Schottenheimer staying with Jets

Jets offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer and quarterback Mark Sanchez prepare for Sunday's game against the Chargers with practice. (January 12, 2010) Credit: Joe Epstein
FLORHAM PARK, N.J. - Jets offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer said last week he was so happy with his situation that he hoped to remain with the Jets for many more years. It appears his wish will come true for at least the 2010 season.
Schottenheimer has decided he will not interview for the Bills' head coaching job, according to a source familiar with his situation. ESPN first reported Wednesday that Schottenheimer would decline the Bills' interview request. The Bills had asked permission on Monday to speak about the vacancy, and the Jets would have honored that request.
Schottenheimer could have a change of heart once the Jets are done with the playoffs, but the way he sounded last week, that doesn't appear likely. Schottenheimer, who was unavailable for comment Wednesday, is expected to address the media Thursday.
Schottenheimer has come under scrutiny in his four years with the Jets for his sometimes daring play-calls that occasionally go awry, but he mostly has pushed the right buttons this season, especially after coach Rex Ryan shifted the emphasis to the running game. The Jets led the league in rushing, and they did it despite a season-ending leg injury to Leon Washington in Week 7.
"I just know the man is extremely talented, and has a great rapport with the players," Ryan said of Schottenheimer Wednesday. "The thing I like is the way he empowers the coaches who are coaching with him. That's the mark of a great coach, a great leader."
Ryan also likes that Schottenheimer, like Ryan, is the son of a former head coach. Schottenheimer's father, Marty, was a longtime coach of the Browns, Chiefs, Redskins and Chargers. Ryan's father is former Eagles and Cardinals coach Buddy Ryan.
"He grew up the same way I did," Ryan said. "I know it's helped me and I've benefited from it and its shows that he has as well. He's his own person, but he has really been impressive. He's not trying to fit a square peg in a round hole. He's shown this year how flexible he can be by utilizing all the talent around him."
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