TheWarpath.net Interviews Matt Bowen (part 1)

[SmootSmack]

Here is Part 1 of our interview with former Redskin Matt Bowen. In this segment, Matt shares his thoughts on the current Redskins front office and coaching situation. Part 2 he'll talk about the players and about his own playing days

Front Office

1. Can you share your thoughts on the current set-up in Washington? Snyder had said after Gibbs retired that Cerrato would have full control over the football operations. But is that really happening, or is he simply a "yes man" for Snyder?

I believe that there is an issue with the chain of command in Washington. There needs to be a GM in place, someone that can be the buffer between the head coach and the owner. That way, both sides have their own opinions, but ultimately, it comes down to the GM who makes that call after weighing the options. But, you still need input from both sides. Bottom line, NFL teams need a clear cut GM.

2. What would it take for Snyder to make significant changes to the way things are run at Redskins Park. Should we accept that he will always be involved (to a varying extent) or is there hope that he may hire a reputable GM and step out of the way?

For Dan to make changes, he has to put this plan into place and take a step back from the personnel moves. Obviously, he is always going to have some say, because no matter what opinions we spin, this is still his team and he signs the checks. But, even in saying that, this origination would be better off if Dan relinquished some of the power in the personnel department.

3. Some fans' complaint is that Snyder is not accountable for his actions. There is a sentiment that it would be more tolerable if he was more transparent his involvement, the way Jerry Jones is. Has Snyder done more damage by not being accessible to the media?
The fans have every right to want more from Dan, but that doesn't include media aspect into every decision that happens at Redskins park? Tough to call...


4. If you were in charge of the Redskins, what would be your course of action and would you make changes in the middle of the season, or set forth a plan to start after the season is over?
Making changes in the middle of the season never works out. They have a plan in place, and unfortunately, they need to stick to that plan. Turning the front office, the coaching staff, or the locker room upside down in November never works in this league.

Jim Zorn

1. If you're pulling the strings, who would you replace Zorn with?

Zorn should not be replaced this season. No coach is going to come in now, as a new coach will hire a new staff and want to change personnel to fit his schemes. The best course of action is to ride out the season, see how this team plays down the stretch, and then take action.

2. Would you even replace Zorn?

The Skins have basically given Zorn his walking papers by taking away his play calling duties. He looked defeated on the sidelines last night, and I can't see how he will come back, or why he would want to come back

3. Considering Coach Zorn has never had any experience as a HC in the NFL, do you think he would have been better served to have surrounded himself with assistants with more NFL experience in their current capacity? Should Zorn relinquish some of his responsibilities, such as play calling?

I think it is hard to judge Zorn's capabilities as a head coach in this franchise, just as it was hard to judge Steve Spurrier or even Joe Gibbs the second time around. Until the coach and the front office can agree on personnel moves, it doesn't matter who is on the sidelines.

4. Who in your mind is the best defensive coordinator today?

I am biased, but I also believe that Gregg Williams is the best defensive coordinator in football. No question.

5. Who are some assistants around the league you think would best make coordinators (offense and defense) or even head coach?

I think the Skins current safeties coach, Steve Jackson, will be a great coordinator in this league. He is knowledgeable, has worked under Williams, is an ex-player, and has a passion for this game and this league.

5. Is there a point in the season when you think we should sit some of our starters and put some of our younger players in to get experience in a regular season game?
There is always a point when you put up the white flag and try some different players out, but we don't see that often, because winning games, even in a losing season, produces money for the organization. The NFL is the business of winning.

[SmootSmack]

No real shockers here. I thought it was interesting that he said the GM should be the tie-breaker because it has been the owner here since the days of Jack Kent Cooke, and maybe before

Steven Jackson is not a name I would have thought of as an up and coming defensive coordinator.

I think part 2 will be very interesting because it focuses on the players and that's his wheel house

[Gmanc711]

Thanks!!

[MTK]

Good stuff thanks for putting this together SS

[Lotus]

Interesting read. Thanks SS.

[The Goat]

What did he mean he also believes Williams is the best D coordinator in football? Was he agreeing w/ someone?

[Hog1]

Good info SS. thanx

[hooskins]

Good stuff thanks

[mooby]

Thanks for doing that SS. It's nice to know some ex-players without axes to grind kinda agree with some of us in the fanbase.

Can't wait to see part 2.

[tryfuhl]

Originally Posted by The Goat

What did he mean he also believes Williams is the best D coordinator in football? Was he agreeing w/ someone?

I think that he was saying that along with him being biased he'd still say that

[SmootSmack]

Originally Posted by tryfuhl

I think that he was saying that along with him being biased he'd still say that

Yeah that was basically it