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When coach Chip Kelly of the Philadelphia Eagles hired Bill Davis to be the team’s defensive coordinator, some people had their hesitations. Davis’ previous stints included some time with the Cleveland Browns, and most people remember the plays to be focused more on patience rather than assertive actions. After the news broke, many people questioned the opportunity, even arguing that Kelly and Davis were very technical in thinking though not in actual delegation.
Sports fans were not impressed with the hire but Davis did not let this negativity affect him, stating that he would create schemes around the actual players rather than ideas (which he was known to do). This change in planning has drastically improved the Eagles’ performance, and many of Davis’ critics are finding fewer things to complain about.
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In fact, the Eagles’ game against the Cardinals last October may be seen as Davis’ best defense as a coordinator. And even before that spectacular game, Davis has successfully coordinated unbelievable performances thus far. In September, Davis proudly, and without any arrogance, gave an interview saying he was happy with the rush pass after two straight games without a sack. He even went on to say that the players were doing their jobs and that their plays were backed by technical standards.
It would seem that Davis has found the balance between his love for technicalities and knowing and understanding the strengths and weaknesses of his players. Game after game, his strategies have been vindicated, particularly with the superior 27-0 game against the New York Giants last October.
Many sports fanatics are holding their breaths as to what lies in the future. Some people are still pegging this trend as a fluke, but more and more enthusiasts think that Davis is and will continue to hold his own as a defensive coordinator.
Image Source: phillymag.com
Paul Benn is a sports enthusiast and a big fan of the Philadelphia Eagles. Learn more about him by following this Facebook page.
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