Cardinals OC explains Marvin Harrison Jr.’s quiet NFL debut vs. Payments, plan for high rookie WR going ahead
Marvin Harrison Jr.’s NFL debut did not go precisely as deliberate. The highest wideout taken in April’s draft caught only one cross for 4 yards and was focused a mere 3 times. However regardless of Harrison’s lack of manufacturing, the Cardinals put up a struggle earlier than shedding a 34-28 determination to the Buffalo Payments.
Whereas his debut was quiet, do not count on Harrison to place up related stat strains going ahead.
“Actually he’s on the forefront of our minds when it comes to getting him the ball,” stated Cardinals offensive coordinator Drew Petzing stated, by way of the group’s web site. “I believe (the Payments) did some issues to take him away and definitely I might’ve referred to as some performs to get him extra concerned early however I assumed it was a great begin. We have now some work to do.”
Harrison was focused as soon as on Arizona’s first drive and twice on the Cardinals’ second drive (which included his first profession catch). He was not focused in any respect throughout Arizona’s closing 5 drives (not together with Murray’s kneel down on the finish of the primary half.)
Petzing stated he was “a bit bit shocked” that the Payments targeted a lot on Harrison. That, nevertheless, doubtless contributed to tight finish Trey McBride getting focused a team-high 9 occasions. Wideout Greg Dortch was second on the group with eight targets, whereas operating again James Conner was third with 4 targets.
Cardinals quarterback Kyler Murray stated that he didn’t deliberately throw to Harrison instantly after Harrison dropped a cross halfway by means of the second quarter, however that it occurred organically. That was most likely music to Petzing’s ears.
“One of many issues I attempt to stress with Kyler is that it isn’t his job to get sure individuals the ball or fear about how a man is doing within the movement of the sport,” Petzing stated. “I’ve received to do this with the way in which I name the sport, and he is received to make the very best determination based mostly on the look, the protection, how the routes are run.”
Based mostly on Petzing’s feedback, it is clear that whereas he would not need Murray to pressure the ball to Harrison (or anybody else), the Cardinals will make extra of a concerted effort to get Harrison extra concerned shifting ahead.