The Philadelphia Eagles almost lost their game against the New Orleans Saints, with the final score standing at 15-12. They pulled off that victory, even as they put up a tough fight. However, they nearly lost their game due to a big missed block, which is discussed below by Special Teams Coordinator Michael Clay; a blocked punt by J.T. Gray. What went wrong, its effects on the game, and what the team learned from it are discussed in this article.
Special Teams’ Significance
Special teams can be the difference in a football game. They often change the direction of a game in a matter of moments. For example, in that game, the Eagles were trailing 3-0 and ready to punt when disaster hit: J.T. Gray was left unblocked. He zipped past Nolan Smith, getting to Punter Braden Mann just in time to block the kick. Mistakes like these might swing a close game.
Gray blocked the punt and gave the Saints a huge opportunity. He blocked the kick, which Jordan Howden recovered, and ran it back to the Eagles’ 27-yard line. The Saints had a short field with an opportunity to increase their advantage, but the Eagles defense answered the call by stopping Alvin Kamara on a big 4th-and-1. But the blocked punt brought out an even greater problem for the special teams that had to be addressed immediately.
Michael Clay Owns Up
Special teams Coordinator Michael Clay didn’t resort to “it wasn’t our fault” speaking as the team relinquished the momentum back to the Saints when they failed to get off a punt. Accountability is what helps teams improve, and it’s about learning besides winning.
Clay stressed that this is an opportunity for learning for the team. On his part, he explained that Nolan Smith should have done better in blocking assignments because he kept focusing on the same particular inside area that allowed Gray to take advantage of the edge. Michael Clay added that what needs to be done now is to improve a little more in fundamental technique so the special teams will be fine.
Looking Ahead
The Eagles, now having this experience, are granted the ability to grow and learn from this game. Special teams will be a key area of the next game. This special teams unit and Clay will work so that all will understand what is required of them. With a special team unit that improves, it might well be the difference-maker in making it through. Having success in the games to come, especially when those games happen to pit the Eagles against their most arduous opponents.
The blocked punt by J.T. Gray was probably the most important moment in their win over New Orleans because, while it once again exposed some of the vulnerable areas in special teams, it showed the resiliency of the Eagles’ defense as well. And on that note, if Michael Clay is quick to learn from his mistakes and improve, then that’s a good thing for the team. As they head into the next game, special teams will play a large role. If the Eagles dedicate themselves and work hard, they can ensure that the same mistake will never be repeated.
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