Schottenheimer's Shortcomings

Marty Schottenheimer, a career .602 winning percentage and 2004 Coach of the Year. He turned a San Diego team from 4-12 just a year ago to 12-4 this year and an AFC West division title. But when it comes to showtime and the playoffs Schottenheimer is a dismal 5-12 following last night's loss. It was a sloppy game on both sides and would have been over in regulation had the Jets' Eric Barton not made a boneheaded play roughing Drew Brees on fourth and goal. But thats why you play the game and the Chargers had a chance to win it with about 6 minutes to go in OT. But instead of trying to move the ball further down the field and play for the win, Schottenheimer played to not lose. San Diego ran the ball 3 times for a total of maybe 5 or 6 yards, making no effort to get a first down. Schottenheimer was fine with settling for a 40 yard field goal from his rookie kicker Nate Kaeding. First off, a 40 yarder is by no means a chip shot, and add in the pressure of the playoffs, and on top of it all, a rookie kicker? And even worse, he purposely set up those plays so Kaeding would kick from the right hash mark. Thats the worst possible spot for a right-footed kicker to kick from. He can overcompensate and hook it left or in an attempt to not overcompensate, push it right which is what Kaeding did. If he's kicking from the middle of the field, that kick is right down the middle and the Chargers are in the second round and still a sleeper pick to win it all. Playing conservatively in any sport - unless you're Denver right now and you run the ball the rest of the game against Indy so Jake Plummer won't throw any more interceptions - especially in the playoffs (Andy Reid NFC Championship games ring a bell?) doesn't work. Try again next year Marty.