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| Former Bengals defensive coordinator Chuck Bresnahan (left) has a new gig. He hasn't been with Cincinnati since 2007. Come to think of it, neither has Bryan Robinson. Who are these guys? |
In truth, when the list was released, I had to do a quick double-take. No, not because a former Bengals defensive coordinator couldn't find a job in the NFL -- much less a defensive coordinator position. It's because one Bengals former defensive coordinator couldn't even win a defensive coordinator job for the new United Football League.
The Orlando team, under head coach Jim Haslett, hired former Bengals defensive coordinator Chuck Bresnahan to be the team's linebackers coach for their inaugural season (and we wonder if their only season). Bresnahan was the Bengals' defensive coordinator from 2005-2007, taking over for Leslie Frazier who was fired after two unfulfilling seasons. In three seasons, Bresnahan's defense never ranked higher than 27th in yards allowed.
How would you compare he and new defensive coordinator, Mike Zimmer?
|
Season |
Points | First Downs | Yards | 3rd D. |
| 2005 | 350 | 321 | 5,419 | 81-190 |
| 2006 | 331 | 337 | 5,681 | 88-211 |
| 2007 | 385 | 313 | 5,580 | 86-201 |
| Total | 1,066 | 971 | 16,680 | 255-602 |
| 2008 | 364 | 296 | 5,208 | 93-218 |
Breaking them down to averages per game.
| Bresnahan | Zimmer | |
| Points | 22.2 | 22.7 (364) |
| Yards | 347.5 | 325.5 (5,208) |
| First Downs | 20.2 | 18.5 |
| Third Downs | 42% | 47% (93-218 |
The Bengals turnovers forced and quarterback sacks favored Bresnahan.
| Season | Coordinator | Interceptions | FF | FR | Sacks |
| 2005 | Bresnahan | 31 | 31 | 13 | 28 |
| 2006 | Bresnahan | 19 | 24 | 12 | 35 |
| 2007 | Bresnahan | 19 | 28 | 16 | 22 |
| 2008 | Zimmer | 12 | 20 | 12 | 17 |
* FF means Forced Fumbles and FR means Fumble Recovery and that thing they wear on their heads are called helmets.
In truth, the comparison holds little meaning. While Bresnahan was working with established veterans, Mike Zimmer was given a group of young rookies and second-year players. There's an argument to be made that our offense stunk so bad last year, that it's amazing the defense performed as well as they did. So then, you're wondering, why the comparison? No reason. Just playing with numbers. You know. Chill-axing.
Speaking of the UFL, player signings will take place in July. Peter Warrick anyone? Mid-way through the month, teams will announce their names and uniforms. Logos will be unveiled in mid-September and the season gets underway in October. After the four teams wrap up the six-week regular season, the Championship Game will take place during Thanksgiving weekend.
That's your UFL break for the year -- until Peter Warrick signs.
(h/t WDR)