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Palmer's decision the right one

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Posted: Thursday September 16, 1999 01:28 PM

I couldn't agree more with the decision by Cleveland Browns coach Chris Palmer to start Tim Couch this week against the Tennessee Titans.

My only question is, why did he wait so long? It's a week too late.

Look what happened in Week 1, the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers. We're talking about 40 yards total offense and two first downs. Obviously, it's going to be a struggle for the Browns because of the talent level, but I'm glad to see this kid get in and learn under the baptism of fire.

In my coaching experience, I've never hesitated starting a rookie quarterback -- if that rookie quarterback was projected to be the most talented on your roster. With the credentials that Couch has from his college career, and the stats that he had in preseason, it's certainly justifiable.

It's been my experience that you don't learn on the sidelines in the NFL, and I certainly endorse the move Palmer is making.

I started first-round draft pick Tony Eason as a rookie in 1983 with the New England Patriots, and we went 8-8. I started Chris Chandler, a third-round pick in 1988 with the Indianapolis Colts, and we finished 9-7 and were second in the division. I started Jeff George, a first-round draft pick in 1990, for 13 games with the Colts, and he threw for 16 touchdowns and 2,152 yards. We finished 7-9.

I don't think those quarterbacks suffered by getting in there and learning. Peyton Manning is another example. I like the way the Colts are bringing him along. I don't think you hurt anyone's ego or destroy anyone by putting them in the game. In fact, I think it's a confidence-builder.

Unless there's an injury, Palmer should give Couch every snap. That's how you learn. Palmer should forewarn everybody that it's going to be a tough season. But it's a season of development.

Pet peeve department: When is the NFL going to do something about artificial turf? Look at the New York Jets. A season-ending injury to Vinny Testaverde and Wayne Chrebet out six weeks with a broken foot, and they were both non-contact. They shouldn't go on tearing up the athletes on artificial turf.

Ron Meyer, a former NFL head coach, is a pro football analyst with CNN/SI and appears weekly on NFL Preview.

 

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