Special teams coordinator Dave Toub has been with coach Lovie Smith since the start of the Smith era in 2004. If Smith is dismissed after this season, Toub and the assistants also could stand to lose jobs.
So obviously count Toub among those who would like to see Smith get at least a 10th season as Bears coach.
But the reasons for Toub supporting the man who hired him appear to be more than simple loyalty.
We are very lucky -- the Chicago Bears are very lucky -- to have Lovie Smith, and we better realize that, Toub said in comments clearly directed to more than the questioner. Everybody better realize that.
Detractors have criticized a lack of outer fire from Smith. Toub says that is missing the real picture.
Hes always going to be the same, Toub said. I think thats a great character trait to have as a head coach. He doesnt waver. If it is bothering him, hes not letting the players see it; hes not letting the coaches see it. Hes been steady.
He lets coaches coach. He lets me do my job. He has total trust in everything that I do. And as a coach, you cant ask for a better situation. Hes somebody that is going to let you callobviously, I dont call everything without going through himbut he lets me design our schemes and doesnt second-guess what we do. You cant get a better situation as a coach
NFL
Lovie is a great coach, and he needs to stay here.