Matt Eberflus made a somewhat controversial decision last year. As a defensive-minded head coach, most assumed he would seek an offensive coordinator with experience to help balance the team. Somebody that had a track record of developing quarterbacks. Eberflus didn’t comply with those assumptions. Instead he trusted what he’d been hearing from friends around the league and went after Green Bay Packers passing game coordinator Luke Getsy. The young assistant had plenty of fans around the league and knowledge of the wide-zone offense that had found so much success with other organizations.
There was one problem. He had only one year of coordinating experience, and that was in college. Eberflus was taking a big risk considering how vital it was to get Fields pointed in the right direction. While it wasn’t perfect, the relationship worked out. Getsy helped turn the young Chicago Bears quarterback into a legitimate weapon, confounding defenses on the ground. NFL Films released a clip from early in the season against Houston. Getsy was spotted on the sidelines talking to Fields. It’s hear you start to understand why the coach was a solid choice.
Luke Getsy understands the value of trust.
He knew the early parts of 2022 weren’t going to be perfect for Fields. Learning a new offense is difficult, especially in the first season. That was especially true against the Houston Texans in Week 3. Their defense had the quarterback flustered all day. He finished just 8-of-17 for 106 yards and two interceptions. One would think a coach would be angry about it. Getsy knew anger wasn’t a solution. He needed to keep his quarterback focused on the next play. Don’t look over your shoulder. The ball is going right back into your hands.
That is a great way to help a player build confidence. It started to manifest midway through the season. Fields played much better in October and November, even putting together some standout passing performances. For a first impression, the Luke Getsy approach did well. Now he has more toys to play with. D.J. Moore arrives from Carolina. Robert Tonyan came from Green Bay. The offensive line appears stronger. Fields also has full knowledge of the playbook. If this relationship continues to mesh, it could be a fun season.
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