Quote:
Originally Posted by Coogs
Don't forget, Smith has issues that are not fixable either. Poor pocket presence. Panics at phantom pressure. Doesn't see down the field when pressured. Won't throw receivers open, will only throw to open receivers.
|
Pat had a tendency to bail from the pocket too quick as well, similar to the "phantom pressure" you are describing. They are going to have to work with him on this for sure. Pat's field vision is great for the most part, but he does miss opportunities from time to time.
Gruden brought up a great example at the end of the Texas game. We were driving to try to tie the game. Still had a timeout on the board. Pat missed an obvious check-down throw and threw into triple coverage in the end zone. Sure enough interception cost us our chance to tie the game. We were not that far from the end zone either. Pat said the check-down guy could have made it to the 7 or 8 yard line. With a timeout on the board, you have to take that check-down when all the guys in the end zone are covered.
I think he understands that he has to change this aspect of his game. But the question is can he control his natural instincts? Even if you know the right thing to do, the question is can you control your adrenaline and everything under the lights or will you revert to bad habits?