FanPost

Why Doesn't Stafford Audible?

I'm re-watching the Lions' first preseason game, and I've noticed a few times on their first two drives, where the blitz is obvious, and Stafford must know it.

First play: The second running play of the game, the weak side ILB is clearly cheating up. This would be a good time to audible, or make sure the O-Line knows who has who. The ball is snapped, and Raiola has to pick up the blitzing LB, instead of the eventual tackler, who fills the hole untouched.

Second play: First play of the second drive, pressure coming from both outside rushers. Reiff does a good job with initial contact, but then gives up on the play, his man eventually making the tackle for no gain.

Third play: Right after the Milliner pass break up, the safety just strolls down to the line of scrimmage. Stafford sees it, and throws a quick fade to Calvin. Incomplete, third down and 10.

Fourth play: The very next play, 3rd & 10, there are two guys coming off of the edge on the weak side. They're not hiding this. This is the one time I see him actually call it out. I don't think he trusts his guys too much to pick it up however, because he makes a bad throw to his first option. The O-Line and RB actually do a pretty good job picking this up though (funny how that works when you call it out and allow them to audible, huh?). The down TE may have actually been a decent read (the TE did not run the route well, after knowing the blitz was on, he should have gone to the inside where there was space) if Stafford would've taken a half second to check any of his other three receivers. He also could have audibled the WR on the weak side to a slant, right behind the blitz.

I'm wondering if Stafford will ever get to the point where he realizes these things, makes adjustments and shreds defenses. I have to say, (and I know, this is just the first preseason game) I don't think he'll ever make that jump if he hasn't made up any ground there yet. Who's coaching him? Geez...

This is a FanPost and does not necessarily reflect the views of Pride Of Detroit or its writers.