Bruce Arians stepped in for head coach Chuck Pagano early this season after the shocking news of Pagano's leukemia struck Indianapolis. Beginning with the monumental upset over Green Bay, Arians led the Colts through an incredible winning season and headed to the playoffs. With a personal 9-3 record at head coach, Arians has been named AP Coach of the Year by the Associated Press.
After Peyton Manning was sidelined by injury in 2011, the Indianapolis Colts struggled to a 2-14 record. Following the disappointing season, CEO and owner, Jim Irsay, decided it was time to push his team into a new era, making major changes along the way. After letting go of Bill and Chris Polian, Irsay hired GM Ryan Grigson and Pagano. Shortly after, Arians was invited to join the Colts in their pursuit of excellence. He accepted his role as the Colts' offensive coordinator. Never did he imagine that he would be leading his team throughout the majority of the season.
With complete support from Irsay, Grigson and Pagano, Arians proved he was the man for the job. Arians built upon the foundation that Pagano had began to lay early in the season. Despite their many obstacles, the Colts found a way to learn, grow and, most importantly, win. Arians skills and expertise had a lot to do with that.
Following his impressive debut at head coach, Arians became a highly sought-after candidate in the league. After speaking to a number of teams, Arians was hired by the Arizona Cardinals as their head coach going forward.
The Colts' inspirational season also earned GM Ryan Grigson the title of Executive of the Year. Chuck Pagano placed second to Arians for AP Coach of the Year. 2012 will be, without a doubt, a season to go down in history for all those involved.
Comments