Despite an 0-6 start, Tennessee Titans coach Jeff Fisher managed to keep his sense of humor on Tuesday.
Fisher was at Lipscomb’s Allen Arena to introduce former Indianapolis Colts coach Tony Dungy to those gathered for an engagement to benefit Rocketown. Fisher stepped to the podium in a suit and tie, then removed his coat, turned around and unbuttoned his shirt to reveal a blue and white No. 18 Peyton Manning Indianapolis Colts jersey before introducing Dungy.
“I just wanted to feel like a winner,” Fisher joked as the crowd erupted in applause and laughter.
Dungy’s former team is currently unbeaten at 5-0 and leading the AFC South.
Several Nashville television stations recorded the video.
Asked about Fisher’s unorthodox introduction, Dungy said, “He made me feel right at home. Jeff is always the master of the unusual. That was quite a surprise but something only he would do. But just being here, and coming out and supporting this even with the team being 0-6, just to come out and be supportive, that’s who Jeff Fisher is. That’s why he is special. He pulled one out of the hat to make me feel at home.”
Rocketown is an endeavor created by contemporary Christian singer Michael W. Smith for young people to go to and receive faith-based counseling and mentoring along with recreational activities.
Others who took part in the event included country singers Vince Gill and Martina McBride and former Titans receiver Chris Sanders.
Dungy was asked what advice he might offer to Fisher as the Titans remain winless.
“Whenever we’ve talked, most of the time, it’s been both of our teams playing well. But there have been times when they’ve been playing well and we haven’t and vice versa. But we always told each other, ‘Just stick to your guns. Stick to what you believe in.’ That’s the best way out of it. I know that’s what they’re gonna do and I know they’ll bounce back,” Dungy said.
Dungy said he is enjoying his new job as a studio analyst for NBC’s Football Night in America and said he doubts he will ever go back into coaching. He said he now has time to do more ministry and charity work.
“It’s been pretty awesome to do events like this and do outreach to young people and visit prisons a little bit more. I just really think that’s what I’m really called to do,” Dungy said. “I just think [coaching] was a stage of my life and my career. I enjoyed it. I had 28 wonderful years, but I think I’m on to something else.”