The Arizona Cardinals faced a challenging decision during their Week 12 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars, ultimately opting for a field goal that led to overtime instead of attempting a final play for a touchdown. Head coach Jonathan Gannon defended this choice after the game, stating that the risk of an unsuccessful play was too high given the circumstances.
With only six seconds remaining in regulation and the ball positioned at the Jaguars’ 11-yard line, many observers believed the Cardinals could have made one last attempt at the end zone. Instead, Arizona chose to have Chad Ryland kick a field goal to tie the game at 24-24. Gannon explained, “At that point, with six seconds and no timeout, depending on what the defense does, I think you’re putting the team in harm’s way there, truthfully.”
The coach expressed concern about the potential outcomes of trying to squeeze in a risky play. He noted that the time taken—nearly 20 seconds—from Michael Wilson‘s reception to the next snap limited their options. Gannon reflected on the situation, stating, “When you put the team at risk because of what you’re trying to do, it can be a coin flip, and I didn’t love it.”
Gannon also addressed the decision to spike the ball versus running a play in that tense moment. He emphasized the importance of applying pressure on the defense after a significant gain. “I would’ve liked to see us get it off a little bit quicker,” he said. “When that ref starts backing out, you have to get that snapped if you’re going to have a chance for two plays down there.”
The Cardinals’ strategy has sparked discussions among fans and analysts alike, with varying opinions on the merits of their approach. Gannon acknowledged that while they had a plan, the execution fell short of the intended goal. He explained that the team aimed to surprise the defense with a one-on-one opportunity for Wilson. “It didn’t work out, but if you clock it there with that much time, you probably get two plays, and we only got off one,” he added.
As the Cardinals move forward, this game serves as a learning experience for Gannon and his coaching staff. The decision-making process in high-pressure situations is crucial in the National Football League (NFL), and every play can significantly impact the outcome of a game. The Cardinals will aim to refine their strategies as they prepare for their next opponents, looking to build on their experiences from this close contest against the Jaguars.
