PurplePTSD: Zimmer: Players Can Expect A “Full Dose” Of Coaching Upon Their Return

Press release from the PurplePTSD:

December 11, 2021

As I’ve explained before, I’m against the whole TNF idea. One distinct benefit, though, is that players get a mini bye week following their game. Mike Zimmer explained in his press conference that the players would get a full 3 days off before returning next week. They’ll then return to prepare for the upcoming Monday Night Football game against the Chicago Bears. Mike Zimmer was less than joyous when describing his team’s effort on Thursday, explaining that his guys would be getting a “full dose” of coaching upon their return.

Early in his press conference, Zimmer outlines his frustration with his corners. The issue is not with their talent, or lack thereof, but with their attention to detail. Doing things right from start to finish, Zimmer insists, is the key to avoiding the late-game roller coaster ride.

It may be a touch more complicated than that, but there’s a lot of truth to what he’s saying. If a corner is supposed to be playing inside shade – which is to say that he’s lined up across from the receiver’s shoulder that is closest to the ball – than that corner needs to ensure he’s doing that. The goal is always to make life exceedingly difficult for the offense. Proper alignment and technique accomplishes that goal. Getting sloppy and freestyling leads to boneheaded mistakes.

It’s toward the end of the press conference when Mike Zimmer suggests his players will get a full dose of coaching upon their return. He brings it up in response to all the late-game collapses or near collapses. “If we start being more disciplined,” Zimmer said, “in our alignments, in our techniques, where were supposed to be, what were supposed to do, we don’t have to make it like this.” He goes onto say that the “when [the players] come back next week, they’re going to get a full dose.”

Unsurprisingly, the old coach is as stubborn as ever. It’s part of what makes him a good coach; it’s part of what makes him a bad coach. He has a resilience and determination that are admirable. He also remains resolute in his vision even if there are flaws.

The players likely need some time away to recharge. Several players – Barr, Kendricks, Pierce, Cook, Peterson – are just getting back. Several more – Bynum, Darrisaw, Thielen – are still recovering. When they return, Zim will surely be getting after them to start doing things the right way.

If successful, Minnesota will have a shot against the Bears on MNF to bring the record up to 7-7.

This press release was produced by the PurplePTSD. The views expressed here are the author’s own.