Cincinnati Bengals offensive coordinator Brian Callahan takes questions from the press during the annual media luncheon, Tuesday, July 23, 2019, at Paul Brown Stadium in Cincinnati. Cincinnati Bengals Media Luncheon July 23
Regarding Brian Callahan, the new coach of the Tennessee Titans, the only criticism I have seen or heard is that during his five years as the offensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals, he never called plays. In Cincinnati, the responsibilities are managed by Bengals head coach Zac Taylor. Even while it’s unclear for sure, it’s safe to presume that Callahan will call the plays in this instance. Does the fact he’s never done it before matter?
Taylor wants you to think that it isn’t really that important. Take a look at this passage from Paul Dehner, Jr. of The Athletic regarding the Titans’ decision to sign Callahan:
Taylor remarked, “Those are just people who don’t really know.” Does he have to make plays? Why? No one can truly claim that; it’s just a platitude. Here he has served as the coordinator for five years. He organizes all of the related activities. He lays out our offense’s entire framework. He and I are in frequent contact on game day. Calling plays is what that is. That constitutes committing a crime. He is aware of all the everyday struggles I face in my role as head coach. Both of us, that is. He’s ready for it as well as anyone could be.
We’re not sure how skilled Callahan will be at calling plays at this point because there is no substitute for calling the plays themselves. We do know that he has collaborated closely with some extremely talented quarterbacks, and his old boss is immensely appreciative of his contributions. That suffices for me!
My feelings on the Callahan hire are discussed in greater detail on the most recent episode of Home Run Throwback.
