← The Herd with Colin Cowherd
The Herd with Colin Cowherd
Richard Sherman Podcast - Packers’ Evan Williams on Micah Parsons, Super Bowl hopes, Jordan Love | Richard Sherman NFL
00:32:15
Loading summary
Transcript182 lines
- [00:00]
Marcus Grant
This is an iHeart podcast.
- [00:05]
Matt Jones
Hey, this is Matt Jones and I'm Drew Franklin and this is NFL Cover Zero. We're just here to try to give you an NFL perspective a little bit different. Did you see the Colts pretzel? That was my other big takeaway from that game. What was that?
- [00:19]
Marcus Grant
Oh, my.
- [00:20]
Matt Jones
We think NFL coverage should be informative and entertaining. And twice a week, that is exactly what you're going to get. Listen to NFL Cover 0 with Matt Jones and Drew Franklin on the iHeartRadio app podcast or wherever you get your podcast.
- [00:37]
Daniel Jeremiah
Hey, everybody. Daniel Jeremiah here and I'm Bucky Brooks on Move to six. We take you inside the game, from breaking down college prospects and NFL rookies.
- [00:47]
Bucky Brooks
To evaluating team building philosophies, coaching trends, and how front offices construct winning rosters.
- [00:52]
Daniel Jeremiah
We study the tape, talk to decision makers, and give you a perspective you won't find anywhere else.
- [00:58]
Bucky Brooks
It's everything you need to understand the why behind what happens on Sundays.
- [01:03]
Daniel Jeremiah
Don't miss it. Listen to the Move the Sticks podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [01:11]
Dan
I'm Dan. He's Ty.
- [01:12]
Evan Williams
Hello.
- [01:13]
Dan
And we're the solid verbal college football podcast.
- [01:16]
Ty
Tune in for previews, recaps, bits you won't hear anywhere else, and all the emotional support you need as a college football fan.
- [01:24]
Dan
Join us all season long as we ride the roller coaster of this ridiculous sport.
- [01:29]
Ty
Listen to the solid verbal college football podcasts on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [01:37]
Dan
We don't just love college football, Ty. We live it.
- [01:43]
Marcus Grant
I'm Marcus Grant.
- [01:44]
Michael F. Florio
And I'm Michael F. Florio. And together we host the NFL Fantasy Football podcast.
- [01:49]
NFL Fantasy Football Podcast Co-host
Ready to dominate your fantasy league this season?
- [01:52]
Michael F. Florio
Then you need the NFL Fantasy Football Podcast. Your ultimate source for player news, draft tips and winning strategies.
- [01:59]
NFL Fantasy Football Podcast Co-host
Whether you're a rookie manager or a.
- [02:01]
Michael F. Florio
Fantasy vet, we've got the insight to help you crush your opponents.
- [02:05]
NFL Fantasy Football Podcast Co-host
Listen to the NFL Fantasy Football podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [02:13]
Evan Williams
Toyota, the official automotive partner of the NFL. Visit toyota.com NFL now to learn more. Yeah, them PVUs pay rent and then I aunties pay mortgage.
- [02:22]
Marcus Grant
They pay the mortgage, they buy the house. Welcome back to the Richard Sherman podc. We got an incredible guest on today, Evan Williams of the Green Bay Packers. Been playing so well this season, brother. Appreciate you joining us.
- [02:40]
Evan Williams
Yes, sir. Appreciate you for having me, man. It means a lot.
- [02:43]
Marcus Grant
You deserve it. Talk about the Jump from year one to year two because you started six games as a rook. In my rookie year, I started 10. And when you get into your second year, it's just like you feel such a different comfort level out there, such a different calmness and then playing with the same guys. Just walk me through your development and your growth.
- [03:06]
Evan Williams
Yeah, really, you said it. It's a, it's a comfortability about the whole thing. You know, being able to have a full year under the system. Right. So just being able to understand the playbook and kind of not feel like you got to be anywhere too fast, really, just because you, you know, you got that year under your belt and, you know, you kind of understand all the rules as they are. And then, yeah, playing with the, you know, same guys going into your second year. And really, just from a mental standpoint, you said it like, I don't feel like, you know, obviously every, every game you got something to prove, but, you know, you go out there, it's not, it's not your first time anymore, it's not your first rodeo. So you're just a little more, you know, comfortable out there on the field, you know, able to, you know, have a complete focus about you when you out there. And yeah, each game I'm feeling more and more comfortable with the guys around me too.
- [03:57]
Marcus Grant
So I'm gonna walk you back. Take me through to leave Fresno State and go to Oregon.
- [04:04]
Evan Williams
Yeah, Man, I really wanted to finish my college career at Fresno State. That was my plan for my whole, really college career until, yeah, I had a little knee injury that kind of sidetracked things my last year at Fresno State. And that year I was able to get surgery, come back and win a championship there. And so, yeah, really just came down to having talks with my family, talks with friends, you know, close people around me. And the consensus was, you know, I really just did all that I could do at Fresno State, you know, committed four good years there. And, you know, like it or not, scouts are looking at the level of competition you're playing against, you know, that that is a big factor in, you know, where you're going to go and draft wise. And so, you know, it wasn't only that. It was also, you know, proving it to myself that I could play, you know, against the, the blue chip guys, you know, the best of the best at their positions. And. Yeah, and so, you know, it wasn't an easy decision by any means, but, you know, I'm, I'm glad I did it. Got to some great, you know, relationships out of it, you know, got that whole coaching staff, Coach Landon, Coach Lupo, you know, all of them taught me so much for my one year there. And, yeah, got to, you know, compete at a pretty high level. Went to the PAX World Championship and all that, so wasn't an easy decision, but, you know, definitely looking back, I'm glad I did it.
- [05:27]
Marcus Grant
Right. Right. Hey, sometimes you got to make hard decisions, and it pans out exactly like you need to. You. You also participated in the Senior bowl, and I. I played in the Senior bowl before it became whatever bowl it is now because they say juniors could play in it. I don't know as the Senior bowl and everybody get to play, but, yeah.
- [05:45]
Evan Williams
I don't know about that.
- [05:46]
Marcus Grant
Right, right, right, right. But talk about that experience, because they called me after the first day of practice. Somebody got injured. It was kind of disrespectful. But, you know, when you're going through that process, you like, hey, I'll take whatever I could get. Y' all giving me another shot.
- [05:58]
Evan Williams
I'm in, man. And I was kind of in the same boat. I was a pretty late AD to the Senior bowl, so, you know, I was hoping to get whatever bowl invite I was, you know, trying to get. Yeah, at that point, you kind of just grabbing and clawing. All right, whatever. Whatever op I got, let me take it. And, yeah, hit the ground running. But no, yeah, I was thinking East, West, Shrine Bull was, you know, initially, and then one of the last days, like, probably less than a week before, you know, they got going, they invited me, got to come down and. Yeah, honestly, met a lot of people that, you know, are in the league right now. And, you know, that. That was kind of just a pretty cool process seeing, you know, obviously talking to all the scouts and then, yeah, me and. Me and a bunch of your boys that, you know, are going to be lifelong relationships in the league. It was a pretty. Pretty cool thing to be put on, and, yeah, I'm glad I was a part of it, for sure.
- [06:48]
Marcus Grant
Yeah, it's such a cool game, and it's so cool to play at a high level. You don't realize they don't care nothing about the game until you get to the game and nobody's there. And the scouts, everybody's gone, but they there all week at every practice, watching every one on one. And you like, why is practice more important than the game? But it is what it is.
- [07:06]
Evan Williams
It works out, no? Yeah, for sure. It was pretty empty, now that you say that it was pretty empty during the game. I got a pick, too, in the game, and I'm looking around for the scouts. I'm like, all right, ain't nobody around here, really.
- [07:19]
Marcus Grant
Right, right. You're like, yeah, yeah, they'll send you the tape. They'll send you the tape. You'll see it.
- [07:24]
Evan Williams
Yeah, yeah. They really just want to see your practice habits.
- [07:27]
Marcus Grant
Right.
- [07:28]
Evan Williams
And, yeah. See really your character, what you made of. But no, it was a cool experience, regardless.
- [07:33]
Marcus Grant
Speaking of character. And so now you're drafted by the Green Bay Packers. You're a California kid. You go from Fresno State to Eugene. Now you. And now you're in Wisconsin. Green Bay, Wisconsin. You know, as a. As a. As another California kid, I haven't. I've never been to Green Bay, Wisconsin, to live. I've been there a couple times. And all I knew before they got that roadhouse or whatever Texas roadhouse they got now they only had that Red Lobster, and that was. That was it. That was the spot.
- [08:05]
Evan Williams
You know, they got a few more restaurants now. You can come back, check them out. But, nah, it's a little more of the same, I must say. But.
- [08:13]
Marcus Grant
But it seems like some of the best fans in the world, you know, one of the most unique environments I've ever seen. They seem like they have so much love and appreciation for the team, and the relationship with the. With the. The fans and the team is. Is really unlike anywhere else.
- [08:28]
Evan Williams
Yeah, it is pretty unique, really. I always say that the. The fans or just the people really make the town. Like, everybody you run into. You know, two things about them. They love their packers, and, you know, they're. They're not going to do the most when you out in public. Like, they. They definitely understand. And if they under. Like, if they know who you are, they're gonna just show their appreciation in. In the little ways and not try to, you know, blast your name, ask for a bunch of pictures and stuff, which I think is pretty cool. Just, you know, being able to maintain that little bit of privacy when you're out with your family and all that. But, nah, yeah, Green Bay, it's been a blessing for me so far. Again, the organization is just pretty one of a kind as far as how they take, you know, care of everybody. Every player is like family to them, so, you know, they take care of you and your family in a certain type of way. And it's really just built around a culture of winning. Right, like that. That's kind of just the standard around here. And, you know, being able to hold everybody to that standard is a Is a pretty cool thing to be, you know, be a part of and expect that out of, you know, other people.
- [09:33]
Marcus Grant
What was your welcome to the league moment? You know, it don't got to be on the field. It can be on the field. It could be off the field. It could be an offseason. But what was your welcome to the league like? Man, I'm. I'm really in the league. It could be bad. It could be great.
- [09:45]
Evan Williams
Yeah, I mean, there's not many welcome to the leagues that are positive, I must say, but if I had to pick one, there was. It was actually pretty late in the year. I. I wouldn't say this is the first welcome to the league, but we're playing the Dolphins in Lambeau. Really cold game. Like, it's snowing. It's probably around 10 degrees. And then. Yeah. So Boomer, he mostert gets a little sweep around the edge, breaks through the second level. I kind of get a late read on it, so I'm not really hitting the ground.
- [10:19]
Marcus Grant
Oh, that's bad ball.
- [10:20]
Evan Williams
That's bad bull, man. And so, yeah, he pops through the hole, like, untouched. And I'm kind of on my heels already. I said, okay, I got to reaccelerate real quick. So I reaccelerate. And, yeah, let's just say I got a face full of hands. For sure, for sure.
- [10:37]
Marcus Grant
He got gas moment, but he got one.
- [10:40]
Evan Williams
Okay, he can run. So he. He's coming through like he's running now. I'm like, okay, I gotta restart my feet tried to get going. And, yeah, he. He gave me one. I said, okay, there's levels, right?
- [10:50]
Marcus Grant
Right, there's levels. Put that in the notebook.
- [10:52]
Evan Williams
Nothing wrong with that, right? Yeah, yeah. Take your notes. Keep it pushing.
- [10:57]
Marcus Grant
Yes, sir. It happens like that sometimes. I, you know, I played. Look, I feel so old because I'll be like, back in my day, you know, my rookie year, there were still fullbacks with neck rolls on. So I hit a fullback with a neck roll on, coming from a deep third without no flat defender. And, and just, just, just, just know I was seeing black and white on one side and color on the other side. Like, I had two different TVs, but I survived.
- [11:22]
Evan Williams
Yeah, we made it.
- [11:23]
Marcus Grant
We made it. We made it.
- [11:24]
Evan Williams
Now we just stronger because of it. That's it, that's it.
- [11:27]
Marcus Grant
That's it. Talk to me about Jeff Athlete, because one of the. One of the best human beings, one of the most incredible football minds, and just a great human, genuine human being. You know, how he relates to his players, how he speaks life into his players and how he does everything he can to put you guys in position to be successful, and he wants the best for you. Talk about your relationship and just meet, you know, you came in as a rook, so he's all, you know, yeah.
- [11:52]
Evan Williams
And really, if I could just describe him, it would be he's a leader of men, and he knows how to do it really well. And as far as just, like, how he talks to us, again, he's a guy that, you know, treats you like family, is always asking, you know, how you doing? Like, how's your men? So how's your family? The questions that matter, right? Like, you want to know that your coach got your back just like you got his. And so, yeah, that's a guy that, you know, showed care, you know, immediately as I got into this program, you know, had a. Had a plan for me immediately, you know, as I came into this organization and then on the field as far as scheme, like, he just makes our jobs so simple just so that, you know, and before each game, he. One of the things he always says, he's like, listen, don't even worry about making mistakes, right? Like, just play fast. Like, put whatever mistakes you got. If you got any hesitancy, that's on the coaches, that's on us. I just want you to go out there and play as fast as you can, as violent as you can, and that really just, you know, frees things up, you know, from a player perspective, Right? Like, you, I don't got to worry about making a mistake. You know, I'm. Coach. Not gonna get on me for that. He will, but, you know, he's. That. That's down the road. That's down the road. But no, just for him to have that trust in us and, you know, to give us assignments that just allow us to get our cleats in the ground, you know, read everything in front of us and play fast. He keeps it simple for us, and, yeah, it just puts us in a great spot to make plays.
- [13:16]
Marcus Grant
You guys have a really smart and young and aggressive secondary. I love watching you guys play because you guys remind us of. Of when, you know, our secondary group so much because we kind of grew up together and. And it's like an offensive line and a secondary, it's the same. The more time you spend together, the more you play together, the more you kind of know each other's habits, you know, where he's going to be, what to expect, his strengths, his weaknesses. And there's a different way of dealing with adversity so when you run into adversity and you run into hard moments, it's not like you guys are like, man, what the F are you doing? What the F are you doing? You're just like, hey, hey, I understand you wanted to do your job at a high level. Mistakes happen. Hey, we getting past that next play. And so again, just to speak, to carry on what you were saying, it's like you guys speak confidence into each other. Your coach speaks confidence into each other. So you're not afraid to. To. To. To. To make a mistake or. Or shoot your gun because, you know, they got your back not only on the field, but off the field.
- [14:15]
Evan Williams
Yeah, yeah. I mean, that's. That's really everything. Just building a relationship, you know, in that DB room. Yeah, it's huge. You know, from. Especially coming off those field. You know, those. Those post drive, post touchdown conversations are some of the, you know, most important conversations you're going to have in the whole game. Just because, you know, it really teaches you about the group itself, how y' all gonna respond to adversity and just how tight your bond is. Right. Like, if you're able to just acknowledge the problem, get it solved, you know, and not have to worry about somebody feeling some type of way just because we, you know, we've all been with each other, we've all been through these adversities before, like, it's nothing new. Everybody's gotta, you know, take accountability at some point. And so, yeah, just being able to, you know, get the problem solved as fast as you can and then, yeah, when you're on the field to understand that, yeah, these guys got my back, or you just know the tendencies of players. Okay, I know X is going to play this super aggressive, so I'm going to let him shoot his gun. And, yeah, I got to be a little more, you know, cautious of this run fit or I know he's going to probably play the high route in this scenario, so I can, you know, gives me the opportunity to go make a play. Just, you know, the more reps you stack in practice, the more those things unconsciously happen and you're able to just play off each other and. Yeah, really, it's a beautiful thing. You know, when you. You see these DB rooms getting to year two, year three, I mean, how long were y' all together? The lobby? We were too long.
- [15:43]
Marcus Grant
Yeah. Too long. Too long. I think we ended up getting six together.
- [15:47]
Evan Williams
Yeah. Yeah. Hell yeah. So, yeah, being able to just have that confidence in your brothers, there's really nothing like it from. From a back end perspective.
- [15:54]
Marcus Grant
No, there's not. And wait until you guys get into some of these playoff games and you just get. Oh, my God, it feel like your brains are tied on a string. You start to get in the zone. I tell you what it feel. Oh, it's different. We gonna talk after y'. All. After y' all go to the playoff and y' all boys play well and you. After that, y' all go make that deep playoff run, hopefully get you a trophy. I'm. I'm putting you back on the podcast. And hell yeah, you gonna be like, I know what you're talking about. Like you tied on a string out there. Absolutely. No question about it. That's gonna. That's gonna be fun. Speaking of, you guys were underrated last year for some reason. I mean, you guys were top five defense, you know, top six, top five in yards, eight in sacks, I think six in points or something like that. And underrated because of what I would consider just, just.
- [16:46]
Matt Jones
Hey, this is Matt Jones. I'm Drew Franklin, and this is NFL Cover Zero. We think NFL coverage should be informative and. And entertaining. And twice a week. That is exactly what you're going to get. We're just here to try to give you an NFL perspective a little bit different. Did you see the Colts pretzel? That was my other big takeaway from that game.
- [17:06]
Marcus Grant
What was that?
- [17:07]
Matt Jones
Looks like something that should not be sold.
- [17:09]
Marcus Grant
Oh, my.
- [17:09]
Matt Jones
So that was my other big Colts takeaway. They sold that.
- [17:12]
Marcus Grant
Yes.
- [17:12]
Matt Jones
Might want to go back at the Colts stadium.
- [17:14]
Evan Williams
Yeah, I might want to go back.
- [17:15]
Matt Jones
To the drawing board on that. Yeah. I thought the shape we had with pretzels was working pretty well.
- [17:19]
Evan Williams
It's worked for generations.
- [17:21]
Matt Jones
We're just here trying to enjoy it. We hope you all will. Will join us throughout the year. And let's go. I hope I'm as youthful as Pete Carroll is at his age. He's a young 73. He is a young 73. He is spry. I wouldn't fight him. I would listen. NFL Cover Zero with Matt Jones and Drew Franklin on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.
- [17:48]
Daniel Jeremiah
What's up, everybody? Daniel Jeremiah here, and I'm Bucky Brooks on Move the Sticks. We take you inside the game, from scouting, player development to team building philosophies.
- [17:58]
Bucky Brooks
Coaching trends, and how front offices construct winning rosters.
- [18:01]
Daniel Jeremiah
Every week we study the tape, talk to decision makers, and share the insights you won't find anywhere else.
- [18:07]
Bucky Brooks
It's the kind of conversation that Connects the dots. From college football prospects to the NFL stars of tomorrow.
- [18:13]
Daniel Jeremiah
We break down the draft, analyze matchups and evaluate how teams put it all together on game day.
- [18:19]
Bucky Brooks
Plus, we dig in the coaching strategies, roster construction and the trends that shape the league year after year.
- [18:25]
Daniel Jeremiah
Whether you're a die hard fan or just love understanding the game on a deeper level, we give you the full picture.
- [18:31]
Bucky Brooks
If you want insight that goes beyond the box score, this podcast is for you.
- [18:35]
Daniel Jeremiah
Don't miss it. Listen to the Move the Six podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [18:45]
Dan
I'm Dan, he's Ty.
- [18:47]
Matt Jones
Hello.
- [18:48]
Dan
And we're the Solid Verbal College Football Podcast.
- [18:51]
Ty
College football season is here. And you know what that means.
- [18:57]
Dan
Your team is going to break your heart three times probably before Halloween.
- [19:02]
Evan Williams
Uh huh.
- [19:02]
Ty
But fear not, the Solid Verbal will be right there with you through every soul crushing loss and impossible comeback.
- [19:09]
Dan
Join us all season long, all year long, as we ride the rollercoaster of this ridiculous sport.
- [19:16]
Ty
Whether you're a diehard for fan or a casual observer, we'll help you make sense of all the chaos and of course, celebrate the madness. Tune in for previews, recaps, bits you won't hear anywhere else, and all the emotional support you need as a college football fan.
- [19:32]
Dan
We don't just love college football, Ty, we live it.
- [19:36]
Ty
Listen to the Solid Verbal College Football podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [19:47]
Marcus Grant
I'm Marcus Grant.
- [19:48]
Michael F. Florio
And I'm Michael F. Florio and together we host the NFL Fantasy Football Podcast.
- [19:54]
NFL Fantasy Football Podcast Co-host
Ready to dominate your fantasy league this season?
- [19:56]
Michael F. Florio
Then you need the NFL Fantasy Football Podcast. Your ultimate source for player news, draft tips and winning strategies.
- [20:03]
NFL Fantasy Football Podcast Co-host
Whether you're a rookie manager or a.
- [20:05]
Michael F. Florio
Fantasy vet, we've got the insight to help you crush your opponent.
- [20:09]
NFL Fantasy Football Podcast Co-host
Listen to the NFL Fantasy Football podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [20:18]
Ty
Toyota the official automotive partner of the NFL.
- [20:20]
Matt Jones
Visit toyota.com NFL now to learn more.
- [20:23]
Marcus Grant
Our power. And you know what I mean, because you guys got a really good group, talented group, young group, and now you get Micah Parsons. And it almost validates all that you guys have been and all that you guys are. Talk about his arrival and just your mentality because he seems like he fits right into the culture that you guys have built. You guys run, you practice hard, you hit, you, you. You care about one another. You guys just got a quality group of human beings.
- [20:47]
Evan Williams
Yeah, he really came in, you know, Day one, you're trying to, you know, feel. Feel him out. Just like, okay, see what he's about, you know, what, what. What cloth has he cut from. And then just for him to come and say what he said and I mean, just, you know, show that he's about the process. I think that was. That was the biggest thing for me, you know, that. That got me the most respect for me is just, you know, understand seeing how he practices, seeing how he carries himself. And yeah, like, he told the media, he's like, yeah, I'm, you know, I'm going to get my all, you know, I'm a guy that just plays fast, you know, and those guys better, you know, have my back because I'm going to be playing fast. And I know that this is a team that likes to do that. And so just for him to come out there and then literally first practice, you see his. His get off, he's chasing the ball down the field. And to have a guy, you know, that's worth that much chase the ball, you know, running across, you know, give his pass rush and then loop the quarterback and, you know, chase the receiver down like that, that's. That's impressive stuff. And that. That got all of our respect. Really, you know, the first couple of days, seeing him work and, yeah, I would say he fits our scheme perfect. You know, we. We're definitely a scheme that, you know, focuses on. On Russian coverage. Um, and, you know, when it's time for those big downs, those third downs, just letting our, you know, guys up front eat. And yeah, needless to say, he's a guy that can eat. You know, on them third rounds, he.
- [22:12]
Marcus Grant
He can eat, but it's other guys y' all had that been eating. Devontae Wyatt, obviously. Rashawn Gary, Luke Vanes gets his, gets his. He makes sure he gets his every time. Adrian Cooper look like he always getting his. That's. That's what's so incredible about this group. They were eighth in sacks last year. No Micah Parsons, you know, they had some hunters. And obviously you lose a great teammate in Kenny Clark, I've heard nothing but positive things about him. Great teammate, great human being. Everything in the Green Bay packers stand for, he represented. So I know that's tough to lose, but you get a player like Michael Parsons, you guys elevate defensively. You gotta be feeling good right now.
- [22:52]
Evan Williams
Yeah, absolutely, man. And you said it. I mean, we really had. We felt comfortable coming into this year, you know, without a Micah Parsons. Like, we. We had all the tools that we we needed. And we understood what we needed to do to, you know, get to where we want to be. And then, you know, adding Micah, even if he's not getting to the quarterback, he's. Again, he's opening these one on ones with, you know, the deepness that we have, you know, at AT D line, you got guys coming off, you know, that are fresh, coming out, out on third down that can just, you know, rush their ass off. And let me tell you, it makes. It. Makes it real easy on the back end. Makes it real easy for us.
- [23:28]
Marcus Grant
And he helps feed your DBs. And speaking of.
- [23:31]
Evan Williams
Oh, yeah, he helps you a bunch of food on our plate. Oh, yeah. Oh, yeah.
- [23:37]
Marcus Grant
The first week he there, he get a pressure on Jared Goff flash in front of him. You come out of your disguise. First off, we gonna talk about that, too. We're gonna talk about y' all late rotations and y' all disguises because y' all over there putting it on tape, and I love it. But talk about that play. Let's go there. And we don't got to go too deep in the scheme. I understand what you guys were running and all that, but I'm going to tell you what I thought it was on the tape and what you guys like, because it looked like three to me. It looked like you dropping into a hook from three, like a Yuma, or we used to call it maybe Phoenix Check or. You know what I mean? It looks like you dropping into a hook and X was rotating to the middle of the field and the corners was dropping to a third, and you had your flat defenders, et cetera, et cetera. But how late you rotated in and how fast you played and triggered it was. I mean, I just loved everything about it. Walk me through that.
- [24:35]
Evan Williams
Yeah, man, I said it before, but I feel like we won that down before the ball was even snapped, right? Like, you got to show the quarterback something and make him believe it. And so that. That, yeah, it definitely takes a lot of reps, right? That. That definitely took, you know, a year to develop. You know, just first understanding, okay, what I gotta be at at the snap, you know, understanding your assignment and what you got to do. But then also, okay, what are we trying to show as a whole? And how can I, you know, fit in that? But, yeah, that play we were showing. Showing, man, you know, just a one high, if not, man, and just a one high boundary rotation and kind of made it look more real with the. With the motion, you know, being able to. I was initially down, and then, you Know, spin and have X walk down again, give the quarterback what he wants to see. And we were actually getting a cover two on that play. X was going to be the middle runner. He came. I see why you say cover three because he was a little deep. He was deep, especially for. He was running to. Yeah, middle, you know, back line. Damn near because it was. It was low red. But no, yeah, I was. I was just getting to my. My curl landmark for cover two. And yeah, so coming out, you know, I was able to. They. They gave us a good snap key just because the place was roaring. Now it's third down. They got to give a silent count. And so you. You, you know, tie that in with the, you know, the clock running down in the background. You kind of see it gets a six, five. Okay. Ball's gotta, you know, something's gotta break, you know, and so was able to get that key. And then also knowing down the distance, okay, where I got to be, you know, what landmark should I do? I got to be. Should I be aggressive in this, you know, scenario? And I felt, you know, like I should have in. In that one. And then, yeah, knowing who was in the slot, they had Amon Ra with a. A really plus split from one like he was. And he's not. The. The guy at one wasn't like a. A fade ball type guy like that. You just throw out there and, you know, had that threat. And so, you know, they just trying to give him space. The ball's going to find them, you know, on these third downs. And so, yeah, and, you know, hold it to the last second and, you.
- [26:37]
Marcus Grant
Know, the corner got a backstop, so he can't run that out.
- [26:41]
Evan Williams
Exactly, exactly. I'm not worried about that. And so, yeah, it's really just trusting again, trusting your teammates, you know, trusting the scheme. And then, yeah, when your op comes, really just taking advantage of it. Saw the ball out, or I mean, saw him kind of Amon Ra in my peripheral kind of hookup right there. And Jared Goff initially looked at me, you know, for a little bit and then, you know, spiked his eyes to two. And really my, you know, my feet made the play before I was even aware. Just ran through it and thought I was gonna get a pbu, but, you know, came up with a nice little.
- [27:13]
Marcus Grant
But you want it to be great?
- [27:15]
Evan Williams
Oh, yeah. Good to great. You know what it is? You know what it is?
- [27:18]
Marcus Grant
I know exactly what it is. People be used. That's why I'm about to get on Keyshawn. That's why Look, I got Keyshawn next week. I'm on his. I'm on his hind parts.
- [27:28]
Evan Williams
Yeah, as you should be. As you should be. He's got to turn one of those into that boy, get some money.
- [27:32]
Marcus Grant
Five. Five knockdowns. And don't book none of them. You don't want no money. You don't want to be. You want to drive off in a Honda.
- [27:41]
Evan Williams
Yeah. Them PVUs pay rent. Them ints pay mortgages.
- [27:44]
Marcus Grant
They pay the mortgage, they buy the house.
- [27:47]
Evan Williams
They buy the house, you buy.
- [27:48]
Marcus Grant
You catch one of those, you catch two, you start having a whole different conversation. But.
- [27:54]
Evan Williams
But few houses.
- [27:55]
Marcus Grant
Yeah, a few houses. Few houses. Hey, Green Bay. I heard some Ford blouses. Come on now. Make yourself comfortable. Y' all want to continue?
- [28:01]
Evan Williams
Oh, yeah.
- [28:03]
Marcus Grant
I love the quote that you had after the game. You said, don't let victory mask your problems.
- [28:10]
Evan Williams
Ooh.
- [28:10]
Marcus Grant
People don't even understand that level of accountability that the wins ain't even. It's the process. It's the process. It's making sure you got great practice habits, making sure you correct the mistakes. The result is what it is. And that's a bro. That's such a cool process from you in your age, the maturity that you have to see it and the culture that you guys are building. Oh, my God, man. I just love to hear that quote. I'm sorry. I ain't even got a point or a question off of that.
- [28:38]
Evan Williams
Nah, I mean, and that's the truth, man, because the moment you let those victories stack and let that get in the way of you getting better, let that, you know, blind you from seeing the. The problems that you gotta fix is, you know, the day you get beat, day you get complacent. And so, yeah, it's always been about the process. Always been about getting a little better each. Each week, each day, however you can. And really, the. The result is the result. What you put on tape is what you put on tape.
- [29:04]
Marcus Grant
I love y' all chemistry back there. The three safety looks that y'. All. And then when you come and Javon moves to nickel and how he. First off, he. He played. He play way bigger than what he is.
- [29:15]
Evan Williams
Hell of a game he play.
- [29:16]
Marcus Grant
Yeah, he play big, and he plays fast. Y' all bring him in prepped and ready to go. He's ready made. Microwave dinner.
- [29:24]
Evan Williams
Oh, yeah, yeah.
- [29:24]
Marcus Grant
I'll bring him in quick. But you're. You're. You do such a great job. There's so much humility in the way you play and the way you operate back there with X. And that's what I'm not going to talk through everything in y' all scheme, because there's a lot of football and they got to figure out what y' all doing back there. We ain't going to tell them. But the way y' all rotate and the way y' all communicate to rotate and the way y' all make decisions to rotate and the freedom that Half gives y' all is such a cool thing. Not every coach is going to give young DBs the freedom to pretty much make it look like it needs to look. Make it happen the way it needs to happen. But he. He believes in how smart and how incredible of the players you are, and that's a. That's a cool trust to have from your dc.
- [30:08]
Evan Williams
No, yeah, absolutely. It was probably one of the times in our recent meetings he called us the quarterbacks of the defense, like the DB safety room. And I brought it back up in our just safety meeting. Just talking about, like, you know, it's doesn't always happen that, you know, a DC has that much trust. Just gives you the, you know, keys to the palace, just like that. And so that. That comes with a certain level of responsibility. Right? That comes with the accountability to, you know, handle your disguise, get everybody in the right track and that, you know, that all starts with communication. And so just, you know, being able to be the most efficient communicators on the field is, you know, first and foremost what we got to be. And we. We take a lot of pride in that. You know, me and X getting those calls to Bull down at Nickel and, yeah, you know, echoing it through the rest of the formation, that's really what makes our defense run.
- [31:05]
Marcus Grant
Y' all do a great job. And another thing that you see that jumps off on tape for you guys is the effort that you play with, and that's a thing that you. It takes no talent. Those are one of the things that take no talent. Any great defense, any truly great defense, they gonna jump off the tape like that. They're going to do the things that take no talent at a higher level. I'm sure if I went to y' all walkthrough, the attention to detail and that walkthrough, I guarantee you there's no passes completed. I guarantee you as guys where they supposed to be, it's probably noisy guys talking up a storm because that's great defense. And you can see it each and every week. So that's a testament to the work you guys put in, the care you guys have for one another. The standard you guys set and the standard that you guys are trying to reach every single day, I see nothing but greatness. I mean, even last year when y' all played the Eagles, I thought y' all played a great game. You know, unfortunately, the other side of the ball was pretty beat up. Y' all were beat up in the receiver room. It's hard to beat the eventual super bowl champs without a healthy receiver room. That would have said a lot about y'.
- [32:03]
Evan Williams
All.
- [32:03]
Marcus Grant
Y' all would have got that done. But let's talk about that offense. Jordan Love, four touchdowns, no interceptions. Josh Jacobs continuing to do what he does. That's another thing that allows for great defense, a run game and controlling the clock and the things they do each and every play, each and every week, they do a good job of turning your turnovers into points, into seven points and not three. Tell me how good that offense could be.
- [32:30]
Evan Williams
I mean, I think we've seen it through these first two games, and honestly, I feel like there's a different level that, you know, they can even tap into. We've been banged up a little bit, you know, early this year. Jay Reid, you know, just recently, you know, got banged up. But no, I mean, I feel like just the more comfortable people get in this scheme, you know, and MG starts to come alive, because he's going to come alive. You know, it's not a matter of right now, it's a matter of when, you know, because he's going to get his. But no, I mean, just to have that confidence in the, you know, getting the ball back to the offense is. Is everything from a defensive perspective. You know, it makes us want to, you know, run to the ball, attack the ball at the, you know, the highest level because, you know, you know, once. Once 10 gets the ball, he can do anything with it. He can, you know, sling at 60 yards downfield or run somebody over if he wants to. Don't do that again. But he can do it. You know, he did it.
- [33:28]
Marcus Grant
He just wanted to put it on tape.
- [33:29]
Evan Williams
But, yeah, yeah, yeah, I'm cool with that. Just do it once. Nah. But, yeah, being able to have that confidence in, you know, your offense to, you know, it just motivates you even more when you on the field to, all right, we get the ball back to our offense, that's points. Like, automatically. That's. That's points. And then having, obviously, having a run game, you know, be the way it is, you know, whenever it gets late in them games and you're up a couple scores. Call it. Josh Jacobs time, you know, because he could just take over a game. You just give him the ball and you know, see what kind of magic comes out of that. And he's been, you know, a workhorse for us these past two years. And yeah, I mean we got special guys all over that offense and we've sewn pieces but I feel like there's even more of a level that they could tap into coming down for the rest of the season.
- [34:15]
Marcus Grant
Oh, they're young too. They're young. You guys are young as a group and you're going to continue to grow. What's your goals? What were your goals coming into the season? Obviously you're on a great track already, but I just wanted to know what you big picture. I know the trophy is always the, the goal but what else?
- [34:34]
Evan Williams
Yeah, personally I wanted to just really be around the ball this year. Set my mind on, you know, double digit turnovers, you know, mixture of ints and forced fumbles. Definitely want to get some forced fumbles this year. This year. I feel like last year I was kind of not, not hunting it but just taking some downs. I would see myself just wanting to make the tackle more than being as ball aware as I can be. And I know that you know, when our whole defense is, you know, that's the only thing on our mind that we're, we're a pretty special group. So that's definitely first and foremost. Trying to get double digit turnovers was definitely something that you know, I'm looking forward to and yeah, I mean I could, I can name a bunch, you know, All Pro, Pro bowl, you know, those are all things that you know are goals in my mind but really the ultimate goal is going 1:0 every week and you know, obviously trying to make it to, to the highest level that we can and that's that super bowl baby.
- [35:32]
Marcus Grant
Yeah, no question about it. No question about it. Charles Woodson, a great all time packer, told me I've never seen a running back receiver leave without the ball. So if you want you once you grab at that ball they going down or they letting it go. And you know he's one of the great turnover machines of all time. 65 books.
- [35:50]
Evan Williams
That's ridiculous. That's ridiculous.
- [35:53]
Marcus Grant
It's dumb.
- [35:54]
Evan Williams
Was that like six a year?
- [35:55]
Marcus Grant
It's something, it's something really dumb. And, and a player of the year in like year 10 like oh my go in Green Bay. Oh my God. It's all timer.
- [36:04]
Evan Williams
Unreal. Yeah, yeah, we, we, we got his highlights pouring on that TV at all times.
- [36:09]
Marcus Grant
As you should, because you talk about a ball guy, a guy who. Who can get that rock. He was one of them. Anything else you want Green Bay packers fan base or the world to know about you before we get off and I stop taking your off day?
- [36:24]
Evan Williams
Nah. I mean, I already got a lift in, so not. Not really an off day, but. Nah, to Green Bay fans alike, just, you know, prepare for more. The same prepare, you know, for us. Giving our all each and every week. It's going to be a fun season. And just to you just want to say, you know, thank you for being all you are for the DB position. Really, you know, to me, you. You definitely, you know, reinvigorated the DB position, you know, as I'm coming through high school, especially with your path, you know, coming from receiver to. To db. I played a little receiver in high school and used to think that was cool, but, you know, you with the. The lob and. Yeah, Cam and et, y', all, y' all really just made the. The DB position, you know, brought a certain level of swagger to the DV position and confidence, and, yeah, that was. That was really cool for me. So just. Just want to say thank you on that part. You a legend, bro.
- [37:18]
Marcus Grant
That means. That means so much to me, brother. I mean, you know, you don't think about that through the. Through the process. You just trying to put good stuff on tape, play at a high level, and love the guys you around and honor the game and. And that means a lot more than I can express right now. I appreciate you honoring me, you know, doing this, coming on the podcast, doing it with me today, spending your time. I know you got your lift in, but I know it's your off day. You could be anywhere doing anything, and you decided to. To give me your time, and it means a lot.
- [37:45]
Evan Williams
Oh, yeah, absolutely, man. Appreciate you having me on again, any.
- [37:48]
Marcus Grant
Anytime. And I'm. I'm getting you again, y'. All. Y' all get that trophy right after you're done celebrating and doing all your thing. I'm gonna give you a month and a half coming back, and you gonna tell me about it.
- [37:59]
Evan Williams
Oh, yeah, Sounds good. Yeah, I'm cool with that plan. I'm cool with that plan.
- [38:02]
Marcus Grant
I love it. Appreciate you, brother. I'll see you next time.
- [38:05]
Evan Williams
Yes, sir. Appreciate you, man.
- [38:13]
Matt Jones
Hey, this is Matt Jones, and I'm Drew Franklin, and this is NFL Cover Zero. We're just here to try to get an NFL perspective a little bit different. Did you see the Colts pretzel? That was my other big takeaway from that game. What was that?
- [38:27]
Marcus Grant
Oh my.
- [38:28]
Matt Jones
We think NFL coverage should be informative and entertaining. And twice a week, that is exactly what you're going to get. Listen NFL Cover Zero with Matt Jones and Drew Franklin on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcast.
- [38:45]
Daniel Jeremiah
Hey everybody, Daniel Jeremiah here and I'm Bucky Brooks. On Move the Six. We take you inside the game from down college prospects and NFL rookies to.
- [38:54]
Bucky Brooks
Evaluating team building philosophies, coaching trends, and how front offices construct winning rosters.
- [39:00]
Daniel Jeremiah
We study the tape, talk to decision makers, and give you a perspective you won't find anywhere else.
- [39:06]
Bucky Brooks
It's everything you need to understand the why behind what happens on Sundays.
- [39:10]
Daniel Jeremiah
Don't miss it. Listen to the Move the Sticks podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [39:18]
Dan
I'm Dan. He's Ty.
- [39:19]
Evan Williams
Hello.
- [39:20]
Dan
And we're the solid verbal College Football Podcast.
- [39:24]
Ty
Tune in for previews, recaps, bits you won't hear anywhere else, and all the emotional support you need as a college football fan.
- [39:32]
Dan
Join us all season long as we ride the roller coaster of this ridiculous sport.
- [39:37]
Ty
Listen to the solid verbal college football podcasts on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [39:44]
Dan
We don't just love college football, Ty. We live it.
- [39:50]
Marcus Grant
I'm Marcus Grant.
- [39:52]
Michael F. Florio
And I'm Michael F. Florio, and together we host the NFL Fantasy Football Podcast.
- [39:57]
NFL Fantasy Football Podcast Co-host
Ready to dominate your fantasy league this season?
- [40:00]
Michael F. Florio
Then you need the NFL Fantasy Football Podcast, your ultimate source for player news, draft tips and winning strategies, whether you're.
- [40:07]
NFL Fantasy Football Podcast Co-host
A rookie manager or a fantasy vet.
- [40:09]
Michael F. Florio
That we've got the insight to help you crush your opponents.
- [40:12]
NFL Fantasy Football Podcast Co-host
Listen to the NFL Fantasy Football podcast on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts.
- [40:21]
Evan Williams
Toyota the official automotive partner of the NFL.
- [40:23]
Matt Jones
Visit toyota.com NFL now to learn more.
- [40:26]
Marcus Grant
This is an iHeart podcast.