Jim Caldwell: Respect Is Due for the Colts' Leading Man

When you think of the Indianapolis Colts, you think of Peyton Manning. It's almost like thinking of NASCAR without Jimmie Johnson: The simple idea wouldn't register in most people's minds.

Amongst all the Super Bowl excitement and praise that both teams are getting, the coaches and staffs are being shoved to the back row, as they often are during the crazy time of year that is February. 

For Colts coach Jim Caldwell, a pat on the back isn't necessary. He finds his own recognition in knowing that he has guided a fantastic team to the Super Bowl in only his first year at the job.  Although the parties are going on in both Indianapolis and New Orleans, Lucas Oil Stadium will resemble a busy office, as Jim Caldwell returns to work on Tuesday to finish off the job that is a hopeful Lombardi Trophy homecoming. 

As busy as Caldwell may be, his current career achievements shine through to reporters like bacon grease on a sheet of paper. Fourteen-straight wins in a first year as head coach has never been done before, and to top it all off, if Caldwell is successful in a Super Bowl win, he'll be only the third coach in NFL history to pull off a championship win as a rookie head coach.

"I spend very little time thinking about those kinds of things," mentioned Caldwell, following the Colts' 31-20 win over the New York Jets on Sunday night.

"I've never been one to look for any special attention. I've never needed anybody to tell me I've done a good job. The great thing about this league? We've got a great barometer that tells you what kind of job that you've done, and that's that won-lost record," he said.

Much like legendary coach Vince Lombardi, Caldwell doesn't require any special attention in regards to his efforts. Why should he? With a team that plays so respectfully on and off the field, Caldwell's coaching style is often seen just by watching the Colts play.

For Indianapolis, the coach and quarterback relationship has always been a must.  Whether it was during the Johnny Unitas era, the Manning and Dungy era, or today's era with Manning and Caldwell, the coaching style and quarterback play has always been well discussed in the Colts locker room. 

However, not so much has it been the same story with the former coach and current head coach.  Leading up to Sunday's game, Caldwell mentioned to the press that mentor Tony Dungy had texted him in regards to Sunday's matchup with the New York Jets.

"His influence is profound on me," Caldwell said. "Most of the things that we do are things that were done under his guidance. We've made a few subtle changes here and there, but basically, we've kind of built upon what he established."

It's almost like a father son duo, isn't it? This time, though, the father is still having input. Colts fans should feel privileged that the Caldwell situation worked out. 

What looked like a risky signing in the offseason has proven to be a godsend for Indianapolis.  Week 14 was full of controversy, but Caldwell made the right decision by letting the streak end. Who knows if the Colts would've been Super Bowl-bound if 16-0 had been achieved?

Hats off to Jim Caldwell. Wish him the best. He's done a great job with a great franchise. If we are lucky enough to see the iconic image of the coach holding the Lombardi Trophy over his head, make sure you pay close attention to Jim.  I think by that time he'll give himself a pat on the back.