http://jacksonville.com/sports/foot.../story/bill_polian’s_formula_has_colts_on_top Fascinating article about Bill Polian's method for keeping the Colts a perennial contender, of which, the most surprising fact is the number of UDFa's that not only made the team, but started in the SB, along with late round draft picks who just step in and play at a high level. Of side note, Polian the 6 time GM of the year, got his start in the CFL.
Polian, Reid, the Steelers, those three franchises are really good at finding talent that fits their systems. 3 UDFA's starting in the SB? This is after spending a high draft choice on Tony Ugoh, then benching him, they also cut C Steve Justice who was a 3rd rd pick (or so) after one season. Their starters on Defense? 1 first rd pick in Dwight Freeney, they started two DT's who were released by other teams. That is a part of the reason why they keep winning year after year, they can find people who fit their system, as the article mentions, they bring in young players and school them.
not to mention aiding in bringing mudd and moore back to keep that offense alive for another SB run... i figure they will retire now the transition to a rook head coach is an easier move with a guy like polian enjoyed the montreal thing and the marv levy taught me everything stuff great read pod enjoyed the article bill polian is a hard nosed guy who has his system down he does it the right way
They keep winning year after year because of Peyton Manning lol. Look at how well the Colts play when they yank him in weeks 14-17 every year. Bill Polian is one of the best out there, but take away Manning and the Colts are fairly average.
This is the first year I've really paid attention to the NFL/CFL connections and it is surprising how much cross pollination there was between the two leagues. They signed two CFLers, Gigure a wr, and John Chick is a interesting player, the CFL DPOY, the same award Cam Wake won in 08, they worked out Wake but passed on signing him. I also think they really need to reload the defense, it is fine to play late round picks and Street FA's, but you need talent as well as the other stuff.
