Well, Steven infuriated a fanbase by pointing out that their team’s quarterback *probably* won’t be the savior they’re hoping for … again.
This time it was by telling New York Jets fans that Sam Darnold, despite moments of intrigue, has not shown — either on film or through underlying metrics — that he’s liable to become a top NFL QB.
The reaction was swift and emotional and at times unhinged and usually unaccommodating of the basic facts Steven used to compile his argument. But, again, that’s generally how these things go (and it’s OK for fans to hold out hope and believe in a player they like; that’s sports.)
So, Jets fans, we brought on Nate Tice, a former QB at Wisconsin who has since worked for the Falcons, Raiders and Alliance of American Football (also his father is Mike Tice, longtime NFL coach), to offer a more optimistic take on what Sam Darnold’s future might be.
Nate’s become one of the most interesting NFL follows on Twitter (@Nate_Tice) because of his attention to detail and penchant for grinding tape always. That insight certainly comes through in our discussion, as he pulls apart what’s holding Darnold back (he mentions the lack of protection, which was a common and fair retort from Jets fans), what he might do to fix those issues and, perhaps more importantly, how Jets coaches have failed to put him in the right position to succeed consistently.
It’s worth a listen if you care about QB play and development and the decision that teams must make after using a high pick on a QB who doesn’t deliver right away. And if you’re an NFL fan you obviously care about those things.
Nate also sticks around to give us thoughts on a few other topics:
- Why Cam Newton’s arrival will allow the Patriots to finally add some excitement to what they do on offense
- Why he’s excited to see the guy Newton is replacing, Tom Brady, in an offensive system where he’ll be asked to push the ball downfield and take more risks
- He explains which teams will be most hurt by the cancellation of offseason activities (young ones with exotic schemes) and which ones will thrive (the Chiefs)
- Finally Nate offers his thoughts on what the season might actually look like, given the growing numbers of COVID-19 cases in many parts of the country
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Enjoy your Fourth of July weekend. We’ll be back Monday morning, bringing you an interview with Gotham Chopra, a frequent collaborator with Tom Brady who has a fascinating documentary series dropping late next week.
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