Plain English with Derek Thompson A Sports Mystery: What Happened to the NFL Quarterback?
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Sep 20, 2024 In this insightful discussion, Robert Mays, host of 'The Athletic Football Show,' explores the alarming decline in NFL quarterback performance this season. He delves into the impact of smarter defenses and evolving offensive strategies, examining how today's quarterbacks face unprecedented challenges. Mays also highlights the shift from traditional pocket passers to more mobile quarterbacks and questions whether the NFL might revert to a run-heavy approach as teams rethink their strategies. It's a deep dive into the transformation of a crucial position in sports.
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The QB Struggle
- NFL offenses are struggling historically, with passing yards and touchdowns declining significantly.
- Defenses have caught up, making it harder for quarterbacks.
2011 Passing Boom
- Drew Brees's impressive 2011 season didn't win MVP due to Aaron Rodgers's performance.
- This highlights a pivotal moment in the passing boom, followed by defensive improvements like the Seattle Seahawks' 'Legion of Boom'.
Single High Coverage
- The single high coverage scheme, popularized by the Seahawks, initially gave defenses an edge.
- Offenses, led by coaches like McVay and Shanahan, adapted and exploited these predictable defenses.