Can you summarize what it was like playing against the Dolphins last week?
Playing against the AFC’s #1 Seed in the Miami Dolphins was a great way to prepare for playoffs. Going against such a good rushing attack with Blake Corum was the best preparation we could’ve asked for going into the playoffs. He ran for over 100 yards so I’d consider that a failure on us. But at the end of the day, winning against such great competition gives a great boost of confidence, especially before playoffs. We’re playing at the highest level right now and feel we can play with anyone. We’re peaking at a perfect time!
Over your career, what makes a team better at not turning the ball over as the season goes along? What kind of things you need to emphasize? How much of it is coaching? How much of it is a mental part? Physical part?
Patience. Patience. Patience. I feel so many of the mistakes we make on offense are just forcing things that aren’t there. AG has had some issues holding on to the ball, but BRob has really performed well in those short yardage situations when we needed him. Howell has limited picks so much better than his rookie season. We are really proud with how he has developed and matured. He’s really become dynamic with his legs, even if that means taking more sacks, I’m okay with it. But we really just need to stay patient with the offense. Even if we have to punt, let’s trust our defense. We must take the points when we can get them and not be greedy in general.
Can you describe how important it was to get a win at home this week?
It’s everything. It was essential we continued our momentum with a win and kept everyone healthy. T11 got roughed up there for a little bit and Chase gave us a scare but we made it through healthy for the most part. RT Sam Cosmi is dealing with some lingering problems but we’re hoping he’s good by kickoff. Winning this week was also the only reason we could secure the 2 seed. Playing in front of our home crowd for a playoff game. Potentially two or three.
