In the unpredictable realm of professional football, the fate of head coaches hangs by the thread of performance, and Dennis Allen, the guiding force behind the Saints, finds himself under scrutiny after a recent setback
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Dennis Allen: The Maestro of the New Orleans Saints
Dennis Allen, a seasoned football strategist, commands the helm as the head coach of the New Orleans Saints in the National Football League (NFL) since the pivotal year of 2022.1
This marks a significant chapter in his illustrious career, which has seen him traverse various roles within the Saints’ ranks.
From Defensive Coordinator to Head Honcho
Allen’s ascent within the Saints organization began in 2015, stepping into the role of interim defensive coordinator and senior defensive assistant coach.
Subsequently, he assumed the position of the team’s defensive coordinator, a role he held for six impactful seasons. This solidified his reputation as a defensive mastermind before his elevation to the coveted position of head coach.
The Raiders Saga: Trials and Triumphs
Before his tenure with the Saints, Allen faced the challenges of being the head coach for the Oakland Raiders. Over three seasons, he navigated the team through highs and lows, culminating in an overall record of 11-37-0.
His departure from the Raiders in 2014 marked a turning point, but it set the stage for his triumphant return to the coaching arena.
Saints Resurgence: Allen’s Second Stint
Returning to the New Orleans Saints as the head coach in 2022, Allen orchestrated a commendable season, guiding the team to a 12-16-0 record over two years.
This tenure showcased his resilience and adaptability, proving instrumental in steering the Saints through the intricacies of NFL competition.
Career Awards: Shaping Defensive Stars
Allen’s impact extends beyond team achievements, with notable individual accolades. During his stint as the defensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos, he mentored Von Miller, who earned the prestigious AP Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2011.
The trend continued with the New Orleans Saints, as Allen coached Marshon Lattimore to the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year title in 2017.
Dennis Allen’s Coaching Tree
Before assuming the mantle of a head coach, Allen honed his skills as an assistant coach under the guidance of football luminaries such as Dan Reeves, Jim L. Mora (Jr.), Sean Payton, and John Fox.
Notably, twelve formative years were spent contributing to Payton’s coaching staff, showcasing the strong foundation upon which Allen built his coaching prowess.
Dennis Allen’s Ambiguous Coaching Stint
Dennis Allen finds himself at a pivotal juncture, grappling with uncertainties as he endeavors to harness the team’s potential during his two-season tenure.2
The Current Standings: A Tight NFC South Battle
The Saints, currently standing at 5-6, share the division lead in the NFC South with the Atlanta Falcons.
Playoff Prospects: A Glimpse into the Future
The path to the playoffs beckons the Saints, presenting a crucial opportunity for Allen. Successfully overcoming upcoming challenges might solidify his position for the 2024 season.
Deceptive Success: The NFC South Dilemma
However, the seemingly clear road to the playoffs in the NFC South, often considered the weakest division in football, could create a deceptive illusion of success.
The Pitfalls of Merely Reaching the Playoffs
Merely reaching the playoffs might not act as a safeguard for Allen’s job security, especially if the Saints advance only to face a humiliating defeat against a formidable contender.
High Stakes: Allen’s Fate Rests on Crucial Games
The stakes are high, and Allen’s future with the team hinges on the performance in the critical games that lie ahead.
Job Security in Question: Will Dennis Allen Be Let Go?
The historical reluctance of the Saints to change coaching midseason, dating back to 1980, raises questions about Dennis Allen’s future.3
Unprecedented Stability: Saints’ Coaching History
Since Hank Stram in 1978, each head coach has been granted at least three seasons. The Saints have only parted ways with one head coach, Jim Haslett, in the past 43 years, back in 2005.
The Recent Setback: Impact of the Loss to the Falcons
The 24-15 loss to the Falcons has sparked intensified discussions about Allen’s leadership and the team’s path back to contention.
Skepticism and Support: Mixed Signals for Dennis Allen
Delving into the matter, NOLA.com columnist Jeff Duncan voiced skepticism, highlighting recurring issues and the lack of confidence in their resolution.
Mickey Loomis Stands by Allen
Contrastingly, general manager Mickey Loomis expressed support for Allen and his staff during a recent interview on November 29. The fluid situation suggests that the team’s decision-making process will unfold as the season progresses.
How Hot is Dennis Allen’s Seat After the Falcons Loss?
After a disheartening loss in Atlanta, leaving the Saints with a 5-6 record, fans are questioning the security of Dennis Allen’s coaching position. Much like a car seat warmer on a cold day, is Allen just now realizing the heat beneath him?4
Challenging Times for the Saints
The recent 24-15 loss to the Falcons has intensified concerns about Allen’s leadership. The Saints, initially brimming with expectations due to a veteran roster, have struggled to gain momentum against what’s considered one of the NFL’s weakest schedules.
NOLA.com columnist Jeff Duncan delved into the issue on the latest Saints Insider podcast, expressing the frustration of fans who witness recurring problems without visible solutions. The lack of confidence in overcoming these issues has left supporters disheartened.
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Historical Context: Why Firing Allen Midseason Is Unlikely
Now a word from Head Coach Dennis Allen: pic.twitter.com/2Z3ojVgxWh
— ????Swiss™???? (@MidwestManmyth) December 3, 2023
Despite the mounting dissatisfaction, the Saints’ historical reluctance to make midseason coaching changes, especially at the head coach position, adds complexity to the decision. The franchise has not dismissed a head coach midseason since 1980, maintaining a trend where every head coach has served at least three seasons since 1978.
Mickey Loomis Stands Firm
Saints general manager Mickey Loomis, in his weekly interview with WWL, affirmed his full support for Allen and his coaching staff. This unwavering support, while frustrating to some fans seeking change, aligns with the organization’s historical approach.
NOLA.com columnist Rod Walker anticipates the retention of Allen, with a caveat that a poor finish in the final six games could alter this trajectory. The upcoming three-game homestand, starting against the Detroit Lions, becomes a pivotal moment to gauge fan reactions.
The Carmichael Conundrum
Fans’ discontent extends to offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael. If Allen remains, there’s speculation that Carmichael might face the axe. The recurring problems over two seasons, coupled with fans pointing fingers at Allen, raise valid concerns about the head coach’s job security.
In the words of Saints beat writer Matthew Paras, the possibility of drastic changes, whether in Allen’s position or the coaching staff, looms large if the team’s performance deteriorates further.
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Saints Head Coach Dennis Allen: Fan Outcry Grows Louder
Saints enthusiasts may not have officially placed head coach Dennis Allen on the hot seat, but the resounding clamor from the passionate New Orleans fan base suggests a fervent desire for change.
Social Media Eruption: #FireDennisAllen Trends
Dennis Allen’s head coaching record moves to 23-54. Why is this man employed #FireDennisAllen pic.twitter.com/JQI27gVxcW
— jacob robin (@jacobrobin16) December 3, 2023
In the aftermath of the Saints’ recent loss to the Falcons, a fervent expression of discontent flooded the social media landscape, particularly on the platform formerly known as Twitter, where fans spearheaded the hashtag “#FireDennisAllen.”
 NFC South’s Chaotic Landscape
Despite the Saints maintaining a competitive stance in the playoff race, courtesy of the chaos within the NFC South, a prevailing sentiment among New Orleans supporters is that Allen may not be the ideal leader for the team.
“Easiest schedule in the NFL, both hired to continue the success of the previous regime, turned a good locker-room into dysfunctional… Dennis Allen-Carr gotta go. #FireDennisAllen,” expressed one disgruntled fan.
Another fan echoed the sentiment, stating, “This isn’t fair to the fans. This isn’t fair to the players. This isn’t fair to the city. Make changes. #FireDennisAllen.”
“5 and 6 with the easiest schedule of all time #FireDennisAllen,” commented a third fan, emphasizing the team’s underwhelming performance.
Statistical Reality
Dennis Allen’s coaching record, currently standing at 20-44 in the NFL, raises significant concerns, particularly considering this is his second stint as head coach. The statistics alone paint a picture of underachievement and demand scrutiny.
Playoff Failure Could Spell the End
With the Saints teetering on the brink of playoff qualification, the stakes are high for Allen. Should the team fail to secure a postseason spot, defending Allen’s position becomes an arduous task for the front office, especially considering the erosion of the once-unwavering fan base.
FAQ’S
- Q: What is Dennis Allen’s coaching background with the New Orleans Saints?
- A: Dennis Allen began his tenure with the New Orleans Saints in 2015 as an interim defensive coordinator and senior defensive assistant coach. He later became the team’s defensive coordinator for six seasons before being appointed as the head coach in 2022.
- Q: What are Dennis Allen’s notable achievements as a defensive coordinator?
- A: During his time as the defensive coordinator for the Denver Broncos, Dennis Allen mentored Von Miller, who earned the prestigious AP Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2011. He continued this success with the Saints, coaching Marshon Lattimore to the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year title in 2017.
- Q: How has Dennis Allen’s coaching record been during his second stint with the New Orleans Saints?
- A: Since becoming the head coach in 2022, Dennis Allen has guided the Saints to a 12-16-0 record over two seasons, showcasing resilience and adaptability in the competitive NFL landscape.
- Q: What is the current standing of the New Orleans Saints in the NFC South division?
- A: As of now, the New Orleans Saints share the division lead in the NFC South with the Atlanta Falcons, both having a 5-6 record.
- Q: Is Dennis Allen’s job security in jeopardy after the recent loss to the Falcons?
- A: The loss to the Falcons has intensified discussions about Dennis Allen’s leadership, and fan dissatisfaction is growing. However, historical trends of the Saints avoiding midseason coaching changes, along with support from general manager Mickey Loomis, make immediate dismissal less likely, though future performance remains a critical factor.
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