Interim Coach Giff Smith Rolling With Bumpy LA Season

The Los Angeles Chargers may have a lost season, but that doesn't mean the team plans to roll over in the final three games. After firing Brandon Staley and Tom Telesco, the team quickly promoted Giff Smith as interim HC and Jojo Wooden as interim GM. 

Both men stepping into these roles know that the Chargers have not had the best season. The team is currently 5-9 and has little to play for besides playing the season ruiner for many other AFC teams. 

Still, Smith knows that bad seasons can happen, but he knows what being a head coach means. 

“I’ve been in this game a while and there are always new things that come up,” said Smith, 55. “You just roll with it. You give to these players. You give to this organization. Then, whatever happens, happens.”

Via Giff Smith, LA Times

Though Smith is only serving as the HC for the interim, he could find himself getting an interview to remain the HC when the time comes. The Chargers could win out the rest of the season and at least put a positive cap on a nightmare situation. 

“I’m a football coach,” he said. “You have a game this week, and you want to get this team ready to play in the game. The time for reflection will be in three weeks, really."

Via Giff Smith, LA Times

Smith is correct. There will be time to assess the overall situation once the regular season has concluded. For now, he must get the team ready to face Buffalo on Saturday. 

“I just want to do right by the Spanos family, by this organization, but most importantly, by these players, put them in a position to compete and to win come Saturday night.”

via Giff Smith, LA Times

The Chargers could also play around with bringing in the younger talent to get some reps in during these final three games. They just brought back Max Duggan, and the rookie could do well with some significant playing time. That may not happen during Saturday's game, but it could happen soon. 

Smith knows what it means to represent the Chargers and honor Dean and John Spanos. He can do so by rallying the team into breaking through their messy stride and defeating the Buffalo Bills on Saturday. It sure sounds like he is up for the challenge.