Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay talks about his plans for the kicking operation going forward, cornerback Emmanuel Forbes Jr.'s first interception, and wide receiver Puka Nacua's performance on Sunday after returning from his injury.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
Speaker 1 (00:00):
Hey, Sean just wanted to check if Puko will practice
on Wednesday and if there are any injuries.
Speaker 2 (00:05):
From last night.
Speaker 3 (00:06):
Yeah, so guys are still you know, I appreciate you
guys being able to go earlier. Unfortunately, there's going to
be not any medical information or updates different than yesterday.
He was going to get a scan today, Adam, to
just kind of confirm where we're at with those ribs.
But I was, you know, I feel optimistic from some
of my conversations with Reggie in regards to where we're
potentially heading. But I will have more information for you
(00:28):
on Wednesday, and appreciate you guys adjusting with me earlier.
I apologize for not having more information like we're accustomed
to when we do this a little bit later.
Speaker 1 (00:38):
And just as a point of clarity from last night,
I know you said you have confidence in Josh Carty.
Will that preclude you from working out another kicker this week?
Speaker 2 (00:45):
Knows, there's a lot of things that we're going to
look into.
Speaker 3 (00:48):
That's kind of what's occupied the majority of the morning
is figuring out, Okay, hey, what are the best courses
of action for us to be able to have some
more tangible examples of you know, getting this operation and
the direction that we want, and I do I hold
true to the you know, the belief and.
Speaker 2 (01:05):
The confidence I have in Josh.
Speaker 3 (01:07):
But we're evaluating all parts of, you know, where we
go with this operation, and and I think you guys
will see as we're continuously working through that conversations between
Chase Coach Kott week less. You know, our group as
a whole, it's all geared towards solution oriented moves and
decisions that help us be more consistent in the overall
(01:29):
operation of that going through the uprights with our field
goal operation, and so whatever we think is going to
be best, you'll see that reflected.
Speaker 2 (01:36):
In the decisions.
Speaker 3 (01:37):
And then I think once we reconnect on Wednesday, after
we're able to be able to kind of make some
of those decisions and coinciding moves or different things like that,
that'll be able to be able to allow me to
provide some more tangible dialogue for you guys as a
as a you know, as far as you know what
we decided, where we're headed and what's ultimately going to
(01:58):
be in alignment with trying to be able to get
the thing solved, which is my only goal. And uh,
and I know we're collectively in alignment.
Speaker 1 (02:06):
With with you know, the multi faceted issues in the
kicking game. Just what if you thought about how Chase
Blackburn has handled these issues and the special teams in general.
Speaker 3 (02:14):
This, Yeah, I think what you realize is, you know,
you know, I think there's been a lot of positives.
Speaker 2 (02:19):
I think there's a lot of.
Speaker 3 (02:19):
Stuff that goes on behind the scenes, leaning in with
the added emphasis on the protection whi's been improved.
Speaker 2 (02:25):
The timing of our overall operation.
Speaker 3 (02:28):
And so I've been impressed at him, you know, I've
been I've been pleased with both he and Coach Catt week.
I've been pleased with a lot of the guys responses.
Speaker 2 (02:36):
And and here's the thing.
Speaker 3 (02:37):
Too, what what I will say that you realize is
that everybody wants to get this right.
Speaker 2 (02:43):
That's what you can feel.
Speaker 3 (02:45):
You know, there's not a single player, there's not a
single coach that hasn't done everything within our control to
try to be able to consistently get this thing executed.
The enemy does have a say, you know, but but
our goal is is to be able to just get
this figured out. And it's been challenging it's stretched in
ways that you know has been unique. But I've been
been pleased without Chase and coach kyt Weeke have handled
(03:08):
it and how they've navigated it, and you know, and
then ultimately we're looking for consistent overall execution of that
phase and and that's clearly what we've been lacking, and
there's no running away from that.
Speaker 1 (03:20):
He took a patient approach with Emmanuel Forbes after adding
him last year. So just what was it like for
you and your coaching staff to see him have the
performance he did yesterday, especially in the fourth quarter with
the two third down stops in the interception.
Speaker 2 (03:34):
That's big, Adam.
Speaker 3 (03:35):
You know, I think the thing that's cool is is
I don't think anybody would be surprised because this is
a culmination of the work and the consistent approach that
he's put in on the Monday through Saturdays, and then
it translates in terms of, you know, showing up on
Sunday where he's given himself a best the best chance
for a lot of that stuff.
Speaker 2 (03:53):
To come to life.
Speaker 3 (03:54):
You know, I give Aubrey a ton of credit for
the relationship he's developed really not exclusive to a manual,
but really with all of it players in our team
in general. I mean him as the assistant head coach.
You know, he does such a great job for us.
But I think, you know, I'm really happy for Emanual
and I'm looking forward to watching him build. I thought
some of the plays that I was most excited about
watching him come up and run support, putting his face
(04:15):
on people, crack replacing, you know, obviously had some really
good examples of some really good competitive cover jobs against
some premier players in this league. And it's cool to
be able to see him, you know, get his hands
on the ball and be able to make that catch.
And I've been I was really pleased with the Kobe
Durant as well. So I think our corners have really
played well these last few weeks, and we're hopeful to
(04:35):
be able to get Darius Williams back in the mix.
And thought Roger McCrary showed his overall athleticism on teams
and I thought he.
Speaker 2 (04:42):
Did a really nice job throughout the course of the week.
Speaker 3 (04:45):
You know where he'll be able to add that depth
and you know, figure out how to be a factor
for us, And you know, we're excited about him as well.
Speaker 2 (04:52):
Thanks Sean, You're welcome.
Speaker 4 (04:53):
Stu Hey Sean. How has twelve and thirteen personnel evolved
from something that was maybe more matchup specific in the
season two? Now something that's part of this offense is
identity and within that what role has Terrence Ferguson's growth
and development played in making that possible?
Speaker 2 (05:10):
Yeah?
Speaker 3 (05:11):
I think the cool thing is organically and then you know,
sometimes by nature of you know, all right, let's take advantage.
I think one of the cool things that I've witnessed
from our defense as a whole is everybody that's up
on game days has a role, and our guys have
done a great job of being able to figure out,
all right, where are those opportunities to create authentic value
where guys can really feel like, all right, I can
(05:32):
have that ownership and my role is important, it's valuable,
and I'm going to maximize that. And we're getting the
most out of the forty eight guys that have a
jersey on game day, and I think, you know, we're
starting to do that offensively, and those guys have earned it.
I think Scooter Huff does such a good jobs too
with that group as a whole. Obviously, we know the
importance of you know, Tyler Higbee, Kobe Parkinson, David.
Speaker 2 (05:53):
Salin just continuing to do his thing.
Speaker 3 (05:54):
And I think when you've got three veteran examples in
that room, you know, Terrence is a stud and I
think there's a lot of guys that you know that
the enjoyment for each other's success, especially you know, for
this team, but that room in particular is really cool,
can present some different things. You feel Terrence, you know,
you know, huge third down catch and then a big
(06:14):
catch off of the play action where you know, got
some real rack. I thought he was maybe gonna come
out of that thing. It looked like, you know, but
it was a good explosive gain. And you know, I
think the you know the thing you guys hear me
say over and over repetitions the mother of learning. And
he's getting better and he's using those reps to grow.
And it's not exclusive to the plays that he makes
when the ball's in his hands. I mean, he's doing
some good stuff without the ball, learning how to be
(06:36):
a complete tight end. And I love that group and
I think, you know, we we've got to do a
good job of consistently figuring out how to utilize different
personnel groupings, and what's been cool for us is the
guys have leaned in.
Speaker 2 (06:48):
They've done an excellent job.
Speaker 3 (06:50):
You know, I give Scooter huff like I mentioned, a
ton of credit for us to be able to do
as many different things as we've done, particularly the last
two weeks, and it's obviously been very fruitful for our
offense as a whole, and I'm happy for those.
Speaker 2 (07:02):
Guys appreciate it.
Speaker 1 (07:04):
Thank you.
Speaker 2 (07:04):
Yeah, you got it, man.
Speaker 5 (07:06):
Gary.
Speaker 6 (07:08):
Oh hey, Sean, this uh, this isn't the first time,
you know, in your nine seasons that you have had
to deal with special teams issues, particularly kickers, either because
of injuries or performance or whatever. How is this situation similar,
How is it different? And what what do you learn
(07:28):
from you know, your previous experience navigating this kind of issue.
Speaker 2 (07:32):
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (07:32):
I think the biggest thing, I would say, Gary, and
a lot of the previous instances, I had to be
honest with myself of what kind of situations and spots
were we putting that group in. When you go back
a couple of years ago, we were attempting a ton
of fifty plus yard field goals. But all we're talking
about is it's a maker a miss and so you know,
I think what's a little bit different about this is,
(07:53):
you know, the I think that it's it's really the
amount of ones that we've missed and really the the
the you know, the low cation of where those attempts
are from. You know, you're talking about a lot of pats,
a lot of things that are under forty five yards
and then you look at, you know, just some of
the different things that are going on around the landscape
of the league. But I don't know that I've felt
like the consistency of these issues has been as prevalent as.
Speaker 2 (08:15):
What it's been.
Speaker 3 (08:17):
But I ultimately what I do know, Gary is is is.
Speaker 2 (08:20):
We're about solutions.
Speaker 3 (08:21):
We're about cultivating and creating the right atmosphere of the
vibe that gives our players a chance for successful outcomes.
And that's communication. That's an understanding of where is your
role within the one eleventh what are the things that
we need to do to be able to consistently execute
it on a consistent basis.
Speaker 2 (08:39):
And I think we've leaned in.
Speaker 3 (08:40):
And the thing that's hard is is that the reality
is is what you guys look at and what we
feel and this isn't a negative is that, Hey, the
goal is when that operation goes out there, either that
ball goes between the uprights or it doesn't. And if
it doesn't, it's a you know, it's considered a fail.
But that's not exclusive to the kicker.
Speaker 2 (08:58):
Or the holder, the snapper.
Speaker 3 (09:00):
You know, there's eleven guys that you're relying on for
that operation to consistently be able to make extra points
or make field goals. And I think that, you know,
we've got to be able to look at and say,
all right, what are those things that have consistently not
gotten you know, done, or where is the biggest area
that we need to be able to improve to give
(09:20):
us a chance for that group to consistently execute. But
what I do know, Gary, is that patience leaning in,
you know, being able to provide real feedback, but also
you know, with the right vibe and the right clarity
for guys to go execute is the most important thing.
Speaker 2 (09:35):
And that's all I'm gonna continue to do.
Speaker 3 (09:37):
I can't go back and change what happened with that
operation yesterday.
Speaker 2 (09:41):
All we can do is control how we move forward.
Speaker 3 (09:43):
Sorry, these lights are brutal, but yeah, timers. But anyways,
hopefully that answers your question. I don't know if it does.
Speaker 6 (09:53):
Gary, Yeah, And I know you know you're hesitanting. You're
not going to call anyone out particularly, any group out particular.
But I'm just wondering if you can enlighten us a
little bit about what the biggest issue maybe has been.
I mean, has it just been a collective thing or
one time it's this, one time it's the other, or it's.
Speaker 3 (10:14):
Well yeah, I mean you know, we'd have to look
at all of them, and we could sit there and
evaluate it. You want to sit in a film session
with me, man, you'll be bored real quick.
Speaker 2 (10:22):
But here's what I would say.
Speaker 3 (10:23):
The important thing is is it takes the snap. They'll
hold the kick in a certain timing, in trajectory, there's
a responsibility for the protection to be able to prevent
penetration or shorter edges. And if we are operating within
the timing that we expect the location of the snap
and then ultimately the kick gets up and the.
Speaker 2 (10:45):
Location is consistent. You know, those are the things.
Speaker 3 (10:48):
And if you really just look and you say, okay,
was the timing, there was the trajectory.
Speaker 2 (10:54):
How was the snap, how was the hold? Did that
allow Josh to be able to do what he was
capable of.
Speaker 3 (10:59):
Was there the protection good enough within the timing of
the operation. And so there's not one all encompassing issue.
You could look at the different ones, but there was
a couple things that And again I do I do
a respect and appreciate your question, but what I'm not
what I don't think movess forward is okay, hey, let's
talk about exactly what happened on this one.
Speaker 2 (11:21):
I think you guys can kind of look at it
and be able to draw your own conclusions.
Speaker 3 (11:25):
But those are the things that we're looking for consistently,
you know, and then if you do end up, you know,
be able to change up you know, the timing and
rhythm that you want to be able to snap the
ball at.
Speaker 2 (11:34):
We have to be in alignment and.
Speaker 3 (11:36):
Be able to execute that for all eleven to be
on the same page. And you know, that was one
of our issues yesterday was the timing of you know,
where we were not all in lockstep on that and
you know, and that can't happen and that was a
big reason why we weren't able to execute one of
the kicks.
Speaker 6 (11:52):
And then finally for me in regard to Pooka, how
do you feel like he came back yesterday and from
the ankle injury. And I know this is something we've
asked you before, but is there anything you can do
to prevent him from from suffering these kinds.
Speaker 3 (12:10):
Of I feel sick, you know, because you know that
that fourth down situation where he's getting kind of a
side shot and he's so good at that, and that's
such an important situation, and you're saying, damn, you know,
you leave him susceptible to a great player pursuing from
an inside out location that gives him a good shot.
Speaker 2 (12:26):
So that's not on anything him. That's more on the
play call.
Speaker 3 (12:30):
And unfortunately, you're like, man, I feel like this is
the best chance to be able to get us a
yard because of what he thought he is, and you
know the structure we were anticipating, and you know, I'm
hopeful that he'll be all right. He is such a tough,
physical player. I thought he was outstanding Gary. He felt
his presence right away from the first drive. I mean,
you know, even something so subtle as we didn't block
a screen really well in the perimeter, but he breaks
(12:52):
the tackle and might have scored and then ends up
leading to Higbee punching in where you get good momentum.
So you know, he's he's very special for what he
provides for a football team is competitive, toughness, his ability
to do a lot of different things that opens him up.
And obviously it was a great play he in Matthew
connected on down the field. But you know, just the efficiency,
the toughness, the physicality, he was awesome. And you know,
(13:16):
I'm kicking myself, you know about putting him in that
spot where he sustained that you know, shot to the
ribs and you know, you always kind of you're there's
there's occupational hazards in this game, but you're always trying
to pick and choose and make those decisions that are
best for the team also you know, being smart.
Speaker 2 (13:32):
And it's one.
Speaker 3 (13:33):
Of those deals you look back in hindsight and you
got to ask yourself about it as a you know,
as a coach.
Speaker 2 (13:38):
Thanks very much, you're welcome, and we'll wrap up with Sarah.
Speaker 5 (13:42):
Hey, Sean, I'm with the trade deadline tomorrow. Do you
anticipate making any moves?
Speaker 3 (13:46):
I don't think so, you know, I think you know,
we're more leaning into you know, figuring out what's the
right direction with this specific phase you know of our
football team with the field goal up, you know, and
what's the best way to move forward there.
Speaker 2 (13:59):
But again, like what I here's what I've learned to
say to you guys.
Speaker 3 (14:01):
You know that that and I mean that truthfully, there
hasn't been a lot of conversations.
Speaker 2 (14:06):
There's not a lot of examples or things that do
come up.
Speaker 3 (14:09):
But what you never say is never because Gary will
hold me accountable to it.
Speaker 2 (14:13):
And say you didn't you know, So I'm just kidding Gary.
Speaker 3 (14:16):
You know I love you, but you know, it hasn't
been something our our Our main dialogue has revolved around
our football team and the immediate address, you know, issues
that we feel like we need to address, and there
just really hasn't been a lot of dialogue.
Speaker 5 (14:29):
You know.
Speaker 2 (14:29):
We had some dialogue around the corner spot.
Speaker 3 (14:30):
We obviously ended up landing on Roger McCreery, which I've
been pleased with that. But outside of that, you know,
I mean, teams talk and there's calls and conversations all
the time, but nothing that would lead me to believe
that anything is imminent or more it's it's way less
likely that anything occurs for us at this point.
Speaker 5 (14:49):
Early in the season, Davante and Matthew talked about how
they were still working on timing and building that chemistry
and how a lot of that comes just through reps.
Speaker 2 (14:57):
Yep, what's it like.
Speaker 5 (14:58):
As a play caller to see that chemistry develop as
the season has gone on.
Speaker 2 (15:02):
It's awesome, you know.
Speaker 3 (15:03):
I mean, you got two of the right kind of
guys that are just getting on the same page, and
you're watching a lot of the reps. You know that
you guys just see what the you know, the final
you know, presentation is on Sundays. But there's a lot
of things that have gone on in the last few weeks,
especially where you felt like it was training in the
right direction. I've said it over and over again and
I'll continue to say, you know, we're looking for our
(15:23):
practice preparation performance, you know, to be able to equal
game reality.
Speaker 2 (15:27):
That's why you practice to try.
Speaker 3 (15:28):
To mimic and emulate game like situations while minimizing the
risk of injury. And we've seen a lot of great
examples of good practice reps that have then translated into
the game becoming you know, real reps that you're saying,
Man and a hio House did a great presentation last
week of showing, hey, is what we did in practice, Boom,
look how it came to life against Jacksonville, you know,
(15:48):
in the actual game, and we'll be able to do
a lot of the same things from this past week
into what they did, you know, moving forward, and it's
it's really fun to see, and you.
Speaker 2 (15:58):
Know, it's a real credit to both those guys.
Speaker 5 (16:01):
Has there been a play in practice that you saw
that you that I guess got you excited or made
you realize like how good this connection could be.
Speaker 3 (16:08):
There's a lot of plays that get me excited, Sarah.
I think it's just watching. What I get excited about
is not the surprising connection that I'm witnessing, but the dialogue,
the communication, the rapport and their relationship just organically build.
Speaker 2 (16:21):
Because you got two.
Speaker 3 (16:22):
Special players that'll be you know, when their careers are over,
they'll put gold jackets on, but they're so present, they're
so interested in trying to influence and effect positive change
for this team, and their work is starting to show
and pay, you know. Main you know, big dividends for
us in these games, and those are the expectations that
we have moving forward in and neither one of them
(16:42):
ever gets complacent, which is cool, But there's I think
it's just the consistent approach that I've seen from those
guys that really has been consistent throughout the year, and
and now you're starting to see, you know, success is
never linear.
Speaker 2 (16:55):
You know, these things always go through the ebbs and flows.
Speaker 3 (16:57):
And I've watched these guys navigate, you know, some really
cool things to be in a cool spot, and you know,
and you've got to continue to earn that confidence through
the work, not the words, and those guys have done that.
Speaker 5 (17:08):
And then this is not your next game, but the
next time you're at SOFI Stadium, Cooper Cup will be
across the other sideline. What emotions or reaction do you
anticipate to seeing him play against you guys in that
stadium is one of Super Bowl.
Speaker 3 (17:21):
I think, just a lot of love, a lot of appreciation,
you know, for you know, the the amount of time
that we spent, the relationship. You know, this game, you know,
has brought me so much, and the most important thing
that's brought me is a lot of you know, special
people in my life that I've come across that have
changed my life and made me a better person. And
Cooper Cup is one of those guys. He's he's changed
(17:41):
my life for all the better because he was in it.
You know, obviously that was one of the most challenging
situations that you have to navigate as a head coach.
But the personal love, appreciation, the respect I have for
his body of work as a competitor as a player
is I mean, you know, I I could never sit
here and give you enough work words to truly reflect
(18:01):
the love.
Speaker 2 (18:02):
That I have for that human being.
Speaker 3 (18:03):
And and uh, you know, the time that we spent
together with our player coach relationship.
Speaker 2 (18:08):
Thank you, You're welcome. Thanks all right, Thanks guys,
Hey, Sean just wanted to check if Puko will practice
on Wednesday and if there are any injuries.
Speaker 2 (00:05):
From last night.
Speaker 3 (00:06):
Yeah, so guys are still you know, I appreciate you
guys being able to go earlier. Unfortunately, there's going to
be not any medical information or updates different than yesterday.
He was going to get a scan today, Adam, to
just kind of confirm where we're at with those ribs.
But I was, you know, I feel optimistic from some
of my conversations with Reggie in regards to where we're
potentially heading. But I will have more information for you
(00:28):
on Wednesday, and appreciate you guys adjusting with me earlier.
I apologize for not having more information like we're accustomed
to when we do this a little bit later.
Speaker 1 (00:38):
And just as a point of clarity from last night,
I know you said you have confidence in Josh Carty.
Will that preclude you from working out another kicker this week?
Speaker 2 (00:45):
Knows, there's a lot of things that we're going to
look into.
Speaker 3 (00:48):
That's kind of what's occupied the majority of the morning
is figuring out, Okay, hey, what are the best courses
of action for us to be able to have some
more tangible examples of you know, getting this operation and
the direction that we want, and I do I hold
true to the you know, the belief and.
Speaker 2 (01:05):
The confidence I have in Josh.
Speaker 3 (01:07):
But we're evaluating all parts of, you know, where we
go with this operation, and and I think you guys
will see as we're continuously working through that conversations between
Chase Coach Kott week less. You know, our group as
a whole, it's all geared towards solution oriented moves and
decisions that help us be more consistent in the overall
(01:29):
operation of that going through the uprights with our field
goal operation, and so whatever we think is going to
be best, you'll see that reflected.
Speaker 2 (01:36):
In the decisions.
Speaker 3 (01:37):
And then I think once we reconnect on Wednesday, after
we're able to be able to kind of make some
of those decisions and coinciding moves or different things like that,
that'll be able to be able to allow me to
provide some more tangible dialogue for you guys as a
as a you know, as far as you know what
we decided, where we're headed and what's ultimately going to
(01:58):
be in alignment with trying to be able to get
the thing solved, which is my only goal. And uh,
and I know we're collectively in alignment.
Speaker 1 (02:06):
With with you know, the multi faceted issues in the
kicking game. Just what if you thought about how Chase
Blackburn has handled these issues and the special teams in general.
Speaker 3 (02:14):
This, Yeah, I think what you realize is, you know,
you know, I think there's been a lot of positives.
Speaker 2 (02:19):
I think there's a lot of.
Speaker 3 (02:19):
Stuff that goes on behind the scenes, leaning in with
the added emphasis on the protection whi's been improved.
Speaker 2 (02:25):
The timing of our overall operation.
Speaker 3 (02:28):
And so I've been impressed at him, you know, I've
been I've been pleased with both he and Coach Catt week.
I've been pleased with a lot of the guys responses.
Speaker 2 (02:36):
And and here's the thing.
Speaker 3 (02:37):
Too, what what I will say that you realize is
that everybody wants to get this right.
Speaker 2 (02:43):
That's what you can feel.
Speaker 3 (02:45):
You know, there's not a single player, there's not a
single coach that hasn't done everything within our control to
try to be able to consistently get this thing executed.
The enemy does have a say, you know, but but
our goal is is to be able to just get
this figured out. And it's been challenging it's stretched in
ways that you know has been unique. But I've been
been pleased without Chase and coach kyt Weeke have handled
(03:08):
it and how they've navigated it, and you know, and
then ultimately we're looking for consistent overall execution of that
phase and and that's clearly what we've been lacking, and
there's no running away from that.
Speaker 1 (03:20):
He took a patient approach with Emmanuel Forbes after adding
him last year. So just what was it like for
you and your coaching staff to see him have the
performance he did yesterday, especially in the fourth quarter with
the two third down stops in the interception.
Speaker 2 (03:34):
That's big, Adam.
Speaker 3 (03:35):
You know, I think the thing that's cool is is
I don't think anybody would be surprised because this is
a culmination of the work and the consistent approach that
he's put in on the Monday through Saturdays, and then
it translates in terms of, you know, showing up on
Sunday where he's given himself a best the best chance
for a lot of that stuff.
Speaker 2 (03:53):
To come to life.
Speaker 3 (03:54):
You know, I give Aubrey a ton of credit for
the relationship he's developed really not exclusive to a manual,
but really with all of it players in our team
in general. I mean him as the assistant head coach.
You know, he does such a great job for us.
But I think, you know, I'm really happy for Emanual
and I'm looking forward to watching him build. I thought
some of the plays that I was most excited about
watching him come up and run support, putting his face
(04:15):
on people, crack replacing, you know, obviously had some really
good examples of some really good competitive cover jobs against
some premier players in this league. And it's cool to
be able to see him, you know, get his hands
on the ball and be able to make that catch.
And I've been I was really pleased with the Kobe
Durant as well. So I think our corners have really
played well these last few weeks, and we're hopeful to
(04:35):
be able to get Darius Williams back in the mix.
And thought Roger McCrary showed his overall athleticism on teams
and I thought he.
Speaker 2 (04:42):
Did a really nice job throughout the course of the week.
Speaker 3 (04:45):
You know where he'll be able to add that depth
and you know, figure out how to be a factor
for us, And you know, we're excited about him as well.
Speaker 2 (04:52):
Thanks Sean, You're welcome.
Speaker 4 (04:53):
Stu Hey Sean. How has twelve and thirteen personnel evolved
from something that was maybe more matchup specific in the
season two? Now something that's part of this offense is
identity and within that what role has Terrence Ferguson's growth
and development played in making that possible?
Speaker 2 (05:10):
Yeah?
Speaker 3 (05:11):
I think the cool thing is organically and then you know,
sometimes by nature of you know, all right, let's take advantage.
I think one of the cool things that I've witnessed
from our defense as a whole is everybody that's up
on game days has a role, and our guys have
done a great job of being able to figure out,
all right, where are those opportunities to create authentic value
where guys can really feel like, all right, I can
(05:32):
have that ownership and my role is important, it's valuable,
and I'm going to maximize that. And we're getting the
most out of the forty eight guys that have a
jersey on game day, and I think, you know, we're
starting to do that offensively, and those guys have earned it.
I think Scooter Huff does such a good jobs too
with that group as a whole. Obviously, we know the
importance of you know, Tyler Higbee, Kobe Parkinson, David.
Speaker 2 (05:53):
Salin just continuing to do his thing.
Speaker 3 (05:54):
And I think when you've got three veteran examples in
that room, you know, Terrence is a stud and I
think there's a lot of guys that you know that
the enjoyment for each other's success, especially you know, for
this team, but that room in particular is really cool,
can present some different things. You feel Terrence, you know,
you know, huge third down catch and then a big
(06:14):
catch off of the play action where you know, got
some real rack. I thought he was maybe gonna come
out of that thing. It looked like, you know, but
it was a good explosive gain. And you know, I
think the you know the thing you guys hear me
say over and over repetitions the mother of learning. And
he's getting better and he's using those reps to grow.
And it's not exclusive to the plays that he makes
when the ball's in his hands. I mean, he's doing
some good stuff without the ball, learning how to be
(06:36):
a complete tight end. And I love that group and
I think, you know, we we've got to do a
good job of consistently figuring out how to utilize different
personnel groupings, and what's been cool for us is the
guys have leaned in.
Speaker 2 (06:48):
They've done an excellent job.
Speaker 3 (06:50):
You know, I give Scooter huff like I mentioned, a
ton of credit for us to be able to do
as many different things as we've done, particularly the last
two weeks, and it's obviously been very fruitful for our
offense as a whole, and I'm happy for those.
Speaker 2 (07:02):
Guys appreciate it.
Speaker 1 (07:04):
Thank you.
Speaker 2 (07:04):
Yeah, you got it, man.
Speaker 5 (07:06):
Gary.
Speaker 6 (07:08):
Oh hey, Sean, this uh, this isn't the first time,
you know, in your nine seasons that you have had
to deal with special teams issues, particularly kickers, either because
of injuries or performance or whatever. How is this situation similar,
How is it different? And what what do you learn
(07:28):
from you know, your previous experience navigating this kind of issue.
Speaker 2 (07:32):
Yeah.
Speaker 3 (07:32):
I think the biggest thing, I would say, Gary, and
a lot of the previous instances, I had to be
honest with myself of what kind of situations and spots
were we putting that group in. When you go back
a couple of years ago, we were attempting a ton
of fifty plus yard field goals. But all we're talking
about is it's a maker a miss and so you know,
I think what's a little bit different about this is,
(07:53):
you know, the I think that it's it's really the
amount of ones that we've missed and really the the
the you know, the low cation of where those attempts
are from. You know, you're talking about a lot of pats,
a lot of things that are under forty five yards
and then you look at, you know, just some of
the different things that are going on around the landscape
of the league. But I don't know that I've felt
like the consistency of these issues has been as prevalent as.
Speaker 2 (08:15):
What it's been.
Speaker 3 (08:17):
But I ultimately what I do know, Gary is is is.
Speaker 2 (08:20):
We're about solutions.
Speaker 3 (08:21):
We're about cultivating and creating the right atmosphere of the
vibe that gives our players a chance for successful outcomes.
And that's communication. That's an understanding of where is your
role within the one eleventh what are the things that
we need to do to be able to consistently execute
it on a consistent basis.
Speaker 2 (08:39):
And I think we've leaned in.
Speaker 3 (08:40):
And the thing that's hard is is that the reality
is is what you guys look at and what we
feel and this isn't a negative is that, Hey, the
goal is when that operation goes out there, either that
ball goes between the uprights or it doesn't. And if
it doesn't, it's a you know, it's considered a fail.
But that's not exclusive to the kicker.
Speaker 2 (08:58):
Or the holder, the snapper.
Speaker 3 (09:00):
You know, there's eleven guys that you're relying on for
that operation to consistently be able to make extra points
or make field goals. And I think that, you know,
we've got to be able to look at and say,
all right, what are those things that have consistently not
gotten you know, done, or where is the biggest area
that we need to be able to improve to give
(09:20):
us a chance for that group to consistently execute. But
what I do know, Gary, is that patience leaning in,
you know, being able to provide real feedback, but also
you know, with the right vibe and the right clarity
for guys to go execute is the most important thing.
Speaker 2 (09:35):
And that's all I'm gonna continue to do.
Speaker 3 (09:37):
I can't go back and change what happened with that
operation yesterday.
Speaker 2 (09:41):
All we can do is control how we move forward.
Speaker 3 (09:43):
Sorry, these lights are brutal, but yeah, timers. But anyways,
hopefully that answers your question. I don't know if it does.
Speaker 6 (09:53):
Gary, Yeah, And I know you know you're hesitanting. You're
not going to call anyone out particularly, any group out particular.
But I'm just wondering if you can enlighten us a
little bit about what the biggest issue maybe has been.
I mean, has it just been a collective thing or
one time it's this, one time it's the other, or it's.
Speaker 3 (10:14):
Well yeah, I mean you know, we'd have to look
at all of them, and we could sit there and
evaluate it. You want to sit in a film session
with me, man, you'll be bored real quick.
Speaker 2 (10:22):
But here's what I would say.
Speaker 3 (10:23):
The important thing is is it takes the snap. They'll
hold the kick in a certain timing, in trajectory, there's
a responsibility for the protection to be able to prevent
penetration or shorter edges. And if we are operating within
the timing that we expect the location of the snap
and then ultimately the kick gets up and the.
Speaker 2 (10:45):
Location is consistent. You know, those are the things.
Speaker 3 (10:48):
And if you really just look and you say, okay,
was the timing, there was the trajectory.
Speaker 2 (10:54):
How was the snap, how was the hold? Did that
allow Josh to be able to do what he was
capable of.
Speaker 3 (10:59):
Was there the protection good enough within the timing of
the operation. And so there's not one all encompassing issue.
You could look at the different ones, but there was
a couple things that And again I do I do
a respect and appreciate your question, but what I'm not
what I don't think movess forward is okay, hey, let's
talk about exactly what happened on this one.
Speaker 2 (11:21):
I think you guys can kind of look at it
and be able to draw your own conclusions.
Speaker 3 (11:25):
But those are the things that we're looking for consistently,
you know, and then if you do end up, you know,
be able to change up you know, the timing and
rhythm that you want to be able to snap the
ball at.
Speaker 2 (11:34):
We have to be in alignment and.
Speaker 3 (11:36):
Be able to execute that for all eleven to be
on the same page. And you know, that was one
of our issues yesterday was the timing of you know,
where we were not all in lockstep on that and
you know, and that can't happen and that was a
big reason why we weren't able to execute one of
the kicks.
Speaker 6 (11:52):
And then finally for me in regard to Pooka, how
do you feel like he came back yesterday and from
the ankle injury. And I know this is something we've
asked you before, but is there anything you can do
to prevent him from from suffering these kinds.
Speaker 3 (12:10):
Of I feel sick, you know, because you know that
that fourth down situation where he's getting kind of a
side shot and he's so good at that, and that's
such an important situation, and you're saying, damn, you know,
you leave him susceptible to a great player pursuing from
an inside out location that gives him a good shot.
Speaker 2 (12:26):
So that's not on anything him. That's more on the
play call.
Speaker 3 (12:30):
And unfortunately, you're like, man, I feel like this is
the best chance to be able to get us a
yard because of what he thought he is, and you
know the structure we were anticipating, and you know, I'm
hopeful that he'll be all right. He is such a tough,
physical player. I thought he was outstanding Gary. He felt
his presence right away from the first drive. I mean,
you know, even something so subtle as we didn't block
a screen really well in the perimeter, but he breaks
(12:52):
the tackle and might have scored and then ends up
leading to Higbee punching in where you get good momentum.
So you know, he's he's very special for what he
provides for a football team is competitive, toughness, his ability
to do a lot of different things that opens him up.
And obviously it was a great play he in Matthew
connected on down the field. But you know, just the efficiency,
the toughness, the physicality, he was awesome. And you know,
(13:16):
I'm kicking myself, you know about putting him in that
spot where he sustained that you know, shot to the
ribs and you know, you always kind of you're there's
there's occupational hazards in this game, but you're always trying
to pick and choose and make those decisions that are
best for the team also you know, being smart.
Speaker 2 (13:32):
And it's one.
Speaker 3 (13:33):
Of those deals you look back in hindsight and you
got to ask yourself about it as a you know,
as a coach.
Speaker 2 (13:38):
Thanks very much, you're welcome, and we'll wrap up with Sarah.
Speaker 5 (13:42):
Hey, Sean, I'm with the trade deadline tomorrow. Do you
anticipate making any moves?
Speaker 3 (13:46):
I don't think so, you know, I think you know,
we're more leaning into you know, figuring out what's the
right direction with this specific phase you know of our
football team with the field goal up, you know, and
what's the best way to move forward there.
Speaker 2 (13:59):
But again, like what I here's what I've learned to
say to you guys.
Speaker 3 (14:01):
You know that that and I mean that truthfully, there
hasn't been a lot of conversations.
Speaker 2 (14:06):
There's not a lot of examples or things that do
come up.
Speaker 3 (14:09):
But what you never say is never because Gary will
hold me accountable to it.
Speaker 2 (14:13):
And say you didn't you know, So I'm just kidding Gary.
Speaker 3 (14:16):
You know I love you, but you know, it hasn't
been something our our Our main dialogue has revolved around
our football team and the immediate address, you know, issues
that we feel like we need to address, and there
just really hasn't been a lot of dialogue.
Speaker 5 (14:29):
You know.
Speaker 2 (14:29):
We had some dialogue around the corner spot.
Speaker 3 (14:30):
We obviously ended up landing on Roger McCreery, which I've
been pleased with that. But outside of that, you know,
I mean, teams talk and there's calls and conversations all
the time, but nothing that would lead me to believe
that anything is imminent or more it's it's way less
likely that anything occurs for us at this point.
Speaker 5 (14:49):
Early in the season, Davante and Matthew talked about how
they were still working on timing and building that chemistry
and how a lot of that comes just through reps.
Speaker 2 (14:57):
Yep, what's it like.
Speaker 5 (14:58):
As a play caller to see that chemistry develop as
the season has gone on.
Speaker 2 (15:02):
It's awesome, you know.
Speaker 3 (15:03):
I mean, you got two of the right kind of
guys that are just getting on the same page, and
you're watching a lot of the reps. You know that
you guys just see what the you know, the final
you know, presentation is on Sundays. But there's a lot
of things that have gone on in the last few weeks,
especially where you felt like it was training in the
right direction. I've said it over and over again and
I'll continue to say, you know, we're looking for our
(15:23):
practice preparation performance, you know, to be able to equal
game reality.
Speaker 2 (15:27):
That's why you practice to try.
Speaker 3 (15:28):
To mimic and emulate game like situations while minimizing the
risk of injury. And we've seen a lot of great
examples of good practice reps that have then translated into
the game becoming you know, real reps that you're saying,
Man and a hio House did a great presentation last
week of showing, hey, is what we did in practice, Boom,
look how it came to life against Jacksonville, you know,
(15:48):
in the actual game, and we'll be able to do
a lot of the same things from this past week
into what they did, you know, moving forward, and it's
it's really fun to see, and you.
Speaker 2 (15:58):
Know, it's a real credit to both those guys.
Speaker 5 (16:01):
Has there been a play in practice that you saw
that you that I guess got you excited or made
you realize like how good this connection could be.
Speaker 3 (16:08):
There's a lot of plays that get me excited, Sarah.
I think it's just watching. What I get excited about
is not the surprising connection that I'm witnessing, but the dialogue,
the communication, the rapport and their relationship just organically build.
Speaker 2 (16:21):
Because you got two.
Speaker 3 (16:22):
Special players that'll be you know, when their careers are over,
they'll put gold jackets on, but they're so present, they're
so interested in trying to influence and effect positive change
for this team, and their work is starting to show
and pay, you know. Main you know, big dividends for
us in these games, and those are the expectations that
we have moving forward in and neither one of them
(16:42):
ever gets complacent, which is cool, But there's I think
it's just the consistent approach that I've seen from those
guys that really has been consistent throughout the year, and
and now you're starting to see, you know, success is
never linear.
Speaker 2 (16:55):
You know, these things always go through the ebbs and flows.
Speaker 3 (16:57):
And I've watched these guys navigate, you know, some really
cool things to be in a cool spot, and you know,
and you've got to continue to earn that confidence through
the work, not the words, and those guys have done that.
Speaker 5 (17:08):
And then this is not your next game, but the
next time you're at SOFI Stadium, Cooper Cup will be
across the other sideline. What emotions or reaction do you
anticipate to seeing him play against you guys in that
stadium is one of Super Bowl.
Speaker 3 (17:21):
I think, just a lot of love, a lot of appreciation,
you know, for you know, the the amount of time
that we spent, the relationship. You know, this game, you know,
has brought me so much, and the most important thing
that's brought me is a lot of you know, special
people in my life that I've come across that have
changed my life and made me a better person. And
Cooper Cup is one of those guys. He's he's changed
(17:41):
my life for all the better because he was in it.
You know, obviously that was one of the most challenging
situations that you have to navigate as a head coach.
But the personal love, appreciation, the respect I have for
his body of work as a competitor as a player
is I mean, you know, I I could never sit
here and give you enough work words to truly reflect
(18:01):
the love.
Speaker 2 (18:02):
That I have for that human being.
Speaker 3 (18:03):
And and uh, you know, the time that we spent
together with our player coach relationship.
Speaker 2 (18:08):
Thank you, You're welcome. Thanks all right, Thanks guys,
Popular Podcasts
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Are You A Charlotte?
In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.
Stuff You Should Know
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.