Last Wednesday, Mike McDaniel found himself at the top of the list of coaches under pressure. The Miami Dolphins had suffered a setback in their first game against the Indianapolis Colts, followed by an overwhelming defeat to the New England Patriots. Many speculated that if they didn’t turn it around against the Buffalo Bills on Thursday night, a change might be imminent.
Interestingly, even after the expected loss, McDaniel actually dropped down a few spots on that list.
It seems things are looking worse for other coaches in similar situations.
Coaches in the Hot Seat
Brian Callahan, Tennessee Titans
Brian Callahan is right back in the hot seat as the Titans gear up for Week 4. Despite starting rookie quarterback Come Ward, the Titans suffered a rough defeat against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 2, and then were routed by the Colts in Week 3.
Callahan has taken on additional play-calling responsibilities from QB coach Beau Hardglee, which is certainly a high-pressure move.
Brian Daboll, New York Giants
The New York Giants are currently struggling, having lost to the Kansas City Chiefs and holding an 0-3 record. Brian Daboll is now playing one of his last cards by starting Jackson Dirt in Week 4, hoping for a spark against the undefeated Los Angeles Chargers.
It’s a tricky situation, especially as they face the New Orleans Saints in the next week, which could also be challenging for them.
Mike McDaniel, Miami Dolphins
In comparison, the Dolphins showed some improvement against the Bills in Week 3. Without a costly interception from Tua Tagovailoa, things might have looked even better. Still, Week 4 is crucial; they’ll host the winless New York Jets, and a loss there could lead to serious questions about McDaniel’s future.
Raheem Morris, Atlanta Falcons
As Week 4 rolled in, the Falcons were looking to improve to 2-1 after a strong win over the Minnesota Vikings, facing a winless Carolina Panthers. However, they ended up suffering a harsh 30-0 defeat. While one loss isn’t enough to seal Morris’s fate, it’s definitely a situation to keep an eye on.
Zach Taylor, Cincinnati Bengals
Zac Taylor has had quite a rollercoaster ride in recent weeks. Following a narrow win over the Cleveland Browns in Week 1, he faced challenges after a disaster against the Minnesota Vikings, where they lost 48-10. Even with a backup quarterback stepping in, this kind of defeat raises eyebrows and increases pressure.
Coaches Breathing Easier
Two coaches who felt the heat last week might be a bit more relaxed going into Week 4.
Dave Canales, Carolina Panthers
Once down 27-3 against the Arizona Cardinals, Canales seemed to be in trouble. However, the Panthers roared back, scoring 49 unanswered points across two games. They narrowly lost to the Cardinals but then convincingly defeated the Falcons 30-0, which certainly turned a few heads.
Kevin Stefanski, Cleveland Browns
Like Canales, Stefanski found himself in a tight spot after an 0-2 start. However, the Browns managed an upset against the Green Bay Packers, bringing them to a 1-2 record. While I’m not suggesting they’re playoff material just yet, this win does give Stefanski a bit more breathing room.
