Can Coughlin soften up?

by Ed Valentine on Jun 11, 2007 11:30 AM EDT in News Comment 4 comments

Tom Coughlin

Tom Coughlin's affinity for rules, and his rigid no-nonsense personality are legendary in NFL circles.

Coughlin has spent his career projecting a gruff exterior and not letting players and media members get to know him.

At the urging of family members and some in the Giants organization, though, Coughlin is trying to lighten up.

In a wonderful piece Sunday, the Star-Ledger looks at how Coughlin became the way he is, how he is trying to open up and just how difficult that transition is.

Here's a snippet from Coughlin.

"I'm like I am because that's the way I was raised," Coughlin says. "But that's the way I want it. I like it that way. I like it orderly. I like a procedure. I like a format to everything.

"I could make pretty good decisions, but I did the stuff that all kids did, drink beer and stuff like that. But when I screwed up, it bothered me. I would tell myself, 'Do it right, do it right.' If it's not completely right, it bothers me. That's a problem. I want it perfect, but nothing's perfect."

It's a must read for Giants fans. FYI, it is lengthy and will require registration. It's worth the time, though.

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That is a great article

I hope Tommy boy comes through because I've always felt he got a bad rap. It definitely can't hurt him to have a better relationship with the media, but his job is going to depend greatly on how Eli does.

by potroast on Jun 11, 2007 5:47 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Coughlin

It comes down to this, in my opinion. A 3rd straight playoff appearance and there is no way they can get rid of him. No playoffs, all bets are off.

by Ed Valentine on Jun 11, 2007 6:58 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs

t.c.

The man has talent. He did a brilliant job in Jacksonville until everything fell apart. He got the last good football out of a of vets most thought were through. When they had nothing left, things went downhill. I don't think he can change much. If significant change in him is necessary to correct what good coaching should be able to correct, it ain't going to happen.

by george cronin on Jun 12, 2007 3:10 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs

I think he's a good coach

I also think they aren't looking for significant change. I just think there are times they'd like to see him loosen up a bit and be a little more approachable.

by Ed Valentine on Jun 12, 2007 4:45 PM EDT up reply actions 0 recs