The San Diego Chargers' new coach is...

The San Diego Chargers should hire Lovie Smith as their next coach.  I believe he is the best man for the job.  The Chargers are the second best team in their division, and, if built correctly, in three years could be the best team in their division (assuming Manning starts to slow down or retires). 

Now, I know Lovie is not a sexy name around the league (but he is a lovely name...get it?), but that is only due to a perceived mediocrity.  However, let’s take a deeper look at his nine years as the Bears coach:

• ·         Lovie was 81-63 during his nine years.
• ·         He went to the Super Bowl and won 13 games with Rex Grossman as his QB.  Yes, that Rex Grossman.
• ·         Had six non-losing seasons in nine years with three playoffs appearances.
• ·         In his last three years, the Bears were 29-19. 

Most importantly, the SD roster fits what Lovie does.  The Chargers have a good, young defense that can rush the passer.  One guy is Corey Liuget, the 22 year old Defensive End, who had 7 sacks this year.  He’s a 3-4 DE, so in the Cover 2 with Lovie, he would move inside as a speed rusher.  He’s 6-2, 300 pounds, with a 4.99 40.  A move inside could see him become even more destructive.   They also have guys like Eric Weddle (101 tackles, 3 Interceptions, 2 forced fumbles) and Antoine Cason (73 – 2 – 2).  Football outsiders ranked the Chargers as the #6 rush defense proving that this team could give a real good base to Lovie on which to build on. 

Lovie’s downfall in Chicago was quite simply the offense.  But, look at that record in his final three years.  Those last three years are when the Bears really started to use Cutler, Forte, etc.  San Diego already has a similar offense to what Chicago had this year.  The problem with the Chargers was a poor offensive line and too many turnovers.  If they can get the right personnel in their on offense, this team immediately gets into the wild card mix. 

And San Diego fans, that is what you want.