Leinart Airs “Frustrations” in bold move by Whisenhunt

Is #7 Unraveling Before our Eyes?

 

There was no hiding the disappointment and frustration by Matt Leinart any longer.  When Leinart was told that he would not be the starting quarterback going into the Cardinals third preseason game against Chicago, Leinart publicly aired his frustrations.

"I'm frustrated and disappointed," said Leinart, who is on the verge of losing the starting job again in just four seasons under Whisenhunt. “I don't know how we judge performance when you take 13 pass attempts to the other guy's 40."

The “other guy?”  Excuse me, Matt? This “other guy” is going to take your job if you can not show that you have what it takes to step up and perform when you get the chance.  It is obvious to the fans, the coaches, the public, the media, everyone but you, there has been some major struggles that has everyone in Camp Arizona worried. 

We will grant Matt the fact that it is true that he has not had as much playing time as Anderson, but the reason why is simply because Leinart under center has not produced a single first down. Ouch.  Derek Anderson on the other hand has had all kinds of fun, flinging the pigskin down the field, and although a little inconsistent at times,  makes no hesitation when he has to throw the deep pass down the field to make a play.  

The situation at least for Matt, seems dire.  Although most NFL quarterbacks would automatically know what is needed to solidify their position as the starter, Matt stated, “I'm not really sure what's being asked of me. I've been efficient. I've been accurate. I haven't turned the ball over.” Add to that list if you will, no first downs or the confidence of your receivers and the entire ordeal begins to look like a real mess is brewing for Leinart and the NFC West defending champions. 

After the decision was made and when asked, Leinart alluded to possibly wanting to be traded out of Arizona if he indeed loses the starting job to Anderson, "I'm going to keep working hard, keeping fighting like I've been fighting for four years now, since Denny left. It seems like every preseason there is something I'm trying to get through. I don't really know what's going on and why decisions are being made. I definitely want to be somewhere where I'm wanted and where I can play.”

Don’t start selling your red #7 jerseys just yet. Matt does have a chance to redeem himself on Saturday if he can play well when he takes over for Anderson.  The real question remains, will he? Matt, it’s time to wake up and smell the backup position.  You will be wanted when you can prove to the coaches that without a shadow of doubt, you are able to march your troops up and down the field, despite any circumstance.  The interesting thing is, usually only rookies are surprised by that fact. Good Luck, and May the Force be with you. 

-Louie “The Rock” Santana