Would Tom Cable Be a Good Head Coach?

The question of whether Tom Cable would make a good head coach is one that has garnered significant attention, especially given his impressive record with the Oakland Raiders and his ability to form strong relationships with players. However, it's important to cut through the public perception and examine the facts in order to make an informed judgment.

Tom Cable's Record with the Raiders

Tom Cable's tenure with the Oakland Raiders stands out due to his 8-8 record in the 2008 season. This record marked a significant improvement over the previous year, during which the Raiders finished with a 2-14 record. His record is a testament to his ability to turn around a struggling team and instill a winning mentality not just in his offensive line, but in the entire team.

In addition to his on-field successes, Cable also built a positive rapport with his players. This personal connection is crucial for a coach, as it fosters a collaborative and supportive environment necessary for team success. However, his tenure with the Raiders was cut short when he made a statement about the team no longer being a losing team. This assertion angered Al Davis, who was fiercely obsessed with winning another Super Bowl before his death. The resulting tension led to Cable's firing.

Tom Cable's Impact as an Offensive Line Coach

The notion that Tom Cable was an abject failure as an offensive line coach is often perpetuated through public perception rather than substantive evidence. It's crucial to look at the data and facts to form a more accurate assessment. One such fact to consider is his success in converting defensive players into offensive line players.

During his time at the Seattle Seahawks, the team invested minimally in their offensive line. They drafted a number of offensive linemen, but only two were high draft picks. Many of the linemen were veterans who had been re-worked for the role, highlighting the flexibility and transformative nature of Cable's coaching.

JR Sweezy's Conversion and Pro Bowl Performance

One of the most prominent examples of Cable's coaching prowess is JR Sweezy, a former defensive lineman who was converted into a starting guard. Sweezy started for a portion of his rookie year, which is remarkable given the typically rigid requirements of offensive line positions. Sweezy's performance was so notable that he was a Pro Bowl alternate the following year. This speaks volumes about Cable's ability to teach and develop players, even those moving from a different position.

Evaluating Cable's Success

While Cable's successes are undeniable, the improvement of the offensive line for the Seahawks cannot be solely attributed to his coaching. Russell Wilson was sacked 51 times during the 2009 season, despite attempting far fewer passes than in the previous year. This suggests that while Cable's efforts did contribute to the team's performance, there were other factors at play as well.

The improvement can be characterized as a mixed bag, with some positive outcomes and areas for further refinement. Cable's ability to transition players and his positive relationship with his players are significant positives. However, the overall improvement of the offensive line and the team as a whole should also be considered in context of the entire coaching staff and the team's strategy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while Tom Cable may not have been the only factor in the improvement of the offensive line for the Seahawks, his coaching skills and ability to transform players are undoubtedly commendable. His relationship with the players and his ability to turn around a struggling team make him a reasonable choice for a head coaching position. However, more context is needed to fully evaluate his potential as a head coach, especially considering the multifaceted nature of team success.