One team began the season with a rookie quarterback while the other started with their backup under center. And now the Commanders and the Vikings head coaches are at the top of the list of Coach of The Year. And when you look at they’ve done to help turn around their franchises in just five weeks, it appears this award could be a two-horse race between Kevin O’Connell and Dan Quinn.
Kevin O’Connell, Vikings +135 Preseason Odds: +2000
After losing Kirk Cousins to free agency and then having 1st round pick J.J. McCarthy went down with a season ending injury, many expected the Vikings to struggle but Kevin O’Connell has jumped out to an impressive 5-0 start and Sam Darnold has been one of the biggest surprises in the NFL. If the Vikings continue their hot streak, and stay in division contention, O’Connell should be the obvious choice.
Dan Quinn, Commanders +370 Preseason Odds: +1800
Dan Quinn has been able to turn around the Commanders early this season with the emergence of rookie sensation Jayden Daniels leading the way. Washington is not only turning heads with its QB but challenging for the NFC East as the Eagles and Cowboys falter in the first month. What’s helped Quinn has been OC Kliff Kingsbury who has helped this offense into one of the highest scoring teams in the league.
Mike Macdonald, Seahawks +1400 Preseason Odds: +1200
After a couple of impressive seasons as the Ravens DC, Mike MacDonald has brought in a new era in Seattle. The schedule was favorable but Macdonald has seen his side struggle in the last two, including a stunning loss at home to the Giants. If he can right the ship and get the Hawks into the playoffs, he’s in contention. If they win the division, Macdonald likely wins this award.
Matt Lafleur, Packers +2800 Preseason Odds: +1200
Matt Lafleur has been able to post a record of 3-2 and he won two of those games without his star QB Jordan Love. The offense has been able to create a run game that confuses the opposition. Green Bay does have a tough road ahead but if Lafleur can get this team into the playoffs, he could be in play for this honor, and at this price, it may be worth the risk.
Coach Of The Year Odds
Kevin O’Connell +135
Dan Quinn +370
Sean Payton +1000
Mike Macdonald +1400
Jim Harbaugh +1600
Raheem Morris +1600
Dan Campbell +2000
Demeco Ryans +2200
Mike Tomlin +2200
Matt LaFleur +2800
