In the midst of a tumultuous season, the New Orleans Saints have found an unlikely spark in interim head coach Darren Rizzi. Since taking over for the fired Dennis Allen on November 4th, Rizzi has injected new life into the struggling franchise with his unconventional tactics and genuine approach.
The Prop Master
Rizzi’s coaching style is far from ordinary. In his first team meeting after Allen’s dismissal, he brought in a shovel as a prop to symbolize how the Saints needed to dig themselves out of a hole following seven straight losses. Since then, his props have evolved into full costumes, with Rizzi even dressing up as the cartoon character Bob the Builder to drive home his points.
I look like Bob the Builder by the way, in front of the room, just for the record, for those who’ve seen Bob the Builder. You can get a good visual of me right now.
Darren Rizzi, Saints Interim Head Coach
While some may view these antics as gimmicks, Rizzi’s players have bought into his methods. Tight end Juwan Johnson noted that each prop has had symbolic meaning tied to that week’s theme, hammering home the importance of finishing the job and paying attention to the little things.
Changing the Culture
In addition to his creative motivational tactics, Rizzi has implemented several changes to the team’s daily operations. He rearranged the locker room, adjusted the practice schedule, and named running back Alvin Kamara a permanent team captain. These small touches have helped to create a new energy within the organization.
The best advice I’ve been given by guys who have been in this situation before is be yourself. I really don’t know how not to be myself. There’s really nothing phony about me.
Darren Rizzi, Saints Interim Head Coach
Keeping Playoff Hopes Alive
Rizzi’s unique approach has paid immediate dividends, as the Saints have won both games under his leadership. At 4-7, New Orleans finds itself squarely in the mix for the NFC South title, with six games remaining on their schedule. Quarterback Derek Carr has praised Rizzi’s ability to connect with the team’s younger players, striking a balance between demanding excellence and showing genuine care for his squad.
I think he has a very good feel on how to deal with this generation of player. And he’s doing it really well. I’ve been around a few guys that are really good at the way that they love their team and love their players, but can demand from them and guys will appreciate and respond. And that’s a fine line to walk. And he walks it really well.
Derek Carr, Saints Quarterback
Auditioning for the Future
While Rizzi’s interim tag means his future with the Saints is uncertain, he has made it clear that he aspires to be a head coach in the NFL. Having previously interviewed for the Saints and Miami Dolphins head coaching vacancies, Rizzi views this unexpected opportunity as an extended audition to prove he has what it takes to lead a team long-term.
As the Saints prepare to face the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13, all eyes will be on Darren Rizzi to see if he can keep the team’s newfound momentum going. With each hard hat, construction vest, and impassioned speech, Rizzi is not only fighting for the Saints’ playoff hopes but also for his own future as an NFL head coach. For now, he’s content to bring his unique brand of leadership to the Big Easy, one prop at a time.
