Matt Eberflus' Remarks Regarding Cody Whitehair's Demotion Are Puzzling.
The Chicago Bears made the unexpected move of sidelining veteran center Cody Whitehair during their Week 6 defeat to the Minnesota Vikings. While it looked like a benching, head coach Matt Eberflus clarified post the 19-13 loss that it wasn't so.
However, Eberflus' explanation for removing the seasoned O-lineman wasn't in alignment with what the substitute quarterback, Tyson Bagent, communicated. As Chicago witnessed multiple players bowing out due to injuries, including starting quarterback Justin Fields, Bagent stepped in during the third quarter. Simultaneously, Lucas Patrick was brought in, replacing Whitehair.
Throughout the match, Whitehair faced challenges with his snaps. When questioned if this was the reason behind Whitehair's substitution, Eberflus' answer raised eyebrows. «No. We were aiming for calmness and bringing in someone with more center experience,» commented Eberflus.
Such a statement is perplexing. If Eberflus implied Patrick had more experience as a center, the records don't back him up. And if he hinted at Bagent and Patrick sharing more game time together, Bagent contradicts him.
Upon further questioning about experience playing a role in the decision, Eberflus elaborated, "With Lucas undergoing concussion protocol during the week and Justin stepping out, introducing Tyson made us feel Lucas, with his extensive experience at center, would be the right choice."
However, ESPN's Courtney Cronin highlighted that Whitehair boasts a more substantial record at the center position. Based on PFF's stats, Whitehair logged 3,882 snaps, while Patrick recorded 1,237.
Even though Patrick has seen slightly more action as a center this season, it remains ambiguous if this was what Eberflus intended to convey.
Post Eberflus' talk, when media personnel quizzed Bagent about his preferred center during practices, he expressed equal comfort with both. Bagent remarked, «I ensure diversity. Each center has unique snap techniques. I try to blend in and adjust during the week and in pre-games."
With Fields possibly being out due to a thumb injury, it remains to be seen if Patrick retains his position when Bagent is the quarterback.
| POLL | ||
16 OCTOBRE | 44 ANSWERS Matt Eberflus' Remarks Regarding Cody Whitehair's Demotion Are Puzzling. Will Matt Eberflus keep his job until the end of the season? | ||
| Yes | 21 | 47.7 % |
| No | 23 | 52.3 % |
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