Harry
ASFN Consultant and Senior Writer
The Arizona Sports Cards Insider has taken on the issue of Murray’s leadership abilities. They correctly point out that numerous writers are still harping on the old theme that Murray is not a true leader. To their credit the article does a good job of quoting current players who support Murray. It also credits the new administration with supporting Murray in this respect. All of that is correct.
However, I think they missed the biggest reason there was an issue to begin with: Kliff Kingsbury. I don’t think he wanted a leader. I think he is like one of the dominating parents who wants to live their life vicariously through their kids. He didn’t want a QB who thought for himself. The virtual lack of audibles indicates to me that Kingsbury pressured Murray to run the plays he called. Murray was allowed to sit by himself between drives rather than having a coach with a tablet showing Murray what he was facing. It wasn’t important. Kingsbury would decide on any game-plan adjustments. Murray’s job was to throw the ball or run for his life. He was not expected to manage the game. I think the vast majority of game-plan faults laid with Murray’s failure to execute.
I hardly ever recall Kingsbury speaking with Murray on the sideline to inquire what Murray was seeing or even to encourage him. Murray was simply a weapon, not a director of action. Growing Murray’s ability to manage a game was not a role Kingsbury felt required to fulfill. Murray’s function was mechanical.
I admit I was critical of Murray’s leadership in his early years. Since then I have re-examined his situation and concluded he was in a no-win scenario. I’m not certain how Kingsbury will fare in his new role. I am, however, convinced the Cards’ staff has bought into Murray’s ability to lead. From the players’ reaction I also think Murray will adequately fulfill that aspect of his role. This is a new era for Arizona and I think the team will take a major step forward not only this season but for several years to come.
However, I think they missed the biggest reason there was an issue to begin with: Kliff Kingsbury. I don’t think he wanted a leader. I think he is like one of the dominating parents who wants to live their life vicariously through their kids. He didn’t want a QB who thought for himself. The virtual lack of audibles indicates to me that Kingsbury pressured Murray to run the plays he called. Murray was allowed to sit by himself between drives rather than having a coach with a tablet showing Murray what he was facing. It wasn’t important. Kingsbury would decide on any game-plan adjustments. Murray’s job was to throw the ball or run for his life. He was not expected to manage the game. I think the vast majority of game-plan faults laid with Murray’s failure to execute.
I hardly ever recall Kingsbury speaking with Murray on the sideline to inquire what Murray was seeing or even to encourage him. Murray was simply a weapon, not a director of action. Growing Murray’s ability to manage a game was not a role Kingsbury felt required to fulfill. Murray’s function was mechanical.
I admit I was critical of Murray’s leadership in his early years. Since then I have re-examined his situation and concluded he was in a no-win scenario. I’m not certain how Kingsbury will fare in his new role. I am, however, convinced the Cards’ staff has bought into Murray’s ability to lead. From the players’ reaction I also think Murray will adequately fulfill that aspect of his role. This is a new era for Arizona and I think the team will take a major step forward not only this season but for several years to come.
