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| Wednesday, January 10 Associated Press | |||
| ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. -- With Wade Phillips out as Buffalo
coach the question now becomes: Who's in?
If some of the Bills have any say, it will be defensive
coordinator Ted Cottrell.
"He's knows the system, he has all the tools, he has the
experience," Pro Bowl nose tackle Ted Washington said. "He's been
around this business a long time and I think he's ready to step up
and be a head coach. So, hopefully, it'll go to Ted Cottrell."
Phillips was fired Sunday night by Bills owner Ralph Wilson with
a year remaining on his contract. Phillips was 29-19 in three
seasons with Buffalo. However, the Bills finished 8-8 this season
and missed the playoffs. Wilson said Phillips' refusal to fire
special teams coach Ronnie Jones led to his dismissal.
Former Pittsburgh executive Tom Donahoe accepted the Bills offer to become the team's general manager on Wednesday.
General managers often bring in their own coaches. While
Cottrell doesn't have a relationship with Donahoe, former head
coaches who do include Dom Capers and Chan Gailey. Both worked with
Donahoe with the Steelers and both have been mentioned as strong
candidates for the Buffalo job.
Current University of Pittsburgh coach Walt Harris has also been
mentioned.
Still, Cottrell, who has spent three seasons as Bills defensive
coordinator and planned to interview with the expansion Houston
Texans, said he would appreciate some consideration.
"You would always like the opportunity, no question, but that's
up to Mr. Wilson," Cottrell said. "I'm not lobbying for the
Buffalo job."
Under Cottrell's guidance, Buffalo finished as the No. 1 defense
in the league in 1999, setting team records for fewest points,
touchdowns, total yards and first downs allowed in a season.
This season, the Bills finished third despite losing four
starters, including Bruce Smith, in the offseason, then five more
to injuries during the season.
In addition to his coaching ability, Cottrell's affable demeanor
toward both his players and the media is considered a strength.
"You couldn't get a better combination of a good coach,
motivator and one you respect," Buffalo defensive end Marcellus
Wiley said. "Ted can get on your case and make you play to another
level. Hopefully, that's what Mr. Wilson takes into account when
looking for a new head coach. There are lots of names floating out
there, but who cares? I think we've got one of the best candidates
right here at home." | ALSO SEE
Donahoe accepts Bills' offer to become president, GMPhillips looks home to Texans after Buffalo firing Bills fire Phillips because he wouldn't ax assistant | ||
ESPN's Chris Mortensen reports with further developments regarding Buffalo's GM vacancy.