This is exactly what I've always said about Caldwell. He's a poor man's Andy Reid.This segment from Kyle Meinke is pretty spot on:
http://videos.mlive.com/mlive/2015/12/watch_detroit_lions_reporters_61.html#incart_river_index(6:33 mark)
The good news takeaway from Fail Mary is I think that's the nail in the coffin. It wipes out all the good will of winning three straight, and negates anything that happens over the last 25% of the season.
- Caldwell is an outstanding organizer
- Great leader of individuals throughout the week
- Able to construct/help construct an effective game plan
- When the bullets start flying, radip decision making with time management, quick decision play calls, adjustments - he flounders, and that's his biggest weakness
- In 29 games as HC of the Lions, his strategic blunders in game have cost them 4-5 games
What I've never understood is why a coach like that can't just recognize his limitations and bring in an assistant who specializes in game management. Essentially a CEO/COO type of relationship. Play to your strengths and delegate your weaknesses.
I can only assume it's because of the traditional football culture that venerates HCs as gods among mortals. Why should they voluntarily give up power like that? It would emasculate them.
One day a coach will figure it out, win a couple Super Bowls, and then maybe other teams will start to copy the model. But by that point Jim Caldwell's NFL career will be long over.