RIDER DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR POSITION

A rare Saturday off today afforded a chance to bop around the Queen City, run some errands, and pop by Mosaic Stadium for a Rider update.

From those I spoke to, it appears the Riders are narrowing in on a decision for a new defensive coordinator to replace Richie Hall. And apparently, the decision will pretty much entirely be head coach Ken Miller's to make.

In the mix of course, are incumbent defensive consultant Gary Etcheverry along with veteran CFL warhorse Dave Ritchie. Miller flew to Pittsburgh last week to meet with Ritchie, and came away impressed. Ritchie also comes with a strong endorsement from Rider GM Eric Tillman, whom won a Grey Cup with Ritchie in 1994 with the B.C. Lions.

Also entering the equation however is former Argo defensive coordinator Kavis Reed. The longtime CFL defensive back-turned-coach is exploring some opportunities in the U.S. but if they don't pan out, expect the Riders to make him an offer (if they haven't already). Reed also comes with a strong recommendation from Tillman.

Right now though, Etcheverry is the clubhouse favourite to get the top defensive job. He's highly thought-of by Miller, and is popular with the players. That doesn't mean however, that Ritchie couldn't join the staff altough he remains open to any offers which will allow him to remain in the eastern time zone, closer to his family and grandchildren in Ohio, Rhode Island and Pennsylvania.

With Etcheverry's apparent -- and publicized -- interest in landing a CIS head coaching job, Tillman is hoping for a younger assistant to be groomed for the D.C. job in the event of an Etcheverry departure. That candidate may in fact, be Reed.

These three names aren't the only ones the Riders are talking to however.It's also interesting to note that new Edmonton Eskimo coach Richie Hall has offered a position on his staff to Rider linebacker/special teams coach Alex Smith. The Riders are hoping he stays in Saskatchewan.
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I've also learned Montreal Alouettes head coach Marc Trestman is being considered for the head coaching job with the Oakland Raiders. He's a former offensive coordinator in Oakland.
When Tom Cable was hired to replace the fired Lane Kiffin this season, it was on an interim basis.
RP