Do head coaches strategize for the playoffs?

[JR4]

... to the point of even losing a game because it would help them in
the playoffs?

Example: If Colts saw that by losing the to the JETs they would
potentially eliminate two tough teams, Ravens and Steelers, from the
playoffs, would they do that?

Or this idea just totally way off base.

 

[Mark.]

Re: Do Head Coachs Strategize for the Playoffs ...

We did a few years back losing to Miami(?) so we'd face Jacksonville in the wildcard round. I'm sure other coaches so too.

 

[scout]

Re: Do Head Coachs Strategize for the Playoffs ...

... to the point of even losing a game because it would help them in
the play offs?

Example: If Colts saw that by losing the to the JETs they would
potentially eliminate two tough teams, Ravens and Steelers, from the
playoffs, would they do that?

Or is idea just totally way off base.

You play to win. In the case of the Colts, they are idiots. A possibility exists that they could meet the Jets again, a team they just gave confidence. This wasn't the last game of the year. I guess team morale doesn't play a part in winning. Did you see any Colt with a happy face on the sideline?
I think BB does strategize for the playoffs during the year by playing different players. We will start seeing Springs a lot more. He could have beat out other corners and played earlier in the year. The problem would be he wouldn't be the same player today, fresh and healthy. Plus, it gave experience to the younger players. Fred Jackson, probably could have come back earlier, but why. Save him for when everything counts.
Here's a prediction. The Pats will have a good lead at half against the Texans. Brady will rest in the fourth with the game in hand.

 

[Gumby]

Re: Do Head Coachs Strategize for the Playoffs ...

this is at least the second time indy has done it. didn't they roll over in last week of season last year to keep the pats out and a couple of years ago I thought they did as well.

We did a few years back losing to Miami(?) so we'd face Jacksonville in the wildcard round. I'm sure other coaches so too.

I thought Pats in that game gave an honest effort to win. At least 3 qtrs worth. which when you have a spot locked up and cant change your position much - how bad do you want it or take a chance on hurting someone. Indy when they roll over are patently obvious about it. (and dont really get called on the carpet for it - watch how fast this dies off espn boards.).

 

[emoney_33]

Re: Do Head Coachs Strategize for the Playoffs ...

We did a few years back losing to Miami(?) so we'd face Jacksonville in the wildcard round. I'm sure other coaches so too.

Isn't that the game people accused Cassel of being TOLD to miss a TD throw after driving all the way to the goalline? They rested starters for good reason, but didn't throw the game.

 

[DaBruinz]

... to the point of even losing a game because it would help them in
the playoffs?

Example: If Colts saw that by losing the to the JETs they would
potentially eliminate two tough teams, Ravens and Steelers, from the
playoffs, would they do that?

Or this idea just totally way off base.

Yes. In fact, if you remember, Dungy and Fisher openly conspired to ensure that the Titans would make it into the play-offs and the Browns would be eliminated. And the league looked the other way because it was "Saint" Dungy... and Fisher is on the Competition committee.