Kelly: Davis Will Still Be My Defensive Coordinator
Billy Davis and Chip Kelly. (Jeff Fusco)
DETROIT, MI — Chip Kelly quickly dismissed the notion that’d he fire Billy Davis after the Eagles’ 45-14 loss to the Lions. In his post-game press conference, the head coach was asked if Davis would still be his defensive coordinator.
“Yes,” Kelly said, offering no other words on the topic.
Kelly, who explained that he’s “committed” to seeing this season through, added that he thought his players gave full effort. He was also asked if he believes he still has the support of the guys in the locker room.
“I don’t think they’re trying to prove a point or anything like that,” Kelly said. “I just think we got out-coached today and didn’t do a very good job.”
After carrying the team in the early portion of the season, the Eagles’ defense was again decimated; they gave up 45 points in two consecutive games for the first time in franchise history.
Kelly added that this was the most disappointing defeat of his career.
“It’s right at the top,” he said. “We didn’t coach well today. We didn’t really do anything well today, so it’s very disappointing. It’s not what you want, not the outcome anybody is looking for.”
Kelly said he’s confident in his players because he has “some really good guys,” but the offense also struggled. The Eagles totaled just 227 yards and turned the ball over once. They rushed for only 68 yards, averaging 2.7 yards per carry.
Mark Sanchez started for the second time this season because Sam Bradford wasn’t cleared to be a “full-go.” According to Kelly, Bradford has cleared concussion protocol, but the quarterback’s left shoulder is holding him back.
The Eagles are now 4-7, guarenteeing they’ll finish with the worst record of Kelly’s three-year tenure. However, the head coach said he doesn’t look at this season as being a step back for the team.
“No, I don’t look at — I said before, 10 wins wasn’t enough,” Kelly said. “If you don’t finish as the number one team in the league, then it’s a step back and that’s what our mentality is and that’s what my mentality has always been. But I was never happy when we were 10-6.
“I’m not saying we’re doing a better job, I can tell you that. We’re not. But I don’t look at 10 wins as a good job either. I’ve never looked at it like that.”