Arizona Cardinals quarterback coach Matt Schaub made his debut calling offensive plays during Friday’s preseason finale against the Green Bay Packers. Despite the Cardinals falling 42-38, the backup-laden offense put on an impressive performance, accumulating 492 yards across 79 plays and converting nine of fifteen third-down attempts. The first half alone featured 323 yards on 42 plays, demonstrating the unit’s efficiency under Schaub’s direction.
Schaub, who spent 17 seasons as an NFL quarterback before retiring in 2020, joined the Cardinals coaching staff this year after working as a football analyst with the Atlanta Falcons. The transition represents his full-time return to professional football following his playing career. Cardinals head coach Mike LaFleur described Schaub’s decision to call plays as a development opportunity, noting that building coaching staff is equally important as developing players. LaFleur praised Schaub’s ability to focus on fundamentals and his calm demeanor, qualities that come from his extensive playing experience.
In a notable twist, the Packers also featured an unconventional play-caller. Starting quarterback Jordan Love, who did not see action during the game, took over play-calling duties for Green Bay in the second half. LaFleur revealed he made the spontaneous request before the game, and Love executed the role effectively, maintaining composure throughout critical moments and impressing his head coach with his poise.
Originally reported by Sports.yahoo →
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