[02.04.03] The PR department of the Detroit Drive is issuing the following press release:

DRIVE BEATS LIONS TO PUNCH, HIRES NEW COACH FIRST

(Detroit)--While the Detroit Lions are expected to hire former 49ers coach Steve Mariucci sometime this week, the Detroit Drive have made a coaching hire of their own. Owner/GM Bob Pinter announced the hiring of former Lions and University of Michigan coach Gary Moeller at a press conference this morning.

"We believe Gary has the drive we're looking for," Pinter said in an obvious pun. "As much as I would like to continue coaching the team, I feel that my other duties within the organization demand more of my time."

Pinter coached the Drive to a 5-9 record, while trying to oversee the personnel decisions at the same time. While he was able to build a solid corps of youngsters, including QB Michael Vick, RBs William Green and Travis Henry, and WRs Rod Gardner, Lavernaues Coles, and Plaxico Burress, the team often struggled due to poor coaching decisions.

"I'm thrilled to be a part of such a great organization," Moeller said upon taking the podium. "I don't feel the Ford family really gave me a chance with the Lions. I have a proven record at Michigan and I can show I can coach a pro team."

Rumors around the league indicate Pinter's upcoming marriage to Amanda Wilder may have also influenced his decision to hire some help. Pinter is lobbying for a 2003 draft date of sometime after the big date of August 16th, and before August 31st, when he and Wilder leave for Bermuda.