Matt LaFleur, the head coach of the Green Bay Packers, has a weekly practice where he has all of his quarterbacks, including the backup players, rate the offensive plays in the game plan.
This exercise helps LaFleur understand what plays his quarterbacks are comfortable with and what they are not.
This practice became significant for Jordan Love, the backup quarterback, during a game against the Philadelphia Eagles in November.
Love was thrust into the game after Aaron Rodgers got injured in the fourth quarter.
Despite being down in the score, Love made an impressive 63-yard catch-and-run touchdown pass.
As the game unfolded, LaFleur noticed a favorable coverage by the Eagles that he had a specific play for.
However, Love had ranked it as a play to avoid.
LaFleur decided to ask Love if he trusted him to call that play, and Love gave his approval.
“You can have the best play design, and if the guy’s not confident, whether he’s not comfortable with it or whatever, it really doesn’t matter,” LaFleur says via SI. “You always want to push your players, and you want to make them uncomfortable. That time is typically in practice. It’s hard to push that on somebody in a game. I was proud he trusted us enough to get him to the right look.
The play worked as expected, resulting in a 17-yard gain.
Although the Packers ultimately lost the game, the moment left a lasting impression on the coaching staff.
It became a reference point during offseason planning, especially when the possibility of Rodgers not returning was being considered.
This moment showed Love’s confidence and execution, silencing doubts and bringing a new dynamic to the Packers’ quarterback room.
We’ll see how Love fares this season.
Got a story or tip for us? Email TMSPN editors at [email protected]
Want More From The World Wide Leader in Sports Entertainment?
For all the latest breaking in sports entertainment news, be sure to follow TMSPN.com on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
