Phillips Interested In Defensive Coordinator Job
Son of Bum says he'd like to come back home
Houston Chronicle

Houston, TX, Monday, January 3, 2011. Wade Phillips is interested in becoming the Texans’ new defensive coordinator.

After he fired defensive coordinator Frank Bush on Monday, coach Gary Kubiak said Phillips was a candidate to replace Bush. Kubiak said he planned to interview Phillips.

Owner Bob McNair also praised Phillips.

“Yes, I am interested,” Phillips said Monday night. “I know the owner and coach. I like them, and they’re guys I’d like to work for.”

Kubiak plans to interview Phillips.

“I will be talking to people (candidates) as soon as I can,” Kubiak said. “I’ve known Wade a long time. I’ve competed against him. I have a lot of respect for him. I think it’s safe to say that Wade will be a candidate.”

McNair also is a fan of Phillips.

“I think Wade’s a terrific coach,” McNair said. “We’ll have to sit down and visit with him.”

Kubiak also fired linebackers coach Johnny Holland, assistant linebackers coach Robert Saleh and defensive backs coach David Gibbs.

Kubiak said the new defensive coordinator will have input in the hiring of assistants and personnel on that side of the ball.

If Phillips gets the job, he’d be returning to Houston. He played and coached at the the University of Houston. He also coached the Oilers’ defensive line under his father, Bum Phillips, before they were fired after the 1980 season.

“Coming home to Houston would be an added bonus,” Phillips said. “I’ve got family, friends and classmates there.”

Phillips prefers a 3-4 defense. Kubiak said he’d have no problem with a switch in systems if the new defensive coordinator thought it was best for the team.

 

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