In wake of the abrupt conclusion to the second Joe Gibbs era, Redskins owner Daniel Snyder knew he could ill afford to make mistakes in choosing a replacement head coach. His franchise just endured one of the most exhaustive and tragic seasons in NFL history. And to make matters worse, the head honcho and glue of the entire locker room operation, Hall of Fame coach Joe Gibbs, announced the end of his second era as Redskins head coach.

Knowing the utter importance of finding a follow-up to a local legend, Snyder kept Gibbs on-hand as an adviser. In the wake of any perceived bad decision, the most respected man in Washington — debatably more respected than the leading man living in the White House — would be by his side every step of the way.

The search went on for what seemed like ages (33 days, to be exact) but the Skins claim to have their man. Many of us thought it best for the well-being of the franchise to promote someone within the organization. Well, they did. Sort of.

Hired as offensive coordinator two weeks ago and subsequently promoted today (Talk about climbing the corporate ladder at a record pace!), the end result, folks, fans and all those seated “to the left, to the left,” meet: Jim Zorn.

Who exactly is this guy? Glad you asked. Here is a quick rundown of what we know about him:

• He spent the last 6 years (sans the 2 week O-coordinator gig) as quarterbacks coach in Seattle; he comes highly regarded as the man who helped turn Matt Hassleback into a Pro-Bowler.
• He played quarterback in the NFL for Seattle and the two Bays — Green and Tampa.
• Conveniently enough, like his predecessor, Zorn is considered a deeply religious man.

“Continuity” is the key buzzword going into this new Zorn coaching era. He came into his new job thanks to:

1. The kind heart of Snyder
2. The adoring recommendation from Seattle QB Hasselback and;
3. As to fulfill the continuity department, the bulk of Gibbs’ coaching staff remains — that is, if you take away the two recently fired head offensive and defensive minds, Al Saunders and Gregg Williams.

The torch was, essentially, handed from Gibbs to Zorn (with a few dozen hands clawing and grabbing at it from below). In his introductory press conference, Zorn acknowledged how much respect he had for the historic Redskins franchise, including his Hall of Fame predecessor (no pressure!) and how shocked many — including himself — were that he was the answer to a 33-day search:

“I look at these three trophies, it’s quite intimidating, and I know who’s behind this little group here,” Zorn said. “I’m very proud to be standing in an organization that has these and . . . I understand the opportunity I’ve been given. I’m sure there are some surprised people. I know I was surprised to get the opportunity, but I know how hard I’m going to work to earn everyone’s trust and confidence.”

So, Zorn, the keys to Washington’s beloved franchise are in your hands. The potential for the team is large:

• A great young quarterback in Jason Campbell, eager to stop switching coaches and offensive systems and ready to start getting settled in to his own system where he can become comfortable (that way no more backups *cough, cough, Todd Collins… *cough* can slide in and steal his starting position if unforeseen circumstances arise) and prosper.
• A formidable defense who showed in the past 2 years they could be in the top tier of the league.
• A fan base in Washington that is as large as any in the country — and, quite possibly, as crazy dedicated.

With that said, Mr. Zorn, please enjoy your days in the driver’s seat; at the adult’s table; wearing the big boys pants. Coach your little heart out but, whatever you do, don’t screw up!

You wouldn’t like the boss when he’s angry.

Don’t believe me? Just ask Marty Schottenheimer.