterback. And what could be more important?
Can Koetter be an effective head coach? Nobody knows. He had good teams from 1998-2006 at Boise State and Arizona State, but that’s not the NFL. Not even close.
Koetter has earned respect from the many who played under him when he was offensive coordinator with the Bucs, Jags and Falcons, where he produced top-10 offenses in all three stops. It’s a long list, from Maurice Jones-Drew to Matt Ryan and Roddy White and Vincent Jackson. But being an OC does not compare to being a head coach.
Joe likes stats-loathing Koetter and believes he has the ability. But Joe has no idea whether Koetter has the pull to draw a quality staff — for an organization that very well might blow him out of the water in one year. Joe is certain Team Glazer plans on leaving the NFC South cellar immediately — for the first time since 2010.
The next era of Bucs football is here. There’s hasn’t been an offensive guru head coach in the house in an awfully long time. And it’s nice that Koetter knows exactly what fans “give a sh*t about.”
January 14th, 2016 at 6:27 pm
And the “real” fans rejoice!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:28 pm
Nice
January 14th, 2016 at 6:28 pm
QB coach, To be promoted OC I’m sure. Now we can focus on getting a good DC. I don’t want Mike Smith, which much rather have Jim Schwartz.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:28 pm
Congrats to the Glazer family for making the decision to move this team forward from last year!!! The “real” fans can me excited again!!!!
Go Bucs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:30 pm
Obviously, the “search” was nothing of the sort. Regardless, it’s a good move because of Jameis. Dirk’s staff hires will be critical, especially on defense, and Licht must bring in the talent. If they do then we will be a playoff team next season. Go Bucs!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:30 pm
Glad to be first to comment. They swung for Saban I believe. He wouldn’t answer the phone hence mcadoo promoted. So bump up the next best. He’s ready. We had the best offense in Bucs history (6,000 yards air and ground) if I hear garbage time again. Dude you don’t think the 1st overall picks ever had garbage time. Peyton played his first season in garbage time and didn’t hit 4,000 so stop beating that drum. Games Brees lost he was throwing for 500 in his 5,000 yard season with games out of line so shut up be happy because we are going to the playoffs in the next two years. Depending on FA and defensive scheme of likely our own former rival Mike smith could be this year. And licht will be drafting all defense mark my words. Unless he sees a Kwon Alexander like slot receiver in the 4th
January 14th, 2016 at 6:31 pm
hell yeah muthatruckers!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:32 pm
Jim Schwartz + Gerald McCoy + Kwon + lavonte and if they can get Mario Williams = dominant defense
January 14th, 2016 at 6:32 pm
This why I stayed OUT of the debates. It was a done deal the day Lovie was fired, but everyone and their mom wanted to speculate. With some of you repeating the same stuff over and over again a daily basis.
There really was no debate to debate.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:32 pm
Oh and the “I DONT WANT MIKE SMITH CROWD”—-as I already stated to Joe Rich McKay did absolutely nothing to get a defensive minded coach talent. Not every former head coach was stupidly given full control. Except the draft apparently where AcDc goes off to work
January 14th, 2016 at 6:33 pm
Good move. Kind of interesting, but the Bucs needed consistency on the offensive side of the ball, but pretty much need the exact opposite on the other side of the ball; a completely different approach to how the 4-3 defense should be played.
As important a hire as this is, the DC is almost as important, as that group is just as much disarray as the offense was last year. Only difference is there is definitely some talent on D, more than there was on the offense this time last year.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:33 pm
Oh and Go Bucs. Go Koetter!
Let’s do this right in 2016 tough schedule or not. Bring it on.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:34 pm
Congrats to coach DK
Hope this is the right choice and I hope that he continues calling his own plays
January 14th, 2016 at 6:34 pm
Good move. Now get Schwartz!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:34 pm
@Buc1987
too true!!! the real debate is the DC!!!! where is the poll for that Joe?????
also, we actually might see the reins removed the the true 4 vert offense this year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Go Bucs!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:34 pm
THANK YOU!!! Smart choice. Now D-UP and its ON!!!!!! Who does everyone think the DC should be???? Or will be?
January 14th, 2016 at 6:34 pm
good hire
January 14th, 2016 at 6:35 pm
Nice. Mike Smith for DC makes too much sense.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:35 pm
Just shows u how they didn’t believe in Lovie ball… Good koetter just get a good DC
January 14th, 2016 at 6:35 pm
I am light years happier than the Lovie hire. I wanted Gruden back but that wasn’t going to happen and who knows if he still has the fire. Good job Mr Licht. Good luck coach. I’ll root for you until I stop feeling the love. Let’s get it done.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:36 pm
Here we go! Trains leaving the station ….All aboard! Congrats Bucs! This will be better than another year of Lovie ball!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:37 pm
We missed you 1987, but did have fun in your absence! Now, how about some DC speculation?
January 14th, 2016 at 6:39 pm
@rojas
Who’s gonna be the OC?
Really lol?
Koetter will be the OC!!
Duh!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:40 pm
YES! Great move by the Glazers and the organization.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:41 pm
Very excited for 2016
January 14th, 2016 at 6:42 pm
I remember people calling him Lovie’s successor last year. LoL. Congrats Dirk. Get us a respectable D and with Jameis by your side, you will be a legend!! GO BUCS!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:42 pm
Talent wins football games, and this team has little. good luck coach you will need it.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:43 pm
Perfect hire.
I will actually be watching the HC pressers again. Love this guy’s personally. It’s a Great day in Tampa Bay.
Pinch me, this seems like a fairytale.
#Superbowlbound
January 14th, 2016 at 6:43 pm
@ “TheKevin”
I’m sure Koetter, will promote Mike Bajakian the QB coach to OC.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:44 pm
Yesssssssss!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Mofokin YEAH BABY!!!!!!!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:44 pm
Dc ?? Who Mike smith ?
January 14th, 2016 at 6:44 pm
Hopefully Koetter can gather the following assistants
Head Coach: Dirk Koetter
Asst. Head Coach/ Defensive Coordinator Jim Schwartz
Offense
• Offensive Coordinator: *Mike Mularkey
• Offensive Line Coach: George Warhop
• Wide Receivers Coach: *James Lofton
• Quarterbacks Coach: Mike Bajakian
• Tight Ends Coach: Jon Embree
• Running Backs Coach: Tim Spencer
Defense
• Defensive Coordinator: *Jim Schwartz
• Defensive Line Coach: Joe Cullen
• Line Backers Coach: Hardy Nickerson
• Defensive Backs Coach: *Donnie Henderson
January 14th, 2016 at 6:47 pm
Congrats Coach Koetter!!! Go Bucs!!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:47 pm
Bucs Fan Since ’76 …I like Swartz so far. I don’t know if that’s because he’s unemployed or not.
Anyone else.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:48 pm
I just hope he doesnt bring in mike smith as the dc. Atl defense was never very good under his coaching. I agree jim schwartz
January 14th, 2016 at 6:49 pm
Mike Smith seems like the most likely choice given his long history with Dirk, although it would be an odd juxtaposition.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:49 pm
Just read Eagles are interested in Jim Schwartz as a DC.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:50 pm
As I stated before he was fired, the only scenario I would be on board with for firing another coach in only 2 years would be for Dirk. Now let’s all hope he can get a good DC. I would not be thrilled with Mike Smith!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:50 pm
@Buc1987
Mike Smith!! I saw the defense he ran back with the Jags! I got to see the Moday night Steelers vs Jags game and it was the hardest hitting most violent game I have seen
And he also gets a points because he looks like Grandpa Munster!!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:52 pm
I would like Schwartz far more then Mike Smith. Don’t see that happening though.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:53 pm
I’d like to know the staff.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:54 pm
Realist…I know Swartz is a hard ass too and that’s what I want see.
Anyways…most of the D needs to be gutted and rebuilt.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:55 pm
Great hore
Now get Schwartz or Mike Smith for DC.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:55 pm
I’m Johnny Dejay, and I approve this coaching hire.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:57 pm
Not my #1 choice, but it was the safe choice.
Congrats on the promotion Coach Koetter. Dont let is down!
First priority- get this defense back on the map, who he picks as DC will be the critical decision.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:57 pm
Worst kept secret in football… Thank god they finally announced it… Now we don’t have to hear the name John Gruden and Nick Saben for a few more years…
Oh brother!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:57 pm
Good pick now on to DC get ur staff and get to work.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:57 pm
The one thing I do know is it’s going to be much more fun this off-season as I was dreading this offseason with Lovie Loser making many of the decisions for our team.
January 14th, 2016 at 6:58 pm
I am pleased with the Koetter hire…however I do agree that being a H.C in the nfl is a lot different than a coordinator or a college H.C…I also think what 98 % of us thought after Lovie was fired that Koetter was the guy but the Glazers and J Liht had to do what I call damage control I mean the 2 guys Lovie hired or help to be hired have both taken over Lovies job. Think about it if you were a top coaches being sort after by the bucs….my first thought would be can I trust them or the people on staff there. As I’ve said over and over Lovie should’ve been fired…poor win record…bad defenses. .and a hell of a lot of bad free agents but this is a business and building winners and making profits aren’t always pretty
January 14th, 2016 at 6:59 pm
@Buc1987
If you compare the 2, the more aggressive defense should be Schwartz! I thought I saw that a comparison where Schwartz lead a more penalty lead defense than Smith
Also It should be considered that Schwartz is most likely to take a Head Coaching Job at first chance he gets!!
January 14th, 2016 at 6:59 pm
Come to think of it, if Dirk is confident in Mike Smith’s abilities, then he makes the most sense by far. The reason is that Dirk does not have to spend one second getting to know Smith, his schemes, and philosophies. Both are already intimately familiar with how the other conducts business, teaches, etc. There is something to be said for hitting the ground running. Hiring Smith would ensure a faster, smoother transition. His experience as a successful head coach could be a major plus as well.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:00 pm
@rojas
You’re so wrong. Koetter will call the plays
Koetter is an offensive guy and he will call the plays.
We don’t need an OC when the guy just promoted was the OC.
He can be head coach and call the plays and that’s what will happen.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:00 pm
The bad thing for me is that i don’t like Mike smith or Jim Schwartz. They both just rub me the wrong way. I could never stand seeing either of them on the sidelines. Always look so dooshy. Lol but i dont see any better candidates now that we dont have a HC position available.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:01 pm
Congrats Coach Koetter!
Do To This Team What You Did With Your Offense, And Maximize Our Potential!!!
NO HOLDING BACK LIKE THAT LAST GUY! GO HARD KOETTER!!!!!!
GO BUCS!!!!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 7:02 pm
Wasnt the falcon defense like never good under mike smith? Why do people like him?
January 14th, 2016 at 7:02 pm
Smart move
January 14th, 2016 at 7:03 pm
@trubucfan
Yes the Falcons under smith had a terrible D.
Why in the world would we want MIKE SMITH?
His Falcons never had a good defense lol
Idiots
January 14th, 2016 at 7:04 pm
76…Yeah I think it might just BE Mike Smith. It just makes too much sense.
Then there’s that whole Grandpa Munster thing. lol Realist!
January 14th, 2016 at 7:04 pm
There will be an OC named, but, Koetter will still call the plays. I can’t think of any instance in my entire, college or NFL where there wasn’t a coordinator in place, even when the head coach still call the plays.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:05 pm
What about Joe Cullen as DC?
January 14th, 2016 at 7:05 pm
YEAH BABY!!!!!!!!!
I haven’t been this excited since my hubbie decided to leave the country!!
January 14th, 2016 at 7:06 pm
According to Bleacher report Greg Aumon just spoke to Mike Smith about our DC job and he declined comment.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:09 pm
Yea great.
MIKE SMITH NEVER HAD A GOOD DEFENSE IN ATLANTA.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:09 pm
In 2yrs, fickle Buc fans and press will be calling for Koetters head. Be careful what you wish for. Worst hire in recent Buc History. Lets see Koetters spin at the podium when the losing starts.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:09 pm
Great, now I really can’t wait until next year. ..Quick thought, does Koetter draft offense now?
January 14th, 2016 at 7:09 pm
And Im ALL IN on getting Schwartz!
R.I.P. To Laid-Back-Lovie! GO HARD IN 2016!!!
GO BUCS!!!!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 7:11 pm
@mike Johnson
I love to see all these fans act all happy and then in a year or so the guy is a bum and sucks and needs to be fired lol
January 14th, 2016 at 7:14 pm
Nice. Now what about the defense?
January 14th, 2016 at 7:15 pm
Very written Joe
January 14th, 2016 at 7:16 pm
Just wondering why we are settling for 2 guys who did nothing in jacksonville together, then nothing in Atlanta together and now want those same 2 in Tampa together. Im a fan of Koetter, not a fan of Mike Smith. But
I will support whoever we hire. I was just hoping for something to get excited about. We all figured this would happen, it’s just anti climatic.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:18 pm
Worst case scenario is Koetter finishes in the NFC South basement next year. Can you say with total certainty that Lovie smith wold do better? I’d say no probably not.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:19 pm
While Lovie may go down as one of the worst coaches in team history, may also go down as “setting the table”, if this DK hire proves successful (let’s say 3 playoff appearances in the next 5 years, or a SB win), the Lovie should get credit for “setting the table” for this group, because without him there’s no Licht, Koetter nor Winston on this team.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:20 pm
The Force awakens! GO BUCS!
January 14th, 2016 at 7:21 pm
I don’t think any of you actually watch football.
Why in the world would we want mike smith when his teams in Atlanta had terrible defenses
Can any of you experts answer that?
January 14th, 2016 at 7:23 pm
We all kind of knew that this was going to happen as it was the most logical and smart move
Now comes the important hire, the Defensive Coordinator. I know that most folks want Schwartz or Smith, but do not be surprised to see the Bucs totally change up their scheme. 6 out of the 8 teams left in the NFL playoffs play some form of 3-4 defense. I know the Bucs really don’t have the personnel for it at this point, but with lots of cap space and a draft, they could get it. This year it didn’t look like they had the personnel to run a 4-3 either
January 14th, 2016 at 7:24 pm
@T in Orlando
Does Sam Wyche get credit for “Setting the Table” because he is the one who got all of the Hall of Famers and pro-bowelers???
January 14th, 2016 at 7:25 pm
Why would ANYONE – want Mike Smith to be the New DC?
Mike Smith Defensive Rankings (Total Yards)
• 2014 ATL 32nd
• 2013 ATL 27th
• 2012 ATL 24th
January 14th, 2016 at 7:27 pm
“Koetter won with Lovie’s team”
January 14th, 2016 at 7:28 pm
@luvmybucs
These idiot fans don’t understand facts. It’s Chinese to them.
Everyone screaming for mike smith?
Bunch of da m idiots.
MIKE SMITH?
How stupid would that be.
Buc fans are the dumbest fans out there.
MIKE SMITH lmao
No D in Atlanta sure lets hire him lmao
January 14th, 2016 at 7:28 pm
where are the articles joes? when lovie was hired there were many. same with schiano and morris, or am i mistaken?
January 14th, 2016 at 7:29 pm
@LuvmyBucs
Now do the total points, it might look a little better!!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 7:30 pm
Lurker
Always crying about something.
Go drive your Prius.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:30 pm
you want lovie, theidiot. what defense was there? don’t you also want glennon?
and you are calling names…smh. silly, man.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:31 pm
@bucrealist
That sounds an awful lot like a bend but don’t break defense doesn’t it?
Geeze what’s wrong with you people.
That’s to similar to what we just had.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:31 pm
The DC predicament we are in is why i would prefer we had hired a DC to be the HC and promote Koetter to Asst HC. It would give us our pick of any defense and still have our OC. Hopefully Koetter is able to entice someone other than Mike Smith. Not a fan of his.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:32 pm
If Koetter has a very strong DC….he could still call plays….his Offensive coaches are still in tact…so his management duties as HC would be easier than most….Payton seems to have done a pretty good job with his offenses….but he had serious problems with his defense.
It is also possible that Mike Smith was distracted as a head coach and that cost him on defense…he may be better if he only has to concentrate on defense.
My mind is open on the DC……but I want a very aggressive coach.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:32 pm
@lurker
No stupid I never wanted glennon.
And I’ve said numerous times I don’t care who the coach is just give them some time to build a team.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:36 pm
Sup fellas. NO to Mike Smith, what is this the Tampa Falcons? Didn’t we just finish the Tampa Bears experiment? I’d rather give DC to Hardy and let him learn than f’n Mike Smith. His defenses were garbage.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:38 pm
Please dont pull a Lovie/Gruden (With Tim Jennings, Tim Brown, etc.) and bring in Roddy White lol
January 14th, 2016 at 7:38 pm
I think i would prefer that koetter didnt call the plays. Hire a Oc that shares his philosophies so Koetter can be a true head coach and not just focus on offense. He needs to not just lead this offense but the entire team. It’s hard to do when you are spending all your time with the offense. Hopefully koetter takes this HC job seriously and doesn’t just focus all his effort on the offense.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:40 pm
Not for nothing, but do the Bucs plan to confirm they hired Dirk? There’s nothing on their website.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:40 pm
“The Kevin” …you’re so easy to just ignore these days.
Why do any of you bother with this clown when he’s gotten so much stuff wrong since he’s been here?
January 14th, 2016 at 7:41 pm
Koetter wont pick the dc. Licht will
January 14th, 2016 at 7:41 pm
76…yah I know, but Bay News 9 has it flashing on the bottom of the screen.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:44 pm
Thank God!!!!
Now lets get the right DC!!!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 7:45 pm
I know ’87. Everyone but the Bucs is reporting it as fact. I’m just wondering out loud WTF Licht and the Glazers are waiting for. Presumably the media is hammering them for confirmation.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:46 pm
Not feeling Smith.
Would rather look at experienced coaches on longtime good defensive teams, like Baltimore. Also, Jim Leavitt coached some good defense at USF. He’s coached 4 seasons with the 49ers, so he had pro experience. Schwartz is probably my top pick. He’s a nut but he coaches a nasty defense. I will take some penalties when they are actually making big plays too.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:47 pm
I’m not all in on Mike Smith. I’m just saying it’s a possibility and it makes sense that they would hire him.
Kevin Says:
January 14th, 2016 at 7:41 pm
“Koetter wont pick the dc. Licht will.”
Yep so it’s anyone’s guess as of right now.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:47 pm
@buc1987
What are these things I’ve gotten wrong mr perfect?
You act like you’re some know it all savont.
You don’t know sh it about anything.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:47 pm
GO BUCS!!!!!!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 7:48 pm
Why not give Hardy Nickerson an interview for DC?????
January 14th, 2016 at 7:49 pm
@buc1987
You’re dumb as a wet bag of shi t
You want mike smith?
Did you watch any Atlanta games?
Never once had s good defense.
Just stfu you old fu ck.
You’re about as smart as wet paint you stupid bean eating idiot.
“Mike smith”
You dumb as s
January 14th, 2016 at 7:50 pm
The NFL.com report that broke this said they were in negotiations. From there everyone is reporting like its a done deal. To me that means the Bucs have not announced it yet because the contract is not signed yet.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:50 pm
but what do I know.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:50 pm
“TheKevin” ….you’ve been put on the ignore button for BEING well… ignorant.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:52 pm
@buc1987
“Mike smith makes too much sense”
How f ing stupid are you?
He never had a defense in Atalanta and this is who you want?
My god you’re special.
Anyone who wants mike smith shouldn’t be allowed to watch football ever again.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:52 pm
I want someone more proven than Hardy. He has never been a DC and being that he is a Dungy/Lovie product, that is a bit worrysome.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:53 pm
@1987
You should be put down for so stupid
“Mike smith”
Lmao what an idiot lmao
Mike smith lol.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:54 pm
Someone reported Joe Cullen might be the DC, Schwartz is still my top choice. I don’t want Mike Smith. Would rather have Nickerson as a DC then Smith.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:55 pm
Mike smith as DC is the funniest sh it I’ve heard all day lmao
January 14th, 2016 at 7:57 pm
Didn’t Hardy play in a 34 defense too? You never know what style of Defense he would bring. He saw what does not work last year.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:57 pm
POP THE CAMPAIGN BOTTLES!!!!! WE’RE GOING TO THE SUPER BOWL!
January 14th, 2016 at 7:58 pm
Look at this spaz. The short bus won’t be pulling up in the morning, there’s no school tomorrow kid.
January 14th, 2016 at 7:58 pm
Alrighty now let’s give the man some time to build a team.
Go Bucs
January 14th, 2016 at 7:59 pm
I would take Cullen over Smith but that to is a little frightening. To much inexperience at HC and DC.
January 14th, 2016 at 8:00 pm
Go take your stupid pills except double up on them this time.
Drink your bud light out by the fire by your trailer.
And wear your crocs
January 14th, 2016 at 8:03 pm
Yes I am happy too, but who will be the new DC? I have seen the comments and some I like and some I don’t. However, whoever we get can’t do worse that Lovie did. That was bad. There is some talent on the defensive side of the ball. I good coach should do something with it!
January 14th, 2016 at 8:04 pm
Best choice IMO – I think promoting Koetter to head coach was pretty obviously the plan from the getgo when they fired Lovie.
Who he decides upon for Defensive Coordinator and the needed secondary coaches will be important decisions. I believe Licht said the new HC would have full control over the hiring of his assistant coaches.
Atlanta’s defense with Mike Smith in control was terrible – so that would be a bad hire IMO despite the pre-existing relationship and ties to Koetter.
I’m guessing Bajakian may get a promotion to OC title but will still work closely directly with Jameis – just a hunch. Cullen may also receive DC consideration….
Congrats coach Koetter! Lets go kick some NFC south ass next year..
(Hope springs eternal for Bucs fans every off season – LOL)
At least we’ve got a real QB now with some quality offensive firepower (Evans, Martin, Sims, Vjax hopefully – etc) and one of the top offensive minds in the game locked up for as long as he can keep the arrow pointing mostly up and have success. Jameis will be a big help for the new HC in that regard I believe…
January 14th, 2016 at 8:05 pm
Thank God. This is great move if he gets a DC that can light a fire under their a**. Make them stop the stupid penalties and figure out a way to get off the field on third downs. Otherwise we are back on the coaching hunt in 2-3 years from now.
January 14th, 2016 at 8:05 pm
“TheKevin” Says:
December 27th, 2015 at 4:11 pm
Yea so all you haters can go suck it. LOVIE IS THE COACH.
cry and moan all you want but guess what! LOVIE is the coach.
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHA.
Bunch of cry babies
January 14th, 2016 at 8:06 pm
Not sure why everyone is so down on bringing Mike Smith in as the DC. Already has head coaching experience and a working relationship with Dirk K. Also, I love his brand of defense as he is anything but a “system” guy. He plays a little bit of everything 4-3, 3-4 etc. His versatile approach is just what this team needs right now to keep apposing offenses guessing.
January 14th, 2016 at 8:07 pm
“The kevin” Says:
December 21st, 2015 at 11:29 am
@schmoie
You’re an idiot. How is Jameis succeeding despite lovie? You realize lovie wanted him right? Guess you give no credit to the guy that picked him. You know the guy that has complete personnel control. Yea lovie smith. You may not like lovie but to say Winston is succeeding despot lovie is plain stupid and shows you’re an idiot moron that’s just plain stupid on top of it.
Stfu you buc hater and gtfoh. Stupid moron.
January 14th, 2016 at 8:10 pm
Quote me Buc1987. . . oh wait you can’t. . . because everything i said was right xD
January 14th, 2016 at 8:10 pm
What’s up 87 it’s been a while
January 14th, 2016 at 8:10 pm
LUVMYBUCS, cherry pick much re: Mike Smith?
Go look at his D rankings the 9 years before the 3 you picked and tell me what his defenses were like.
I’m not advocating Mike Smith, but he cut his college & pro teeth on coaching tough defenses.
January 14th, 2016 at 8:11 pm
@The Kevin
87 is right and you are a moron. Let me clue you in. Google and Wikipedia are your friends. Your posts look moronic.
then nothing in Atlanta together
Nothing in Atlanta. WOW!!! JUST WOW!!! Can we simply go with some FACTS courtesy of Wikipedia. Cmon guys you can do better!!! Stop making moronic UNSUBSTANTIATED CLAIMS about Koetter or Mike Smith!!!
In his second season, Smith and the Falcons overcame a difficult schedule and several key injuries (to QB Ryan and RB Turner) to end up with a 9-7 finish and second place in the NFC South.
While they failed to reach the playoffs, this marked the first time the team had ever had back-to-back winning seasons.
In 2010, he led the Falcons to a NFC-best season record of 13-3, earning the team’s second NFC South title and fourth divisional championship overall before being beaten at home by the eventual Super Bowl XLV champions, the Green Bay Packers, 48-21 in the NFC Divisional Round.
The 2011 season ended with another winning record (10-6) and Smith’s third playoff appearance (a first-round loss, by another eventual Super Bowl champion, the New York Giants).
In 2012 Smith led the Falcons to a league best 13-3 record and recorded his first win in the postseason as Falcons head coach, edging the Seattle Seahawks 30-28 in the 2012 NFC Divisional Playoffs. With the win, Atlanta also made their 3rd all-time appearance in the NFC Championship Game, and hosted the game for the first time in their history against the San Francisco 49ers. The Falcons were beaten 28-24 after taking the lead 10-0 in the 1st Quarter.
Guys I’m not lobbying for Smith or Schwartz. I’d be happy with either. What I am lobby for is stop the freaking stupidity. Can you at least take the time to google before insulting us with misinformation like “The Kevin”!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 8:14 pm
DB55…lol I’ve been looking for you. I thought Joe booted you again…
January 14th, 2016 at 8:17 pm
@Realist
also, we actually might see the reins removed the the true 4 vert offense this year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yea bro!!! With Lovie gone I can see we’re once again going to agree!!!
I’m excited by that as well…especially IF Evans cures his dropsies and ASJ gets healthy and cures his Evans like head problems and dropsies..and Murphy returns to form and VJAX has a couple of good years left..and Brate and Humphries continue to grow….we have the targets…we have the OL..we have the running game to keep them honest…let er rip!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 8:17 pm
AMEN and GO BUCS!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 8:19 pm
Allow me to save you the time “The Kevin”.
“You all are so stupid idiots moron dodo caca heads with extra stupid and whole lot of idiot. So stupiddddddddd”
January 14th, 2016 at 8:21 pm
@stpetebuxfan
LMAO YOU DUMBAS S
Mike smith never had a defense in Atlanta you idiot.
We were not talking about records we were talking about a DC
And mike smiths Atlanta team sucked on defense.
@1987
I’m not afraid to admit I was wrong about LOVIE. I’m a man and can admit I thought they would keep him so you’re right. I was wrong.
@stpetebucfan
You’re a dumba ss If you want mike smith.
January 14th, 2016 at 8:22 pm
@couchfan
I looovvvveee it.
January 14th, 2016 at 8:22 pm
He did. Shhhh
January 14th, 2016 at 8:24 pm
💩 “Hi! I’m ‘The Kevin’, and you all are a bunch of stupid doodies.”
January 14th, 2016 at 8:25 pm
@bucfansince76
Music to my ears.
January 14th, 2016 at 8:33 pm
Man some serious shade is being tossed on JBF this evening. I’ve been warring on lovie sympathizers on the NFL articles but it seems the real juicy debate is on lol
January 14th, 2016 at 8:35 pm
The DC selection process will be interesting. The challenge for me is not knowing who the young gun defensive assistants are in the League. I’m sure Licht knows. The questionable do they select one of those young guns? Does Dirk go for Smith based on familiarity, his success as a HC in ATL, and perhaps more importantly his phenomanal success as a DC in Jax? Does he go for Schwartz, who rumor suggests is interested in the Philly DC position? Or does he pursue a top college assistant?
January 14th, 2016 at 8:37 pm
“What are these things I’ve gotten wrong mr perfect?
You act like you’re some know it all savont. ”
just look at your sentence, theidiot. it is all kinds of wrong. you were wrong about lovie, koetter, and your parents loving you.
theidiot, not just a member of the short bus, but the driver!
January 14th, 2016 at 8:38 pm
Lets get some Wins!!!!! That’s all we want oh and throw mE the ball in the redzone
January 14th, 2016 at 8:42 pm
Thank you. The ONLY choice without turning the franchise backwards again.
The only debate has been “who is the DC since day 1”.
I don’t know the answer to that. Dirk was a no brainier. DC can vary greatly. If love someone to get aggressive with Lavonte and Kwon. They are so fast. They could probably rack up sacks.
Oh … And go SIGN MARIO WILLIAMS!! He has a chip on his shoulder and has a few great years left.
January 14th, 2016 at 8:44 pm
Please stop calling for an all defense draft.
Yes they need DB and DE in the 2 of the first 3 rounds, but it’s an offensive leave and they need another WR too.
And an OL should always be drafted in the later rounds
January 14th, 2016 at 8:48 pm
YES!!!!!!!!!!!!
GO BUCS!!!!!!!!!!!
January 14th, 2016 at 8:48 pm
It’s about time Tampa starts drafting *best available* and build a real squad. Give Hardy El Dragon Nickerson the DC. Call it a day.
January 14th, 2016 at 8:48 pm
1987… I remember you commenting that one of your children is a special needs child… You have to stay at home to take care of? You are making short bus comments?
January 14th, 2016 at 8:51 pm
@The Kevin,
You, my fellow Buc friend, are an as s hole, but you know what? You’re our as s hole. All of the insults back and forth are hilarious.
Thank you for being you, you as s hole!
January 14th, 2016 at 8:51 pm
The question is what did Mike Smith do as a DC for the Jags.
Anyone got those stats?
Quickly The Donald Trump show’s coming on….
January 14th, 2016 at 8:53 pm
NC Floridiot…yep I do have 2 children that are special needs and The Kevin reminds me of my autistic daughter….only she has more brains.
January 14th, 2016 at 8:56 pm
I am one to always admit mistakes, unlike many on here which is frustrating.
Anyway, I will say I thought Lovie deserved one more year because I think stability is a MASSIVE issue with the glaziers. Look at the great organizations, they are consistent with HCs and stable. Players develop on a system and it becomes complete second nature. Makes average guys better because they end up a step ahead just from knowing their job so well.
So I flipped out the night Lovie was fired. One more year was deserved.
Sonce then, joe, and Chicago fan friend of mine, and a couple other talking heads on tv have shed light on some things, basically issues with Lovie. I’m not one who thinks the defense couldn’t work, I think it can, it just needs a better pass rush. The problem is the discipline and lack of accountability.
I am extremely happy with the Dirk hiring, should keep JW on track.
The DC needs to be aggressive and demanding though. The opposite personality of Dirk.
Get the right DC and a pass rush and I still think they can win 10.
Can’t wait until FA and draft!!
January 14th, 2016 at 8:58 pm
I think to many Buc fans just hate Mike smith because he was with the Falcons….but that is a good thing…he knows the NFC South better than anyone…plus he has been a head coach…can take over many duties so Dirk can devote more time to Winston…”Smitty” had a decent defense in JAX ..the Falcons had a good D for a couple of years…not sure who the DC was under Smitty..Hiring Smith makes perfect sense.
January 14th, 2016 at 9:04 pm
http://www.pro-football-reference.com/coaches/SmitMi0.htm
January 14th, 2016 at 9:05 pm
Other DC to consider are Mel Tucker Bama CB coach 2015 current DC at UGA. I’d consider Cullen seriously too. Maybe Hardy N. but I really don’t know if he’s ready.
To be fair to Mike Smith look at his stats as DC in Jax 2003-7- they are pretty impressive.
January 14th, 2016 at 9:06 pm
Happy with the Koetter hire, as if I had a choice. Go Bucs!
January 14th, 2016 at 9:07 pm
Looks to me that Mike Smith did well with the Jags as their DC….
January 14th, 2016 at 9:09 pm
If Mike Smith did such a poor job as DC in Jax why did ATL offer him a HC job? 2 time HC of the year in ATL. when McKay was GM.
January 14th, 2016 at 9:12 pm
Welcome back DB55!
January 14th, 2016 at 9:14 pm
All depends on the staff. But I think he knows he just needs a DC to be what he was last year: On his own, doing his own thing. This is the safe hire again but I think this time it’s for the right reasons of being safe, to protect the top asset rather than to make the fans happy, which is what Lovie was.
January 14th, 2016 at 9:20 pm
To address the defense, keep Moore and banks, release expensive Verner and talentless Jude AB. Draft either Shaq lawson/Shilique Calhoun or VH3/M. Alexander. Add some free agent depth pieces and Jim Schwartz for DC so we can recreate his defense in buffalo.
January 14th, 2016 at 9:20 pm
If the “culture of losing” is so omnipresent, I think some fresh blood from winning organizations would do the team good. I think talk of promoting Cullen or Bahamian is maybe not constructive to that aspect. Then again what do I know.
January 14th, 2016 at 9:31 pm
Ty sir. Not sure if it will last but I’m a happy man right now
January 14th, 2016 at 9:32 pm
We need a DC who’s defended the NEW pass happy nfl. Not a relic from pre 2010.
January 14th, 2016 at 9:35 pm
Dirk Koetter presser scheduled for 2:00 AM tomorrow morning.
January 14th, 2016 at 9:37 pm
I really don’t like Mike Smith , but I guess his defenses WERE pretty good in Jax and Atl from 2005-2012 respectively. Thanks for the info, 87. I’d still rather have Schwartz, but I wouldn’t feel terrible about Smith, I guess.
January 14th, 2016 at 9:37 pm
Is that presser before or after the Democratic debate?
January 14th, 2016 at 9:38 pm
I think Licht has a lot of contacts and good intincts. Koetter has been an OC in this league for 8 years and most of them in the NFC South. He’s had to prepare his offenses for those 8 years and who better to know which DC’s are toughest to prepare for than a guy who has actually prepared for them!!!
Between Licht and Koetter I have confidence they know where the best DC’s are.
And I pluralize DC’s because there is not just ONE guy who could do this. There are a number. Of course there is a greater number of candidates who cannot.
As long as we avoid those who cannot we’re fine.
January 14th, 2016 at 9:52 pm
I would like to congratulate the Glazers On a job well done. Restored some of my faith in the Ownership. Gutsy move to fire Lovie on the timetable he had. I think they had the pulse of the Bucs fans. I am a happy Buc fan.
January 14th, 2016 at 9:57 pm
holy heck,
when the idiotic, bigoted, hate-filled, fools are on tv, it gets quiet around here. hmmmmmmmmmmmmm
only the smart people remain.
January 14th, 2016 at 9:59 pm
Well, good for the Bucs. And good for Jameis. I like this hire, but as always your reputation doesn’t matter. Wins do. Koetter knows that.
GO BUCS!!
January 14th, 2016 at 10:21 pm
Still no formal announcement by the Bucs. I swear they are the weirdest organization in professional sports. SMH
January 14th, 2016 at 10:53 pm
Dirk Koetter and Americas Quarterback jameis Winston!
God bless America!
January 14th, 2016 at 11:20 pm
Dirk Koetter “America’s Coach”
January 15th, 2016 at 12:03 am
Much better hire than Raheem, Schiano, and Lovie? Time will tell.
Good to see Kevin piped right down after I posted Smith’s resume.
Kill’em with facts and the deranged go away. Either that or mommy gave him his Ritalin.
January 15th, 2016 at 12:38 am
I wonder if the 9ers settling on there HC is what made the bucs and Koetter deal happen. I wonder if Koetter’s first choice was the 9ers gig. It was obvious the bucs wanted Koetter all along. So waiting so long to hire him must not have been their choice.
I’m thinking Koetter was the bucs first choice, but the bucs were Koetter’s second choice. Lol
January 15th, 2016 at 12:57 am
49ers are a worse mess than the bucs…sorry, but your guess is false.
January 15th, 2016 at 1:15 am
The New York Giants and San Fran 49ers new head coaches are not close to being as good as Dirk.
Tampa didn’t name Dirk right away because of hip surgery and staff building. It had nothing to do with Chip, 49ers, or Saban.
NADA.
It was Dirk from day 1.
DC is the only question.
January 15th, 2016 at 1:21 am
This is the smart choice. National media might not like it, but after the Lovie firing, I’m realizing just how little they know. I don’t see this as a true coaching shift. I see it as taking what worked, and booting what didn’t. I don’t see us missing a beat moving forward.
This is now an offensive league, we need an offensive coach.
January 15th, 2016 at 2:27 am
Thekevin clearly has a miniature penis and got a lot of wedgies and swirlies growing up. He needs to put everyone down with super witty insults like “go drive your Prius” and “what do you know? Are you some savant?”
Lol what a little insecure fool. Dying for attention and trying to make himself feel important. It’s comical. Dur dur dur mike smith dur dur dur you’re a fool dur dur dur.
Dude! Please keep commenting and making yourself look like a bigger idiot than realist in the height of lovie season. Keep it up needle Kevin.
It’s gonna be funny to read his insults towards me after this post.
Dur dur dur you don’t know what you’re talking about dur dur dur NC you’re an idiot dur dur dur Thekevin drives a Fj cruiser but all you other idiots drive a Prius dur dur dur
Do you google your insults or do you come up w them all by yourself?
Head ball coach dirk will lead us in the right direction And then He will write a book called “you don’t know dirk”…you should add your own super southern accent to his book title to make it more entertaining.
January 15th, 2016 at 3:19 am
I woke up this morning to discover Dirk was the man in tampa. Congrats to the new HC. Lovie must be sitting his basement thinking what in the world just hit him upside the head! And if murphy’s law kicks in Lovie could be on the outside looking in watching all the people he brought in having tremendous success in the coming years. Psychologically down the line it would be interesting to hear Dirk’s and Jason’s view on Lovie after it is all said and done.
Buccaneers fans who still harbour doubts about the long term viability of dirk and how lovie was treated need to put aside their angst and come out and support the new HC and look forward to a successful 2016.
One cannot argue with stats that says a rookie QB developing within a stable offence is more likely than not to succeed. Congrats Dirk!
January 15th, 2016 at 5:36 am
Having been a fan for many man years, (I rooted for KC in SB1, and I look forward to the replay of that game tonight on NFL Network.) I am pleased by the hire of DK. Like most of you, I expect the Bucs to be a better team. The arrow is most certainly pointing up. I will however be reserved in my anticipation of success. 10-6 would be great. We’ll see!
January 15th, 2016 at 5:44 am
hey.. don’t worry about Lovie. he gets 10 mil to sit in his basement and think @ the future.
January 15th, 2016 at 6:37 am
Why would Jim Schwartz make a lateral move?
January 15th, 2016 at 9:31 am
In 2015, Schwartz took a consulting position with the NFL’s officiating department to provide a coach’s perspective on officiating decisions, so J, it wouldn’t be a lateral move.
Mike Smith Defenses:
JAGS DEFENSE 2003 9th
JAGS DEFENSE 2004 12th
JAGS DEFENSE 2005 7th
JAGS DEFENSE 2006 3rd
JAGS DEFENSE 2007 15th
FALCONS DEFENSE 2008 25th
FALCONS DEFENSE 2009 22nd
FALCONS DEFENSE 2010 14th
FALCONS DEFENSE 2011 8th
FALCONS DEFENSE 2012 12th
FALCONS DEFENSE 2013 29th
FALCONS DEFENSE 2014 32nd
4 Top 10 Defenses in 12 years
Jim Schwartz Defenses
TITANS DEFENSE 2002 18th
TITANS DEFENSE 2003 11th
TITANS DEFENSE 2004 24th
TITANS DEFENSE 2005 30th
TITANS DEFENSE 2006 20th
TITANS DEFENSE 2007 1st
TITANS DEFENSE 2008 5th
LIONS DEFENSE 2009 32nd
LIONS DEFENSE 2010 22nd
LIONS DEFENSE 2011 9th
LIONS DEFENSE 2012 24th
LIONS DEFENSE 2013 14th
BILLS DEFENSE 2014 2nd
BILLS DEFENSE 2015 24th
4 Top 10 Defenses in 14 years
I think its important to consider when the new rules that limit defenses started also.
January 15th, 2016 at 9:34 am
Really, neither Mike Smith or Jim Schwartz are good enough if we want to consistently have a Top 10 defense…but I think Mike Smith edges out Schwartz.
Mike Smith had 7 Top 15 defenses in 12 years
Jim Schwartz had 6 Top 15 defenses in 14 years.
Schwartz went to the Bills in 2014…and they already had a top defense. By his second year, it went to crap and dropped to 24th under his guidance.
January 15th, 2016 at 9:35 am
Also…I think Mike Smith was a Cover 2 guy, but not sure is Schwartz was.
If we have to switch to 3-4, then it will take time to rebuild…and neither Koetter nor his DC will be given that time in Tampa.
January 15th, 2016 at 11:07 am
Great hire! WTG Glazers.
January 15th, 2016 at 12:54 pm
BucInNC you realize how immature and petulant you sound right now?
January 15th, 2016 at 3:22 pm
The advocates of this hire are the same trolls that celebrated when Lovie was hired. Will you be ready to toss Capt. Dirk overboard if he doesn’t lead you to the promised land next season? If the Glazers don’t change their management style we will be here again in 2 seasons.
January 15th, 2016 at 7:50 pm
Bonsai it was a joke