Professional Football Researchers Association Forum

Following a great run as the Panthers' DC, helping them to SBL, he leads Buffalo to their first playoff berth in 18 years. Two years later he returns them to the playoffs, the team already having a different identity - '17 & '19 seeming more 'distant' from each other than the '96 Bills were to '98. Five-straight playoff berths, and counting. And, of course, they're looking to extend things with their current 3-0 start.

What are all your takes on him so far as a HC? What past HCs would you place him alongside? I thought of Chuck Knox, but got to place Knox quite above. Sean only has made it to one CCG whereas Chuck appeared in three - his Seahawk feat in '84 quite a notable over-achievement. Vikings were Knox's main obstacle while he was with the Rams, Mahomes obviously Sean's.

I think McDermott has done a very good job in Buffalo. The window still seems open with me and the jury's still out on them finally punching in a Lombardi or, at least, a SB berth. But another piece of artillery in favor of Knox is he never having quite a Josh Allen at QB. Yes, he's a bit beneath Knox. I'm sure a past HC will come to mind or one of you bringing one up instead.

Thoughts?

EDIT - of course I meant '83, not '84.

To be honest, he could lose his job if the team doesnt make the AFC Championship game but we will see. Despite talent on the roster, injuries have hurt them more than anything. Yes, its tough to figure out who could replace him, but Allen isnt getting any younger and they need to meet expectations of at least an AFC Championship.

Brian wolf wrote: ↑Sat Sep 28, 2024 1:51 pm To be honest, he could lose his job if the team doesnt make the AFC Championship game but we will see. Despite talent on the roster, injuries have hurt them more than anything. Yes, its tough to figure out who could replace him, but Allen isnt getting any younger and they need to meet expectations of at least an AFC Championship.

In my opinion, hot-seat talk should not take place at least for now. Another pre-CC playoff exit this season, and maybe it can be opened up, but as you say...who do you replace him with? Thus, I feel if they make the playoffs this year, then give him the entire '25 campaign and go from there.

As for what past HC to liken him to? I see John Robinson also leading his team to the playoffs six of his first seven seasons. John had a playoff record of 4-6 as Sean is 5-6. But Robinson has that extra CCG-appearance, and he never had a Josh Allen either. I guess I'd, so far, place Sean somewhere between (beneath) Robinson and (above) Dennis Green. "So far" the key words in that his story still has yet to be written.

That seat got a little warm with what happened in Houston. Choosing not to run three times in a row showed quite a bit of stubbornness. I understand the idea, but it seemed to me like he wanted to make a statement by making such a bold move (very much like Campbell in the NFC Championship Game last year). I know he's been very successful, but fans are going to grow restless if the Bills come up short of the Super Bowl once again. They deserve a championship.

No shot he loses his job. Never seen a coach fired for going 11-6 before, which is about where the Bills are every year.

JameisBrownston wrote: ↑Thu Oct 10, 2024 8:04 pm No shot he loses his job. Never seen a coach fired for going 11-6 before, which is about where the Bills are every year.

Marty Schottenheimer would like a word.

But it's rare but when good teams don't gett Super Bowl, when they cannot get over the hump, the can be on hot seat
maybe personality conflicts, frustration with not getting to the big one, power.

It could happen with McD

JameisBrownston wrote: ↑Thu Oct 10, 2024 8:04 pm No shot he loses his job. Never seen a coach fired for going 11-6 before, which is about where the Bills are every year.

Bum Phillips got fired from Houston after a 10-6, 11-5, 11-5 run. And everyone loved him, too.

Like the Adams family, now led by Stunk, or Skunk, whatever, the Peghoulas are capable of anything ... Pegulas, my bad. Thinking of Halloween.

Bryan wrote: ↑Fri Oct 11, 2024 8:49 am

JameisBrownston wrote: ↑Thu Oct 10, 2024 8:04 pm No shot he loses his job. Never seen a coach fired for going 11-6 before, which is about where the Bills are every year.

Bum Phillips got fired from Houston after a 10-6, 11-5, 11-5 run. And everyone loved him, too.

Was there something going on between him and the owner, like Jerry and Jimmy? That would be the other example that comes to mind.

Not for certain but I actually feel Bud Adams was jealous or threatened by Bum's popularity? Adams thought he could be arrogant as well and like Jones, there was only room for one ego at the top. It didnt make sense though. Bum not only won 10 games in 1975 but had a winning record in 1977 as well before Campbell joined the team. All this winning with an average QB in Pastorini but maybe Adams didnt like seeing him go to the Raiders?