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It’s Friday, so it’s the final press conference of the week for head coach Mike McCarthy. Let’s find out what McCarthy had to say about the upcoming game versus the Eagles. (All answers are paraphrased and not actual quotes).
Andy Dalton’s status
McCarthy said he’s been in meetings and he was at the walk thru today. Coach also said if he practiced tomorrow there would maybe a chance to play but he is not scheduled to practice tomorrow.
Way to handle injuries besides just talent
Coach said the acclimation timeline is important and the number of injuries at a specific position is a challenge. He noted he always incorporates practice squad players into the game plans, both to prepare them for the game and continue their development. He finished by saying guys that have opportunity need to play to expectations.
Backup QB Garrett Gilbert
McCarthy thought he looks a whole week better with the reps he’s gotten. He said like any QB coming in at midseason its a challenge. He noted he’s made a big leap in his timing and there are not a lot of plays that he hasn’t seen before, and that it is mainly getting the timing and the cadence down, along with command of the huddle.
Sean Lee’s status
Coach wouldn’t commit to Lee’s status but said they will take the full week of prep, but that he has like the way he has practiced.
Could Dalton be a backup Sunday?
McCarthy said they will look at all scenarios but until he is cleared by medical staff they can’t know, but he conceded it is an option.
Chris Jones status
He is a little sore and working through some stuff like a lot of players at this time of the season but he will punt on Sunday.
Kellen Moore taking advantage of the speaker in Ben DiNucci’s helmet
Coach said they always utilizes the speaker and it helps all QBs. He also said that in his experience some guys will tell you that you can talk to them until 15 secs of the play clock are left, while others just want the play. Coach said it is something they use at practice, and there is an experience level for Ben having Kellen’s voice in the helmet, but that he doesn’t think he will be talking to him all the way up to the snap.
Chido Awuzie status
McCarthy noted with his injury you have to take it slower and that at yesterday’s practice Chido’s workload was lower than some of the other guys. Coach said he was curious how he looks today and how he looks at his reps tomorrow. That will determine his play on Sunday.