MKRob Sports

Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator Mike Zimmer has been honored by the Professional Football Writers Association’s Halas Award, which is for the individual in the NFL who overcame the most adversity to succeed last season.

Zimmer’s wife, Vicki, passed away suddenly on Oct. 8 in the family’s home. The couple had been married 27 years. Three days later, Zimmer was with the team for their game in Baltimore, which they won, 17-14. Following the win, Zimmer received the game ball.

Said Zimmer about the award: “Anytime your name is mentioned with George Halas, and all the other people who have won this award in the past, it’s a terrific honor. It’s a credit to our players and coaches, (head coach) Marvin (Lewis), and my kids. They helped me hang in through the adversity. If I hadn’t had them, it would have been harder to continue on. Our veteran core group of players really helped me in a number of ways. They were a strength for me.”

Last year the Bengals were fourth in total defense (their highest ranking since they were first in 1983), seventh against the run and sixth against the pass. It was the first time since 1989 that all three were ranked in the Top 10. In two seasons in Cincinnati, Zimmer has taken the defense from 27th to 12th to fourth.