Why Did Jalen Hurts Run the Ball Just Once Against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers?
Many football fans and analysts have wondered why Jalen Hurts only ran the ball once in a Monday night game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers but had 15 runs in the 2023 Super Bowl against the Kansas City Chiefs. The answer to this question goes beyond immediate game strategies, delving into factors like coaching styles, injury considerations, and defensive preparations.
Shane Steichen: A Different Coordinator, Different Approaches
The reason for the stark difference in Jalen Hurts' rushing attempts can be attributed to the coaching approach of Shane Steichen, the Buccaneers' defensive coordinator. As a different coordinator with his own unique strategies, Steichen chose to be more conservative with Hurts when deploying his rushing ability. Shane Steichen is known for his ability to adapt to the strengths of his opponents, and in this case, he decided to focus more on Hurts' passing game.
The Impact of Injuries on Player Performance
It's no secret that Jalen Hurts has been dealing with a series of injuries throughout the season. In October, he injured his knee, which required significant rest to recover. Additionally, Hurts has a dislocated finger. While these injuries are not necessarily game-ending, they can have a profound impact on a quarterback's mobility and decision-making. Coaches often opt to be cautious with their star quarterbacks to prevent further damage or prolonged recovery times.
Adding to the challenge, the Buccaneers' defensive unit, led by great performers like Shaquil Barrett and Jason Pierre-Paul, has a reputation for containing elusive quarterbacks. This defensive strength was particularly evident in the previous Super Bowl where the Bucs successfully contained Patrick Mahomes. Therefore, the coaching staff may have felt the need to be more conservative with Hurts' rushing attempts to minimize risks.
Adapting the Game Plan Due to Injuries and Defenses
When a quarterback is dealing with injuries, their ability to move and throw effectively can be compromised. Any running quarterback with muscular issues or a sprain/strain in their legs will lose a lot of their mobility. This can significantly alter a team's game plan. The coaches would need to adapt to ensure that Hurts is more effective in the passing game and less likely to be injured.
Defensive Strategy: The Spy Technique
In situations where a team is facing a quarterback capable of escaping the pocket (like Jalen Hurts), it's common to use a spy technique. In this strategy, a linebacker or a safety is assigned to 'spy' on the quarterback. This player moves about 5 to 6 yards in front of the line of scrimmage and follows the quarterback's movements closely. The spy unit is responsible for stopping the quarterback for a short gain or potentially blitzing him to get a sack.
Recall Super Bowl 55 when the Buccaneers employed this technique against Patrick Mahomes, effectively shutting down his rushing attempts. The same strategy may have been applied to Jalen Hurts to prevent him from gaining rushing yards and to protect his injured body from further strain.
Conclusion: Balancing Risk and Reward
In football, and particularly in high-stakes games like the Super Bowl, it's crucial to balance risk and reward. Jalen Hurts' rushing attempts against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were likely a deliberate strategy to protect his health while still maintaining a potent passing game. The 2023 Super Bowl, on the other hand, saw a different approach based on the specific defensive threats faced by the Kansas City Chiefs.
Ultimately, the decision to have Jalen Hurts run the ball just once in the Monday night game and have 15 runs in the Super Bowl was a strategic one, influenced by a combination of injuries, defensive preparedness, and overall game plan adjustments. This showcases the multifaceted nature of coaching and how decisions in football are based on comprehensive analysis and adaptability.
References
Jalen Hurts
Patrick Mahomes