PRO FOOTBALL / DAILY REPORT : AROUND THE NFL : Bugel’s Job Secure for Rest of Season

Joe Bugel’s job as coach of the Phoenix Cardinals is safe for the rest of the season.

A qualified vote of confidence came from team owner Bill Bidwill, who 10 1/2 months ago told Bugel his team had to win nine games this season.

The Cardinals were 5-11, 4-12 and 4-12 in Bugel’s first three seasons. They are now 3-8, having lost six of their last seven games. With each loss, Bugel’s job appeared less secure. But Bidwill says he’ll stay with his man.

“To keep the focus of our remaining games on the field, where it should be, the Cardinals’ coaching staff will continue without interruption for at least the rest of the season,” he said in a statement.

Bidwill, known for loyalty to front-office employees, said on Jan. 15 he liked the way the team refused to quit. Bugel was retained for the fourth year of his four-year contract.