Without knowing what Harrell's footwork should be on that play no one can tell whether he or the lineman is at fault.

Originally Posted by: PackerTraxx 

It was just one of those things that happens. I think a more experience QB would have known to step farther back but again, its not really a 'mistake' on his part in my opinion.

Originally Posted by: Zero2Cool 

I think what was said in chat on Sunday was the best summary of this. Sure, don't crucify him for getting stepped on. Maybe Jeff Saturday got pushed, maybe he slipped, maybe a lot of things. However, the poor decision to hand the ball off to Benson's thigh to try to force the play was probably a little bit too foolish for his one and only play of the game/career(?).

(and if any one of you has read John Grisham's football book, Playing for Pizza, then you will understand the irony of that play and the fact that I just started the book yesterday. Basically, in the start of the book, the 3rd string QB for the Browns comes in with 11 mins left and a significant lead in the AFC championship game. He throws 3 passes...all picks...and becomes the goat as his team loses and no Browns SB.#-o It is sort of a For Love of the Game but for football book.)

Originally Posted by: istanbulpacker 

was it just last week or was it against the Bears where Rodgers was tripped and falling down? He managed to reach out and get the ball to Benson. It could have happen to Aaron as well. Quality players don't quit. They try to make the most out of a bad situation.

I am not sold on Harrell being a starting QB in the NFL but I am not saying the fumble was his fault either.

Originally Posted by: wpr 

Since I haven't seen anyone mention it, Mike said he should not have called a play with such complicated footwork with a QB who has had very little practice time.

Originally Posted by: gbguy20 

Yeah, the other thing not mentioned is that it wasn't Harrell's fault that Brees throws an 80yd TD either. Certainly the Harrell fumble cost us at least 3 pts. The 7 pts we gave up a few plays later, however, goes against the D. Anyone see anything on what happened there? Was Shields supposed to have top cover or did he just blow it?

Originally Posted by: istanbulpacker 

Since I haven't seen anyone mention it, Mike said he should not have called a play with such complicated footwork with a QB who has had very little practice time.

Originally Posted by: gbguy20