Take a Deep Breath!
An article today, by Ryan Wilson over at Fanhouse has me a bit ticked off. He quotes an unnamed source as follows:
Some scouts and executives believe Campbell is a poor fit for the West Coast offense, with his size and skills favoring seven-step drops and more deep throws, instead of the three-step drops and quick, rhythmic cadence of Zorn’s style. “When I watch that team, I think something’s going to have to give,” said one NFL executive who has studied Campbell closely and believes he could succeed as a drop-back passer. “Is it the scheme or the quarterback? At some point either the coach is going to have to change what he does to fit the quarterback, or they’re going to need a different quarterback.”
After one game, it has already started. People are beginning to question whether Jason Campbell is suited for the offense. They’re quick to comment on his performance in the last two preseason games, and the most recent game against the Giants. I will readily concede the point that the offense looked pathetic, especially in the first quarter. In fact, see my game summary and commentary as I watched. Honestly, they didn’t look ready.
That said, I fully believe it is extremely premature to grade and/or judge Jason Campbell or Jim Zorn based on the performance thus far. Let’s all remember, Joe Gibbs needed five games to figure it out. Now, I know what Ryan Wilson might say to that. He’d say, the reason Joe Gibbs turned it around after five games is because he adjusted the offense to fit his personnel. And you know what, he’d be right.
So, maybe Jim Zorn and/or Jason Campbell will adjust further. But, what I think, is that first and foremost, the will each become more comfortable with each other. And that alone will yield better results.
Lastly, with regards to JC’s size, Brett Farve is only three inches shorter. Let’s all relax, take a deep breath. We may or may not make the playoffs. But, we will be an improved team.
