Yeah, I noticed that too. Hard not to see the implication.
I watched the game at the bar, so I didn't get to hear any of Cowher on the pregame. Did he say anything that made sense?
Cowher was not very flashy in his debut as an in studio commentator. He just kind of gave his slant on things. He is (so far) not nearly as animated as somebody like Mike Ditka. He took some good spirited ribbing from Dan and Boomer; Dan had a face shield labeled "spit shield," since he was sitting next to him.
When asked "Who will be the most successful new coach in 2007?" he first quantified the criteria. He said, if you based it solely on improvement of win total, he would pick Lane Kiffin, because he only has to improve on 2 wins from last season. If based on total wins, he would pick Norv Turner, because he inherited the most talent. So, I don't think that was too controversial.
He also said his sleeper pick of the year was the Vikings, because they have a great run defense, a strong running attack (good line play, and Chester Taylor and Adrian Peterson), and an athletic young QB in Tavarus Jackson, who, he said, reminds him of a young Kordell. He pointed out it reminded him of his late '90's Steelers team. He emphasized that he really likes Jackson.
I agree with him about Minnesota possibly being a surprise this year, but I don't think it has much to do with their QB. And god forbid he turns out like Kordell.
