Black Monday Strikes

Added on Jan 02, 2012 by Scott in

NFL

The day after the NFL regular season ends is never fun for the head coaches of teams that failed to qualify for the playoffs. Hence the not-so cheerful moniker ‘Black Monday.’ The axe has already fallen on a pair of coaches and more will likely follow before the sun sets. The Rams parted ways with Steve Spagnuolo and the Bucs sent Raheem Morris packing as well.

In a what have you done for me lately league, Spagnuolo and Morris find themselves unemployed because they were unable to build off successful 2010 seasons. The Rams narrowly missed winning the NFC West division title a year ago, while the Bucs narrowly missed securing a Wild Card spot after finishing 10-6.

Entering 2011, expectations were high for both teams. The Rams boasted a rising star at quarterback in Sam Bradford and the luxury of playing in an up for grabs division. The Bucs were equally confident with Josh Freeman under center and a young, aggressive defense ready to pounce.

However, the lockout shortened offseason didn’t do either team any favors and whatever chemistry developed in 2010 quickly eroded. Despite a glut of cap space, neither St. Louis or Tampa made much of a splash in free agency, electing to stand pat with what worked in 2010. It would prove to be a fatal error.

In three seasons, Spagnuolo compiled a 10-38 record. An inexperienced roster and a rash of injuries certainly played a role in his dismissal, but the inability to develop talent and jump-start a woeful offense is what ultimately cost him his job. Losers of their last seven games, the Rams scored 20 or more points only three times all season.

Raheem Morris went 17-31 in his three seasons. His youthful energy helped motivate a rookie laden team in 2010 and resulted in a surprising 10 wins. With increased pressure in 2011, his methods fell on deaf ears. Losers of their last ten, the Bucs allowed 30-plus points in eight of 16 games.

Source: NFL.com