First-time coordinator Sullivan in tough spot

When the Arizona Cardinals offered wide receivers coach Jerry Sullivan the vacant offensive coordinator position, he originally refused. But less than a week later Olson, who was being courted by Bill Parcells to the Cowboys' staff, decided that it wouldn't be wise to turn down his first-ever shot at leading an offense.

Given that it was the Cardinals giving him the opportunity, some would beg to differ. When he took the job, the Redbirds had Jake Plummer and David Boston, but the team's two most recognizable offensive players were let go and the Cardinals continued the purge by releasing their other top two wideouts. Those moves were ironic, considering Sullivan is primarily known for his affinity for passing the ball.

Coach Dave McGinnis hired Sullivan as wide receivers coach in 2001, and Sullivan was instrumental in molding Boston into a Pro Bowl receiver that season. But that was hardly the only impressive spot on his resume.

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