To whom is Polian referring? (quotes)

by SpazMo on Oct 13, 2009 3:03 AM EDT Comment 7 comments

Reading John Oesher's transcript of Bill Polian's radio show (Link: http://www.examiner.com/x-4450-Indianapolis-Colts-Examiner~y2009m10d13-Indianapolis-Colts-President-Bill-Polian-on-CB-Marlin-Jackson-and-the-Colts-running-back-rotation) and I noticed this tidbit (emphasis mine):

* Polian on where the unbeaten Colts can improve: "There are lots of things we can improve. (Defensive line coach) John Teerlinck is fond of saying, 'Don't miss the layup.' When you get a layup interception, you have to take advantage of it. In two of those cases, the defensive rush created the interception and we should have had it. That clearly can be improved. In terms of blocking efficiency and run efficiency, we can improve that pretty dramatically. That has not been what it should be or can be or will be. Some areas of pass protection can be improved, particularly on on one. . . . We can improve that certainly. There are areas on defense we can improve, particularly in terms of all-out hustle all the time. We had some people like (defensive end) Keyunta Dawson that really stepped up and did a great job of that, but there are other people who can improve upon what they're doing. It's good enough, but it can improve. The message for our team this week is nobody stands still in the National Football League. You either get better or you get worse."

So the question is, who does Bill think is doggin it out there? This seems like a pretty not-so-subte shot across someones bow, but I can't figure out who. For all the faults of Jennings, I don't think Hustle is one of them. I don't think you could say the two corners aren't hustling, and I don't think you'd say anything about Free and Mathis' hustle. The safeties seem safe, so that leaves the LBs and the DTs, imo. At this point, I guess most likely target is Hagler? Thoughts/opinions? Anything else from the BP Radio show that stood out to you?

This is a FanPost and does not necessarily reflect the views of Stampede Blue's writers or editors. It does reflect the views of this particular fan though, which is as important as the views of Stampede Blue's writers or editors.

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Also of note:

sounds like we shouldnt expect Marlin, Gonzo and perhaps Bob back after the bye.

by SpazMo on Oct 13, 2009 3:11 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

Probably no one really

I mean, I’m sure he is talking about something, but I’m guessing the brass is a bit concerned about peaking early. This is the 2nd time I’ve head “you are either getting better or you are getting worse” from the Colts organization. Since the team is playing pretty fantastic, he’s probably trying to do his part to keep players motivated and not complacent. Other than health, that’s my biggest concern right now.

The Shogun of Harlem

by shonuff on Oct 13, 2009 7:50 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

To me

it sounds like he is taking a shot at everyone as if to say “yeah there are people who suck at not blocking for the running back and people who suck at not pass protecting.”

by metal_militia on Oct 13, 2009 9:57 AM EDT reply actions 0 recs

First off, great use of the objective case (whom vs who)

It may seem obvious, but it’s often missed.

Second, if he meant anyone in particular, I’m guessing an LB or DT. Not that performance has been bad, but when guy is taking on blockers and holding his ground, then gets an arm on a runner and helps with the tackle, that appears to be a good play. It’s not dogging it, but not giving max effort either. And for most of their lives, guys are congratulated on doing it because they didn’t f-up. My 8 year-old at OLB makes a lot of tackles after 5 yard gains by waiting for the runner to reach him. Because he’s young I don’t say it’s bad, but try to point out that if he shoots the gap he could get that guy at the LOS. That kind of thing.

But there is also the possibility that he could have driven that blocker backwards and hit the RB two yards deeper. THOSE are the guys we watch and say “Holy crap, that guy is playing like a beast.” Frankly, I think we are generally doing that, but I know in breaking down peewee league game film with my son, the interior line and LBs are the toughest to see what’s actually going on and I’ll assume the coaches’ film shows that a little better than we can see.

That, or he’s just warning them to not get complacent with a bye and the pathetic Rams coming up. He’s no fool.

I hate Joe Namath. That's how long I've been a Colts fan.

by Bobman on Oct 13, 2009 12:42 PM EDT reply actions 0 recs