Those of you who are familiar with the coaching style of Andy Reid know that he's very slow to criticize his players publicly. That's why I was stunned when he scolded his defense today at practice.
A number of times this morning during a relatively short workout Andy walked over the defensive huddle and started reprimanding them for letting the backup offense move the ball against them. Ryan Moats juked his way to about five yards up the middle. A.J. Feeley connected with Jason Avant on a slant route for about 7 or 8 yards. After each play Reid walked over the defense and let them know he was happy with their performance.
Finally Reid just blew his stack, looked over at the defensive huddle with Jeremiah Trotter standing out front getting ready to make the call, and said, "I guess I need to get Gaither back in here" Yes that's what he said and he knew that all of the reporters were within earshod to hear his statement. Clearly this statement was aimed at middle linebacker Jeremiah Trotter. Gaither had made a few plays earlier in the practice and has had an outstanding camp.
In all fairness Trot has had a good camp as well but he just can't do much against the pass any more. Gaither on the other hands has gotten better. He's got a fresh pair of legs and a nose for the football. It's going to be very interesting how they use these guys as the season continues. Stay tuned.
