September 29, 2025 • 21 mins
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay gives an update on offensive lineman Steve Avila’s recovery status, the importance of depth in the defensive backs room since cornerback Ahkello Witherspoon’s injury, and more.
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Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hey, Sean, did you guys come out of the game
with any injuries yesterday?
Speaker 2 (00:03):
Yeah, I mean I think we're good.
Speaker 3 (00:04):
You know, the guys are still trickling in right now.
You know, we started our recovery and stuff after the game,
and so my initial talks with Reggie, you know, yesterday
after all the guys were getting kind of checked out,
was positive. But as always, you know, sometimes after they
get some sleep, you know, guys come in with stuff.
Speaker 2 (00:19):
So they're kind of still trickling in right now.
Speaker 1 (00:22):
Do you expect Steve to play on Saturday or on Thursday?
Speaker 3 (00:25):
We'll see, so not sure about that yet. But he's, uh,
he's doing a great job. He's done everything that we've asked.
And I think he, you know, had a really good
week last week getting himself back rolling, and so love
Steve looking forward to it. You know, the Thursday games
are interesting, so we'll see.
Speaker 2 (00:42):
Where we're at.
Speaker 1 (00:43):
What makes Puka so good?
Speaker 2 (00:46):
How would you answer that?
Speaker 1 (00:48):
A lot of things?
Speaker 3 (00:49):
Yeah, I agree, I think playstyle, toughness, demeanor, you know,
I mean you just see the improvement that he's made.
But I mean when you look at the aggressive hands
through the catch point, the ability to be able to
create separation, create after the catch, you know, being being
at your best in the most you know, pivotal moments.
You know, he's doing everything that you want and think,
(01:12):
like Matthew said after the game, I think his play
style is exactly what we're looking for. I think it
rubs off on the whole team. We've got a lot
of guys that play that way, and guys can go
ahead and hit mute on one of those zooms in
the background too. But I'm just messing with the artists.
But no, he's He's amazing, and I just love the mindset.
I love him as a human being more importantly, but
(01:35):
you know, just you know, I think the simplest things
you look for in a receiver get open and catch
the football. He's doing that at an incredibly high rate.
And then what he does after the balls in his
hands is really it's it's special stuff. And in a
lot of instances, because of the way he competes without
the ball, it helps him in some of those instances
as well.
Speaker 1 (01:55):
We've talked about his toughness in terms of being able
to come back into a game after injury. Well you
talk about after the catch, what he does with his body.
Can you just kind of explain why that's unique to him?
Speaker 3 (02:08):
You know, I think the people that would be best
able to articulate it would be.
Speaker 2 (02:11):
The ones trying to tackle him.
Speaker 3 (02:12):
You know, I just know this, there's a feel that
he has on game day that, man, this guy's taking
his game to a different level. And you know, I
don't even think you can appreciate it when you're watching
it on film unless you're physically present or actually trying to,
you know, feel what that.
Speaker 2 (02:28):
Feels like in the moment. And he's a grown man.
Speaker 3 (02:32):
He plays the game the right way, and man, I
just think the way that his spirit is competitiveness. We
have a lot of guys like that, but I think
the most excited I saw him yesterday was.
Speaker 2 (02:42):
For two two at well making that play.
Speaker 3 (02:43):
You know, you talk about a guy that enjoys his
teammate successes and just has a great just he's got
a great vibe to himself. He's he's outstanding and he
and he has been a catalyst for you know what
we've done this first month without a doubt.
Speaker 1 (02:58):
Thank you, You're welcome.
Speaker 4 (03:02):
Just a quick follow up question on Steve.
Speaker 5 (03:03):
Is there anything in terms of checkpoints or landmarks that
he still has to hit from a rehab standpoint before
he can go.
Speaker 3 (03:09):
Yeah, I think it's just how he feels, you know,
And I think a part part of that is his
communication to us, talking with Reggie, and then the evaluation
of what he looks like, you know, relative to being
able to go and be the Steve that that we
know and that's been a really good player for us
the last few years.
Speaker 5 (03:25):
And then Matthew's at or near the top and several
passing categories statistically just through the first you know, four
weeks here. What have you seen from him that's allowed
to play at a level that I know you're already
accustomed to the scene, but just compared to those.
Speaker 2 (03:39):
Numbers, Yeah, I think you know.
Speaker 3 (03:41):
And I don't misunderstand what I'm saying. I've never been
a stats guy, you know. I'm interested in one play
at a time. Are you playing in the timing rhythm,
you know, the accuracy, anticipation getting the ball where it is,
and he's done a great job of.
Speaker 2 (03:54):
That, Stu.
Speaker 3 (03:55):
And I think in a lot of instances, you know,
some of his I thought he's played you know really well.
I think you've seen the field well I think that
you show me a great quarterback, I'll show you a
guy that has some challenging snaps in the a how
do we respond?
Speaker 2 (04:07):
And nobody does it better than him.
Speaker 3 (04:09):
I thought he made some key critical plays at the
most opportune moments yesterday. You know, for him to recognize
some of the different looks and be able to get
the ball where it goes is a real advantage that
we don't take for granted.
Speaker 2 (04:22):
You know, he's he is. You know, it's already well known.
Speaker 3 (04:26):
I don't think anybody will be surprised when he was
putting a gold jacket on, you know, but this guy
loves playing. I mean, I know he's know when he's
ended up trying to you know, act like he can't
run anymore. When you watch out fast he was running
after two two at Wells touchdowns. So he's got more
in the tank than he's got or than he's acting
like when he's taken off on some of these scrambles.
Speaker 2 (04:45):
But I love.
Speaker 3 (04:46):
Everything the guy's about, and I feel really grateful to
be able to do this with him Stu and uh
And he played outstanding, and he played his best in
the most important moments. You know, the two minute drive
at the end of the half, the two drives that
we had to have at the end of the game,
and then ultimately orchestrating a good four minute operation where
Kiren has two good runs and then we're able to
take two knees.
Speaker 2 (05:06):
There's nothing more beautiful than that. Thank you appreciate it.
You're welcome year.
Speaker 6 (05:13):
Hey, Sean. With the way that you guys have neutralized
I guess Sakwon Barkley and Jonathan Taylor the last couple
of games, is is this kind of what you envisioned
in terms when you guys were adding Puna and Landman
in terms of run defense.
Speaker 2 (05:29):
Yeah, I mean it's huge.
Speaker 3 (05:30):
I mean these are these are two of the premiere backs,
and like I said to you yesterday, oh here we
go with a guy that is equally as dangerous as
a runner and a receiver that we're playing on Thursday night.
So I think our defense has done a really good
job of neutralizing two of the best players in this league. Obviously,
there were some instances that you know, we got the
there was some penalties on that play that got called back,
(05:52):
but some good learning ops for us in terms of
being able to you know, finish all the way through
the ech with the whistle, with tackling. But I've been
really pleased, and I think Gift Smith and you know, Drew
Wilkins and Joe Caniglio, they do such a great job
with our fronts, you know, g Money, with our inside backers,
and Chris Overall and Aubrey and Beek and coach Harris,
you know, really just our defensive staff as a whole,
(06:13):
and then ultimately the players bring it to life. I've
been really pleased with them the last couple of weeks
as it relates to what you're asking against.
Speaker 2 (06:19):
Two excellent runners, two excellent schemes that had.
Speaker 3 (06:22):
Some different flavors to it, but both really presented a
lot of challenges, and I thought our defense was a
key and critical factor.
Speaker 2 (06:29):
And two good performances the last two weeks.
Speaker 6 (06:32):
I know you're, you know, just starting to dive into
the forty nine ers or doing it quickly, I guess.
But what are you seeing, you know with this version?
Is this is this kind of the same type of group?
Is this a team that's evolved? What's kind of your
first impressions?
Speaker 3 (06:47):
Yeah, it'd be It'd be probably premature for me to
get too much into the weeds.
Speaker 2 (06:51):
Here's what I do know. Anytime that you've got, you know,
a team.
Speaker 3 (06:56):
Led by Kyle, they're gonna be tough on both sides
line of scrimmage. Obviously, Robert has a great influence, and
they look like they've played really well defensively, they found
ways to win football games. Haven't had a chance to
get into the Jacksonville game yet, but nobody has more
respect for this group than I do. We know what
a great challenge it's gonna be. But that's what you
love about this league is every single week there's great challenges,
(07:20):
you know, But this is the forty nine Ers, the
team that plays tough and physical on both sides of
a line of scrimmage. There they challenge you a lot
of ways schematically, and then they've got some really special
players that elevate those around them. And that's what I
would imagine I'm going to see on the tape as well.
Speaker 6 (07:35):
And then finally we you know, we've all seen how
the forty nine Ers fans love to come to so far,
do you anticipate that things might be turning a bit
in your favor in terms of rams fans kind of
neutralize neutralizing that element.
Speaker 2 (07:54):
Yeah, your home game.
Speaker 3 (07:55):
Hey, you know, we certainly hope so I think, you know,
they've obviously got a great fan you know, I blame
my grandpa for that, you know, you know a lot
of the success they had in the early years. But
I've loved the home atmospheres we've had this year. You know,
I look at the Texans and yesterday's game, I certainly
felt our crowd. I thought it was an advantage in
an edge to us, and I'm looking forward to seeing,
(08:16):
you know, as many Rams fans come out and support
us on Thursday night. And you know, forty nine ers
always travel well. But I'm hopeful and optimistic.
Speaker 2 (08:25):
Gary, Thanks very much, Welcome, Adam, Thank Sean A.
Speaker 7 (08:31):
Kello before his injury, was your corner who would line
up against those bigger physical receivers into two weeks in
his absence. How would you kind of grade out how
your cornerback room has held up without him.
Speaker 3 (08:42):
Yeah, I think, uh, here's the first thing I would say.
I think you look at it. You know, Kell's a
stunt and I was really pleased and everything that Akello
had done and even going back to the previous two
years and then a way that he had started off,
and like I said, I think we feel really fortunate
that we've got some good depth. I think the Kobe
Durantz played really well. I think Forbes has had his
moments and he's really learning, you know, a lot of
(09:04):
things as we continue to grow with him and support him.
And can't say enough about the job that Aubrey and
those guys do of continuing to watch a guy that
man has some really cool gifts and is going to
continue to just get better and better the way he
approaches it. And sometimes you learn the best from some
challenging moments. But I think the Kobe Durant's been really good,
and I think Darius has had two good weeks the
(09:24):
last couple of weeks. You know, obviously AJ Brown a
week ago made some great plays, but you know, I
thought those guys did a nice job playing their best
and the most important moments. Yesterday, I thought a rush
was a real factor where Jones had to get the
ball out of his hand a little bit quicker.
Speaker 2 (09:39):
You know.
Speaker 3 (09:40):
So I thought those guys were solid, and I thought,
you know, Aubrey did an excellent job of feeling out
a good rotation as the game kind of unfolded and
we'll see what that looks like for this week.
Speaker 7 (09:50):
We talk a lot about quarterbacks and receivers developing relationships
and year one, But when you have a receiver QB
combo like Puka and Matthew who are in year three, Now,
what does that amount of time together allow you to
kind of like allow them to explore in terms of
like how their relationship and dynamic can grow.
Speaker 3 (10:10):
Yeah, I just think there's an understanding of I think
they see the game through the same lens, you know,
and I think, you know, repetitions the mother of learning,
and I think it's also the mother of being able
to build trust through different experiences. They've had a lot
of accumulated reps together, you know, where they're able to
be on the same page. I think there's a ton
of trust that Puka has in Matthew in terms of,
(10:30):
you know, where the ball is going to be, where
is he putting it, why is he putting it there?
Speaker 2 (10:35):
I think there's an understanding of the.
Speaker 3 (10:36):
Types of things that they like versus different coverage contours,
and so there's just a ton of trust. There's a
ton of you know, rapport that those two have had
that's been built up over the last couple of years,
as you alluded to, you know, and it's two great
players that are bringing some really cool stuff to life,
and you know it's fun to watch.
Speaker 7 (10:55):
And then like, what is the key to preparing for
these Thursday games? Like as a coach staff, like what
are the like not to go into trade secrets, but like,
how have you kind of learned to prepare for these
short notes?
Speaker 3 (11:06):
I think you have to be decisive, you know, you
have to be able to make quick decisions, make sure
you understand where you're at, you know, what, what's the
opponent doing. What are going to be the best ways
to make sure that there's clarity for our players, but
getting their bodies turned over for Thursday and then ultimately
giving them a plan that allows them to go you know,
have you know some some things that we try to
be able to give them advantages but not overload them
(11:29):
with information because everything's accelerated in a short week, so,
you know, clarity, decisiveness, allowing guys to feel like they
have that peace of mind and they're mentally and physically
as fresh as they can possibly be. Those are some
of the key things we try to focus on. You
don't have time to overthink things, so you have to,
you know, make quick decisions.
Speaker 7 (11:47):
Thanks Sean, You're welcome.
Speaker 2 (11:49):
Bruh Co.
Speaker 8 (11:54):
What was your thoughts on Disaster Stewart's performance last night.
Speaker 2 (11:57):
I thought he was solid.
Speaker 3 (11:57):
You know, he played a little over twenty snaps. I
thought he did a solid job on some of the
early downs. I thought he did a nice job in
some of the known rush situations. Could have maybe drawn
a hold on one of the great rushes that he
that he ended up having, and then you know, we'd
used them a little bit in some different coverages, and
I thought he did an excellent job with some feel underneath,
ended up rallying to a checkdown where he kind of
was sticky on Jonathan Taylor.
Speaker 2 (12:20):
You know, he's a stud. He's just getting better and better,
you know.
Speaker 3 (12:23):
I think Joe Caniglio does such a good job with
that group as a whole, and I was really pleased
with really all four.
Speaker 2 (12:28):
Of those guys.
Speaker 3 (12:29):
But Josiah is only going to continue to get better
and more comfortable and love.
Speaker 2 (12:33):
Where he's at. And I thought he was a big
time contributor yesterday for.
Speaker 8 (12:37):
Us, going back to earlier earlier in the game, when
you went forward on fourth and one, that's your own
forty five? Why did you want to be so aggressive?
And on why that play called the quarterbacks.
Speaker 3 (12:46):
Neat Yeah, I mean felt like we had a good look.
It was less than a yard. That's a play that
I expect us to be able to make.
Speaker 8 (12:53):
And ask question is when it comes to the defensive secondary,
especially the safeties, has there been some thing that you've
seen for them this year that you weren't expecting through
this process?
Speaker 2 (13:04):
You know, I don't know that.
Speaker 3 (13:05):
It's not anything I wasn't expecting. I think, you know,
you look at it. I think there's there's a lot
of continuity. You know, you look at the guys that
are playing the most, our top four safeties. You know,
when you're looking at Q, you're looking at Cam, You're
looking at Kitch, you know, and then you're looking at Tank.
Those guys have all played. You know, they're really comfortable.
I think Beacon Aubury do such a good job. I
(13:25):
was so pleased for Cam Curl. I thought Camp Kitchens
had some playoffs and you know, he's so hard on himself,
he'll want to make some of those picks, but man,
he had some good concept triggers Quinton Lake is so
valuable and man Tank McCollough just does such an excellent
job being able to play you know, some different roles.
What a play made on the screen where he's able
to you know, kind of fight through a knife, through
traffic and make a great play on Taylor. But Cam
(13:47):
Curle making two big picks. I thought he was great
and run support. Nothing really surprising, Just really proud and
pleased with the way that that group has continued to progress.
Speaker 2 (13:57):
Thank you, You're welcome.
Speaker 9 (13:58):
Nate.
Speaker 10 (14:01):
Hey Sean, I feel like each week we asked you
about the split between Kyraen and Blake and kind of
how that shakes out. Just how do you kind of
assess how that went and what's your general philosophy between
you know, feeding a player who's hot in the moment
like Kyen was early in that game versus you know,
making it a committee and getting other guys involved.
Speaker 2 (14:20):
Yeah. I think, you know, I think it was good yesterday.
I think there was some instances.
Speaker 3 (14:24):
You know, I think when you run the football, those
two guys they do a great job, you know, but
running the football is you know, football is the greatest
team sport that there is, and so you know, I
think the feel I think the important thing for us
is to get both guys involved.
Speaker 2 (14:37):
You know, certainly, if there's a.
Speaker 3 (14:38):
Hot hand, I think that's something that the situation dictates.
But I think we do want to try to be
disciplined and making sure that there's a lot of trust
in both of those guys to be able to play
and not be shortsighted.
Speaker 2 (14:50):
And in the moment.
Speaker 3 (14:52):
You know what, I think my favorite thing, and I
told this to him, one of my favorite things about
Kayen Williams is he's at his best after a moment
where man I.
Speaker 2 (14:59):
Put him in a terrible position.
Speaker 3 (15:00):
I don't think that was his fault at all on
the one fumble, and just you watch his response and
his resolve, and I thought it was important to give
him an opportunity to be able to continue to play
through that, and he just he answered the bell in
a big way.
Speaker 2 (15:12):
He's just I love him so much.
Speaker 3 (15:14):
I love Blake too, and I thought they both did
a good job within the framework of what they were asked.
There'll be some opportunities where let's be a little bit
better turns of Matthew and Blake being connected on some
of the checkdowns, But I think you want to get
him both involved.
Speaker 2 (15:28):
I thought yesterday was good.
Speaker 3 (15:29):
And then I think it's important to understand if there's
a hot hand, you go with it. But it's also
important to be able to get both guys involved.
Speaker 2 (15:36):
If that answers your question, Nate, yep.
Speaker 10 (15:39):
And then the way you guys finish that game as
a passing game was obviously pretty electric. Not just a
big play to too too, but Saffron finished nine to
ten just when you watched it back, what do you
feel like kind of got that group going even more
as the game went on.
Speaker 3 (15:55):
Yeah, I thought he saw the field well. I thought
he got the ball where the coverage dictated. I thought
we protected, you know, so I think you know it
was you know, it always starts with you know, Matthew
did a great job of orchestrating, you know, a really
two good scoring drives, seeing the field, taking what the
defense gave him. You know, you got a little bit
more regulated rushes where I thought our line battled and
(16:17):
gave him time to be able to get through progressions.
And so, you know, just just really good execution by
Matthew at the critical moments. And you know, and then
for I and to to to be able to connect
on that one play that was really special and uh,
you know, an excellent job by him recognizing you know,
you know, the the you know, the coverage that they
were in in that particular instance.
Speaker 2 (16:43):
Awesome, We got Grint and Dennis all right, Hey, great.
Speaker 4 (16:49):
Hey, when you have two receivers who are studs, elite
pro Bowl level guys, who get about ninety percent of
your targets from two receivers, what do you say to
the other receivers to stay ready for a play like
two two made or a guy like Jordan who's played
like two thirds of year snaps and that's six targets.
Speaker 3 (17:05):
Yeah, I think it's important that you know, first of all,
we feel really fortunate. I do think it's important that
the ball, the distribution of the ball where we're cognizant
of that and still getting those guys involved, and you
just you know, you continue to you know, let those
guys know, Hey, where are those examples? You just never
know when that moment's going to arise. But what a
cool credit to to to. I think you talk about
(17:26):
the enjoyment of other success and watching how happy his
teammates were for him and him being ready in the
moment when ends up winning on a high angle cut
versus a man coverage, makes his guy fall and ends
up having the juice to be able to finish, you know,
with the post player in pursuit, and.
Speaker 2 (17:41):
You know, I think you just keep you know, you
keep it real with guys.
Speaker 3 (17:43):
You know, we're going to try to continue to get
those guys involved, talking about you know, Pooka and DeVante,
but I think it's also important to be able to
get your other, you know, three eligibles that are on
the grass for you when you throw the football, whether
that's your back's tight ends or your other receiver, And
so you know, we're cognizant of that. I think you
want to get those guys involved, but also make sure
that you know, we're balanced and uh, you know, and
(18:04):
that's something that we're aware of and you know, and
will continue to try to monitor and figure out ultimately
what's best for our football team and for our offense
to move the ball and score points.
Speaker 4 (18:14):
That yeah, was that was that?
Speaker 8 (18:16):
Jared?
Speaker 2 (18:18):
No, you go ahead, I didn't mean to cut you off.
Speaker 4 (18:20):
Was that Jared versus best game of the season? What'd
you think I got? Player? He ran over the center that.
Speaker 2 (18:24):
Was awesome, man.
Speaker 3 (18:25):
I mean you talk about timing it up with the
play clock going down, it looked like a trip to
me potentially.
Speaker 2 (18:30):
But uh, I thought he was awesome, you know.
Speaker 3 (18:32):
I think really the last couple of weeks, the energy,
pre snap demeanor, the vibe that he's brought to our group,
I think he's been excellent. I think it's been a
reflection of the way that he's approached his preparation throughout
the course of the week. You know, him having an
ownership and an understanding, you know, Joe and the defensive
coaching staff with Coach Shula, you know, being able to
(18:54):
you know, earn the right for our guys to get
into some of those positions versus a stud Yesterday, I
thought it was his best game year for sure.
Speaker 9 (19:01):
You got it.
Speaker 2 (19:02):
Wrapping with you, Dennis.
Speaker 9 (19:03):
Okay, hey, coach, how are you going this morning?
Speaker 2 (19:06):
Good? How are you Dennis?
Speaker 9 (19:07):
We're doing great. Considering what happened in Philadelphia, how important
was it for Josh was confidence to come right back
and line up and kick those two field goals?
Speaker 2 (19:16):
Yeah?
Speaker 3 (19:17):
I thought it was huge, you know, And I thought
I thought our protection. You know, sometimes some challenging moments
can bring out the best in you when you have
the right kinds of people. And it's really proud of
that group as a whole. I think you watch, I mean,
and that that unit was a really good field goal
rush operation. You know, they strained, they tried to attack
our protections, and I thought we did a really good job.
You know, I give a ton of credit you know,
(19:38):
to Chase and Ben and then ultimately our players being
able to execute based on the things that we focused on.
We were automatic on the extra points in the field goals.
I thought Josh was really good. Thought Alex and Ethan
did a nice job with the snaphole, the timing of it,
the trajectory of the kicks, and then you know, Josh
does a great job in those kickoffs and he saved one,
you know, on that one return.
Speaker 2 (19:58):
That popped out.
Speaker 3 (19:59):
Looked like a post player coming out of the middle
of the field to be able to knock the returner
out about So Josh.
Speaker 2 (20:04):
Had an excellent game.
Speaker 3 (20:06):
Not surprised because he's shown that he is a resilient
mentally tough guy. But I think it's a credit to
him and really, you know, the the total group of
being able to respond after.
Speaker 2 (20:17):
Some of the things that that you know, forced us
to be able to really go.
Speaker 3 (20:20):
Back into the lab and and uh and really uh,
you know, lean in and address some of the things
that need to be addressed.
Speaker 2 (20:26):
And that's going to be a consistent approach for us
as we move forward.
Speaker 9 (20:30):
And as a follow up over of course of the
last four weeks, what has been the effort that you
seen from your ball club.
Speaker 2 (20:38):
Yeah, I've loved it in this group.
Speaker 3 (20:40):
I've been pleased with it, you know, and I think
you know, you're always continuing to try to take steps
in the right direction. But what the tip What does
the tape say in terms of the effort, the competitive character,
the competitive stamina that we have. Are we relentless? What
does it really look like? And I've seen that, and uh,
you know that's going to continue to be something we
want to lean into.
Speaker 2 (20:57):
Dennis, Okay, thank you, coach, You're welcome.
Speaker 1 (21:01):
Thanks coach.
Speaker 2 (21:01):
All right, thank you guys,
Hey, Sean, did you guys come out of the game
with any injuries yesterday?
Speaker 2 (00:03):
Yeah, I mean I think we're good.
Speaker 3 (00:04):
You know, the guys are still trickling in right now.
You know, we started our recovery and stuff after the game,
and so my initial talks with Reggie, you know, yesterday
after all the guys were getting kind of checked out,
was positive. But as always, you know, sometimes after they
get some sleep, you know, guys come in with stuff.
Speaker 2 (00:19):
So they're kind of still trickling in right now.
Speaker 1 (00:22):
Do you expect Steve to play on Saturday or on Thursday?
Speaker 3 (00:25):
We'll see, so not sure about that yet. But he's, uh,
he's doing a great job. He's done everything that we've asked.
And I think he, you know, had a really good
week last week getting himself back rolling, and so love
Steve looking forward to it. You know, the Thursday games
are interesting, so we'll see.
Speaker 2 (00:42):
Where we're at.
Speaker 1 (00:43):
What makes Puka so good?
Speaker 2 (00:46):
How would you answer that?
Speaker 1 (00:48):
A lot of things?
Speaker 3 (00:49):
Yeah, I agree, I think playstyle, toughness, demeanor, you know,
I mean you just see the improvement that he's made.
But I mean when you look at the aggressive hands
through the catch point, the ability to be able to
create separation, create after the catch, you know, being being
at your best in the most you know, pivotal moments.
You know, he's doing everything that you want and think,
(01:12):
like Matthew said after the game, I think his play
style is exactly what we're looking for. I think it
rubs off on the whole team. We've got a lot
of guys that play that way, and guys can go
ahead and hit mute on one of those zooms in
the background too. But I'm just messing with the artists.
But no, he's He's amazing, and I just love the mindset.
I love him as a human being more importantly, but
(01:35):
you know, just you know, I think the simplest things
you look for in a receiver get open and catch
the football. He's doing that at an incredibly high rate.
And then what he does after the balls in his
hands is really it's it's special stuff. And in a
lot of instances, because of the way he competes without
the ball, it helps him in some of those instances
as well.
Speaker 1 (01:55):
We've talked about his toughness in terms of being able
to come back into a game after injury. Well you
talk about after the catch, what he does with his body.
Can you just kind of explain why that's unique to him?
Speaker 3 (02:08):
You know, I think the people that would be best
able to articulate it would be.
Speaker 2 (02:11):
The ones trying to tackle him.
Speaker 3 (02:12):
You know, I just know this, there's a feel that
he has on game day that, man, this guy's taking
his game to a different level. And you know, I
don't even think you can appreciate it when you're watching
it on film unless you're physically present or actually trying to,
you know, feel what that.
Speaker 2 (02:28):
Feels like in the moment. And he's a grown man.
Speaker 3 (02:32):
He plays the game the right way, and man, I
just think the way that his spirit is competitiveness. We
have a lot of guys like that, but I think
the most excited I saw him yesterday was.
Speaker 2 (02:42):
For two two at well making that play.
Speaker 3 (02:43):
You know, you talk about a guy that enjoys his
teammate successes and just has a great just he's got
a great vibe to himself. He's he's outstanding and he
and he has been a catalyst for you know what
we've done this first month without a doubt.
Speaker 1 (02:58):
Thank you, You're welcome.
Speaker 4 (03:02):
Just a quick follow up question on Steve.
Speaker 5 (03:03):
Is there anything in terms of checkpoints or landmarks that
he still has to hit from a rehab standpoint before
he can go.
Speaker 3 (03:09):
Yeah, I think it's just how he feels, you know,
And I think a part part of that is his
communication to us, talking with Reggie, and then the evaluation
of what he looks like, you know, relative to being
able to go and be the Steve that that we
know and that's been a really good player for us
the last few years.
Speaker 5 (03:25):
And then Matthew's at or near the top and several
passing categories statistically just through the first you know, four
weeks here. What have you seen from him that's allowed
to play at a level that I know you're already
accustomed to the scene, but just compared to those.
Speaker 2 (03:39):
Numbers, Yeah, I think you know.
Speaker 3 (03:41):
And I don't misunderstand what I'm saying. I've never been
a stats guy, you know. I'm interested in one play
at a time. Are you playing in the timing rhythm,
you know, the accuracy, anticipation getting the ball where it is,
and he's done a great job of.
Speaker 2 (03:54):
That, Stu.
Speaker 3 (03:55):
And I think in a lot of instances, you know,
some of his I thought he's played you know really well.
I think you've seen the field well I think that
you show me a great quarterback, I'll show you a
guy that has some challenging snaps in the a how
do we respond?
Speaker 2 (04:07):
And nobody does it better than him.
Speaker 3 (04:09):
I thought he made some key critical plays at the
most opportune moments yesterday. You know, for him to recognize
some of the different looks and be able to get
the ball where it goes is a real advantage that
we don't take for granted.
Speaker 2 (04:22):
You know, he's he is. You know, it's already well known.
Speaker 3 (04:26):
I don't think anybody will be surprised when he was
putting a gold jacket on, you know, but this guy
loves playing. I mean, I know he's know when he's
ended up trying to you know, act like he can't
run anymore. When you watch out fast he was running
after two two at Wells touchdowns. So he's got more
in the tank than he's got or than he's acting
like when he's taken off on some of these scrambles.
Speaker 2 (04:45):
But I love.
Speaker 3 (04:46):
Everything the guy's about, and I feel really grateful to
be able to do this with him Stu and uh
And he played outstanding, and he played his best in
the most important moments. You know, the two minute drive
at the end of the half, the two drives that
we had to have at the end of the game,
and then ultimately orchestrating a good four minute operation where
Kiren has two good runs and then we're able to
take two knees.
Speaker 2 (05:06):
There's nothing more beautiful than that. Thank you appreciate it.
You're welcome year.
Speaker 6 (05:13):
Hey, Sean. With the way that you guys have neutralized
I guess Sakwon Barkley and Jonathan Taylor the last couple
of games, is is this kind of what you envisioned
in terms when you guys were adding Puna and Landman
in terms of run defense.
Speaker 2 (05:29):
Yeah, I mean it's huge.
Speaker 3 (05:30):
I mean these are these are two of the premiere backs,
and like I said to you yesterday, oh here we
go with a guy that is equally as dangerous as
a runner and a receiver that we're playing on Thursday night.
So I think our defense has done a really good
job of neutralizing two of the best players in this league. Obviously,
there were some instances that you know, we got the
there was some penalties on that play that got called back,
(05:52):
but some good learning ops for us in terms of
being able to you know, finish all the way through
the ech with the whistle, with tackling. But I've been
really pleased, and I think Gift Smith and you know, Drew
Wilkins and Joe Caniglio, they do such a great job
with our fronts, you know, g Money, with our inside backers,
and Chris Overall and Aubrey and Beek and coach Harris,
you know, really just our defensive staff as a whole,
(06:13):
and then ultimately the players bring it to life. I've
been really pleased with them the last couple of weeks
as it relates to what you're asking against.
Speaker 2 (06:19):
Two excellent runners, two excellent schemes that had.
Speaker 3 (06:22):
Some different flavors to it, but both really presented a
lot of challenges, and I thought our defense was a
key and critical factor.
Speaker 2 (06:29):
And two good performances the last two weeks.
Speaker 6 (06:32):
I know you're, you know, just starting to dive into
the forty nine ers or doing it quickly, I guess.
But what are you seeing, you know with this version?
Is this is this kind of the same type of group?
Is this a team that's evolved? What's kind of your
first impressions?
Speaker 3 (06:47):
Yeah, it'd be It'd be probably premature for me to
get too much into the weeds.
Speaker 2 (06:51):
Here's what I do know. Anytime that you've got, you know,
a team.
Speaker 3 (06:56):
Led by Kyle, they're gonna be tough on both sides
line of scrimmage. Obviously, Robert has a great influence, and
they look like they've played really well defensively, they found
ways to win football games. Haven't had a chance to
get into the Jacksonville game yet, but nobody has more
respect for this group than I do. We know what
a great challenge it's gonna be. But that's what you
love about this league is every single week there's great challenges,
(07:20):
you know, But this is the forty nine Ers, the
team that plays tough and physical on both sides of
a line of scrimmage. There they challenge you a lot
of ways schematically, and then they've got some really special
players that elevate those around them. And that's what I
would imagine I'm going to see on the tape as well.
Speaker 6 (07:35):
And then finally we you know, we've all seen how
the forty nine Ers fans love to come to so far,
do you anticipate that things might be turning a bit
in your favor in terms of rams fans kind of
neutralize neutralizing that element.
Speaker 2 (07:54):
Yeah, your home game.
Speaker 3 (07:55):
Hey, you know, we certainly hope so I think, you know,
they've obviously got a great fan you know, I blame
my grandpa for that, you know, you know a lot
of the success they had in the early years. But
I've loved the home atmospheres we've had this year. You know,
I look at the Texans and yesterday's game, I certainly
felt our crowd. I thought it was an advantage in
an edge to us, and I'm looking forward to seeing,
(08:16):
you know, as many Rams fans come out and support
us on Thursday night. And you know, forty nine ers
always travel well. But I'm hopeful and optimistic.
Speaker 2 (08:25):
Gary, Thanks very much, Welcome, Adam, Thank Sean A.
Speaker 7 (08:31):
Kello before his injury, was your corner who would line
up against those bigger physical receivers into two weeks in
his absence. How would you kind of grade out how
your cornerback room has held up without him.
Speaker 3 (08:42):
Yeah, I think, uh, here's the first thing I would say.
I think you look at it. You know, Kell's a
stunt and I was really pleased and everything that Akello
had done and even going back to the previous two
years and then a way that he had started off,
and like I said, I think we feel really fortunate
that we've got some good depth. I think the Kobe
Durantz played really well. I think Forbes has had his
moments and he's really learning, you know, a lot of
(09:04):
things as we continue to grow with him and support him.
And can't say enough about the job that Aubrey and
those guys do of continuing to watch a guy that
man has some really cool gifts and is going to
continue to just get better and better the way he
approaches it. And sometimes you learn the best from some
challenging moments. But I think the Kobe Durant's been really good,
and I think Darius has had two good weeks the
(09:24):
last couple of weeks. You know, obviously AJ Brown a
week ago made some great plays, but you know, I
thought those guys did a nice job playing their best
and the most important moments. Yesterday, I thought a rush
was a real factor where Jones had to get the
ball out of his hand a little bit quicker.
Speaker 2 (09:39):
You know.
Speaker 3 (09:40):
So I thought those guys were solid, and I thought,
you know, Aubrey did an excellent job of feeling out
a good rotation as the game kind of unfolded and
we'll see what that looks like for this week.
Speaker 7 (09:50):
We talk a lot about quarterbacks and receivers developing relationships
and year one, But when you have a receiver QB
combo like Puka and Matthew who are in year three, Now,
what does that amount of time together allow you to
kind of like allow them to explore in terms of
like how their relationship and dynamic can grow.
Speaker 3 (10:10):
Yeah, I just think there's an understanding of I think
they see the game through the same lens, you know,
and I think, you know, repetitions the mother of learning,
and I think it's also the mother of being able
to build trust through different experiences. They've had a lot
of accumulated reps together, you know, where they're able to
be on the same page. I think there's a ton
of trust that Puka has in Matthew in terms of,
(10:30):
you know, where the ball is going to be, where
is he putting it, why is he putting it there?
Speaker 2 (10:35):
I think there's an understanding of the.
Speaker 3 (10:36):
Types of things that they like versus different coverage contours,
and so there's just a ton of trust. There's a
ton of you know, rapport that those two have had
that's been built up over the last couple of years,
as you alluded to, you know, and it's two great
players that are bringing some really cool stuff to life,
and you know it's fun to watch.
Speaker 7 (10:55):
And then like, what is the key to preparing for
these Thursday games? Like as a coach staff, like what
are the like not to go into trade secrets, but like,
how have you kind of learned to prepare for these
short notes?
Speaker 3 (11:06):
I think you have to be decisive, you know, you
have to be able to make quick decisions, make sure
you understand where you're at, you know, what, what's the
opponent doing. What are going to be the best ways
to make sure that there's clarity for our players, but
getting their bodies turned over for Thursday and then ultimately
giving them a plan that allows them to go you know,
have you know some some things that we try to
be able to give them advantages but not overload them
(11:29):
with information because everything's accelerated in a short week, so,
you know, clarity, decisiveness, allowing guys to feel like they
have that peace of mind and they're mentally and physically
as fresh as they can possibly be. Those are some
of the key things we try to focus on. You
don't have time to overthink things, so you have to,
you know, make quick decisions.
Speaker 7 (11:47):
Thanks Sean, You're welcome.
Speaker 2 (11:49):
Bruh Co.
Speaker 8 (11:54):
What was your thoughts on Disaster Stewart's performance last night.
Speaker 2 (11:57):
I thought he was solid.
Speaker 3 (11:57):
You know, he played a little over twenty snaps. I
thought he did a solid job on some of the
early downs. I thought he did a nice job in
some of the known rush situations. Could have maybe drawn
a hold on one of the great rushes that he
that he ended up having, and then you know, we'd
used them a little bit in some different coverages, and
I thought he did an excellent job with some feel underneath,
ended up rallying to a checkdown where he kind of
was sticky on Jonathan Taylor.
Speaker 2 (12:20):
You know, he's a stud. He's just getting better and better,
you know.
Speaker 3 (12:23):
I think Joe Caniglio does such a good job with
that group as a whole, and I was really pleased
with really all four.
Speaker 2 (12:28):
Of those guys.
Speaker 3 (12:29):
But Josiah is only going to continue to get better
and more comfortable and love.
Speaker 2 (12:33):
Where he's at. And I thought he was a big
time contributor yesterday for.
Speaker 8 (12:37):
Us, going back to earlier earlier in the game, when
you went forward on fourth and one, that's your own
forty five? Why did you want to be so aggressive?
And on why that play called the quarterbacks.
Speaker 3 (12:46):
Neat Yeah, I mean felt like we had a good look.
It was less than a yard. That's a play that
I expect us to be able to make.
Speaker 8 (12:53):
And ask question is when it comes to the defensive secondary,
especially the safeties, has there been some thing that you've
seen for them this year that you weren't expecting through
this process?
Speaker 2 (13:04):
You know, I don't know that.
Speaker 3 (13:05):
It's not anything I wasn't expecting. I think, you know,
you look at it. I think there's there's a lot
of continuity. You know, you look at the guys that
are playing the most, our top four safeties. You know,
when you're looking at Q, you're looking at Cam, You're
looking at Kitch, you know, and then you're looking at Tank.
Those guys have all played. You know, they're really comfortable.
I think Beacon Aubury do such a good job. I
(13:25):
was so pleased for Cam Curl. I thought Camp Kitchens
had some playoffs and you know, he's so hard on himself,
he'll want to make some of those picks, but man,
he had some good concept triggers Quinton Lake is so
valuable and man Tank McCollough just does such an excellent
job being able to play you know, some different roles.
What a play made on the screen where he's able
to you know, kind of fight through a knife, through
traffic and make a great play on Taylor. But Cam
(13:47):
Curle making two big picks. I thought he was great
and run support. Nothing really surprising, Just really proud and
pleased with the way that that group has continued to progress.
Speaker 2 (13:57):
Thank you, You're welcome.
Speaker 9 (13:58):
Nate.
Speaker 10 (14:01):
Hey Sean, I feel like each week we asked you
about the split between Kyraen and Blake and kind of
how that shakes out. Just how do you kind of
assess how that went and what's your general philosophy between
you know, feeding a player who's hot in the moment
like Kyen was early in that game versus you know,
making it a committee and getting other guys involved.
Speaker 2 (14:20):
Yeah. I think, you know, I think it was good yesterday.
I think there was some instances.
Speaker 3 (14:24):
You know, I think when you run the football, those
two guys they do a great job, you know, but
running the football is you know, football is the greatest
team sport that there is, and so you know, I
think the feel I think the important thing for us
is to get both guys involved.
Speaker 2 (14:37):
You know, certainly, if there's a.
Speaker 3 (14:38):
Hot hand, I think that's something that the situation dictates.
But I think we do want to try to be
disciplined and making sure that there's a lot of trust
in both of those guys to be able to play
and not be shortsighted.
Speaker 2 (14:50):
And in the moment.
Speaker 3 (14:52):
You know what, I think my favorite thing, and I
told this to him, one of my favorite things about
Kayen Williams is he's at his best after a moment
where man I.
Speaker 2 (14:59):
Put him in a terrible position.
Speaker 3 (15:00):
I don't think that was his fault at all on
the one fumble, and just you watch his response and
his resolve, and I thought it was important to give
him an opportunity to be able to continue to play
through that, and he just he answered the bell in
a big way.
Speaker 2 (15:12):
He's just I love him so much.
Speaker 3 (15:14):
I love Blake too, and I thought they both did
a good job within the framework of what they were asked.
There'll be some opportunities where let's be a little bit
better turns of Matthew and Blake being connected on some
of the checkdowns, But I think you want to get
him both involved.
Speaker 2 (15:28):
I thought yesterday was good.
Speaker 3 (15:29):
And then I think it's important to understand if there's
a hot hand, you go with it. But it's also
important to be able to get both guys involved.
Speaker 2 (15:36):
If that answers your question, Nate, yep.
Speaker 10 (15:39):
And then the way you guys finish that game as
a passing game was obviously pretty electric. Not just a
big play to too too, but Saffron finished nine to
ten just when you watched it back, what do you
feel like kind of got that group going even more
as the game went on.
Speaker 3 (15:55):
Yeah, I thought he saw the field well. I thought
he got the ball where the coverage dictated. I thought
we protected, you know, so I think you know it
was you know, it always starts with you know, Matthew
did a great job of orchestrating, you know, a really
two good scoring drives, seeing the field, taking what the
defense gave him. You know, you got a little bit
more regulated rushes where I thought our line battled and
(16:17):
gave him time to be able to get through progressions.
And so, you know, just just really good execution by
Matthew at the critical moments. And you know, and then
for I and to to to be able to connect
on that one play that was really special and uh,
you know, an excellent job by him recognizing you know,
you know, the the you know, the coverage that they
were in in that particular instance.
Speaker 2 (16:43):
Awesome, We got Grint and Dennis all right, Hey, great.
Speaker 4 (16:49):
Hey, when you have two receivers who are studs, elite
pro Bowl level guys, who get about ninety percent of
your targets from two receivers, what do you say to
the other receivers to stay ready for a play like
two two made or a guy like Jordan who's played
like two thirds of year snaps and that's six targets.
Speaker 3 (17:05):
Yeah, I think it's important that you know, first of all,
we feel really fortunate. I do think it's important that
the ball, the distribution of the ball where we're cognizant
of that and still getting those guys involved, and you
just you know, you continue to you know, let those
guys know, Hey, where are those examples? You just never
know when that moment's going to arise. But what a
cool credit to to to. I think you talk about
(17:26):
the enjoyment of other success and watching how happy his
teammates were for him and him being ready in the
moment when ends up winning on a high angle cut
versus a man coverage, makes his guy fall and ends
up having the juice to be able to finish, you know,
with the post player in pursuit, and.
Speaker 2 (17:41):
You know, I think you just keep you know, you
keep it real with guys.
Speaker 3 (17:43):
You know, we're going to try to continue to get
those guys involved, talking about you know, Pooka and DeVante,
but I think it's also important to be able to
get your other, you know, three eligibles that are on
the grass for you when you throw the football, whether
that's your back's tight ends or your other receiver, And
so you know, we're cognizant of that. I think you
want to get those guys involved, but also make sure
that you know, we're balanced and uh, you know, and
(18:04):
that's something that we're aware of and you know, and
will continue to try to monitor and figure out ultimately
what's best for our football team and for our offense
to move the ball and score points.
Speaker 4 (18:14):
That yeah, was that was that?
Speaker 8 (18:16):
Jared?
Speaker 2 (18:18):
No, you go ahead, I didn't mean to cut you off.
Speaker 4 (18:20):
Was that Jared versus best game of the season? What'd
you think I got? Player? He ran over the center that.
Speaker 2 (18:24):
Was awesome, man.
Speaker 3 (18:25):
I mean you talk about timing it up with the
play clock going down, it looked like a trip to
me potentially.
Speaker 2 (18:30):
But uh, I thought he was awesome, you know.
Speaker 3 (18:32):
I think really the last couple of weeks, the energy,
pre snap demeanor, the vibe that he's brought to our group,
I think he's been excellent. I think it's been a
reflection of the way that he's approached his preparation throughout
the course of the week. You know, him having an
ownership and an understanding, you know, Joe and the defensive
coaching staff with Coach Shula, you know, being able to
(18:54):
you know, earn the right for our guys to get
into some of those positions versus a stud Yesterday, I
thought it was his best game year for sure.
Speaker 9 (19:01):
You got it.
Speaker 2 (19:02):
Wrapping with you, Dennis.
Speaker 9 (19:03):
Okay, hey, coach, how are you going this morning?
Speaker 2 (19:06):
Good? How are you Dennis?
Speaker 9 (19:07):
We're doing great. Considering what happened in Philadelphia, how important
was it for Josh was confidence to come right back
and line up and kick those two field goals?
Speaker 2 (19:16):
Yeah?
Speaker 3 (19:17):
I thought it was huge, you know, And I thought
I thought our protection. You know, sometimes some challenging moments
can bring out the best in you when you have
the right kinds of people. And it's really proud of
that group as a whole. I think you watch, I mean,
and that that unit was a really good field goal
rush operation. You know, they strained, they tried to attack
our protections, and I thought we did a really good job.
You know, I give a ton of credit you know,
(19:38):
to Chase and Ben and then ultimately our players being
able to execute based on the things that we focused on.
We were automatic on the extra points in the field goals.
I thought Josh was really good. Thought Alex and Ethan
did a nice job with the snaphole, the timing of it,
the trajectory of the kicks, and then you know, Josh
does a great job in those kickoffs and he saved one,
you know, on that one return.
Speaker 2 (19:58):
That popped out.
Speaker 3 (19:59):
Looked like a post player coming out of the middle
of the field to be able to knock the returner
out about So Josh.
Speaker 2 (20:04):
Had an excellent game.
Speaker 3 (20:06):
Not surprised because he's shown that he is a resilient
mentally tough guy. But I think it's a credit to
him and really, you know, the the total group of
being able to respond after.
Speaker 2 (20:17):
Some of the things that that you know, forced us
to be able to really go.
Speaker 3 (20:20):
Back into the lab and and uh and really uh,
you know, lean in and address some of the things
that need to be addressed.
Speaker 2 (20:26):
And that's going to be a consistent approach for us
as we move forward.
Speaker 9 (20:30):
And as a follow up over of course of the
last four weeks, what has been the effort that you
seen from your ball club.
Speaker 2 (20:38):
Yeah, I've loved it in this group.
Speaker 3 (20:40):
I've been pleased with it, you know, and I think
you know, you're always continuing to try to take steps
in the right direction. But what the tip What does
the tape say in terms of the effort, the competitive character,
the competitive stamina that we have. Are we relentless? What
does it really look like? And I've seen that, and uh,
you know that's going to continue to be something we
want to lean into.
Speaker 2 (20:57):
Dennis, Okay, thank you, coach, You're welcome.
Speaker 1 (21:01):
Thanks coach.
Speaker 2 (21:01):
All right, thank you guys,
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Does hearing about a true crime case always leave you scouring the internet for the truth behind the story? Dive into your next mystery with Crime Junkie. Every Monday, join your host Ashley Flowers as she unravels all the details of infamous and underreported true crime cases with her best friend Brit Prawat. From cold cases to missing persons and heroes in our community who seek justice, Crime Junkie is your destination for theories and stories you won’t hear anywhere else. Whether you're a seasoned true crime enthusiast or new to the genre, you'll find yourself on the edge of your seat awaiting a new episode every Monday. If you can never get enough true crime... Congratulations, you’ve found your people. Follow to join a community of Crime Junkies! Crime Junkie is presented by audiochuck Media Company.
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If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.