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Despite speculation that there would be a major overhaul of the Chargers front office and coaching staff, the team announced on Tuesday that both GM A.J. Smith and head coach Norv Turner would remain for the 2012 season.
"Bottom line, I believe these two men give us the best chance to get back to the playoffs," team chairman Dean Spanos said in a team-issued statement. "A.J. Smith is the best man to improve our roster, and Norv Turner is the best man to lead that roster on the field."
The Chargers have missed the playoffs each of the past two seasons. In 2011, the team started 4-1, but a six-game losing streak in the middle of the year cost them dearly. Even by winning four of their last five games, they were unable to pass the Broncos in the AFC West standings.
"We all have our quirks and faults, but I want A.J. and Norv on my side. They are the right men to help us win a championship," Spanos said.
The way we see it
It took Spanos a day following the season finale to decide what direction he wanted the team to head in, but eventually he decided staying with Smith and Turner were the way to go. Injuries derailed the team in both 2010 and '11, so an emphasis on building depth through the draft and free agency will be a key this season for the returning GM and head coach.
The Chargers also must decide what to do about Turner's coaching staff, especially defensive coordinator Greg Manusky. The loss of Ron Rivera was a huge one, and Manusky did not get the most out of his players, according to sources. It would not be a surprise to see a change of personnel in that role.
http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slu...p_turner_smith
"Bottom line, I believe these two men give us the best chance to get back to the playoffs," team chairman Dean Spanos said in a team-issued statement. "A.J. Smith is the best man to improve our roster, and Norv Turner is the best man to lead that roster on the field."
The Chargers have missed the playoffs each of the past two seasons. In 2011, the team started 4-1, but a six-game losing streak in the middle of the year cost them dearly. Even by winning four of their last five games, they were unable to pass the Broncos in the AFC West standings.
"We all have our quirks and faults, but I want A.J. and Norv on my side. They are the right men to help us win a championship," Spanos said.
The way we see it
It took Spanos a day following the season finale to decide what direction he wanted the team to head in, but eventually he decided staying with Smith and Turner were the way to go. Injuries derailed the team in both 2010 and '11, so an emphasis on building depth through the draft and free agency will be a key this season for the returning GM and head coach.
The Chargers also must decide what to do about Turner's coaching staff, especially defensive coordinator Greg Manusky. The loss of Ron Rivera was a huge one, and Manusky did not get the most out of his players, according to sources. It would not be a surprise to see a change of personnel in that role.
http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/news?slu...p_turner_smith
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