Rams defensive coordinator Lovie Smith has been named the new head coach of the Chicago Bears; his official introduction will be Thursday. Smith was competing against Pittsburgh Steeler offensively line coach Russ Grimm for the job. One ace Smith had in his pocket was his relationship with Bears general manager Jerry Angelo–the two both worked for the Buccaneers when Smith was a defensive assistant and Angelo worked in the front office. The Rams defense wasn’t as strong as it has been in the past, ranking 16th in the league in total defense and allowing over 20 points per game. But the defense had a knack for interceptions and fumble recoveries, ranking first in takeaways. Smith replaces Dick Jauron, who was fired on December 29.
