While many tend to cast off the importance of preseason games, they are make-or-break opportunities for players to solidify their spots on the 53-man roster. Analysts Logan Paulsen, Santana Moss and Fred Smoot discussed what they want to see from those players on the Command Center Podcast.
"Who makes the big play? Who finds the explosive opportunity? That's why I like the preseason," Paulsen said.
As Washington alumni, Moss, Smoot and Paulsen have experienced their share of preseason games. Though these games may not seem as competitive, it's a time for coaches to evaluate key player attributes and see how they can apply their skills in moments of situational football.
For Moss, he is most interested in seeing how players fit into the scheme and how they can apply what they've learned throughout training camp to the game.
"We talk about this every year: alignment and assignment. How do we follow instructions? How do you pay attention to detail?" Moss said.
Former defensive back Smoot emphasized that being detail oriented is crucial. However, in the moments that mistakes happen, it's also important that coaches see that adjustments are made.
"When it comes to the coach looking at his team, he wants to see if the young players can correct the mistakes they make at practice," Smoot said. "They will get players cut for continuously making the same mistakes."
Paulsen added that there are also components to the preseason games that coaches can't normally get from the players in practice.
"There's a physical element though, that you want to see. I think about Kain Medrano. At practice he looks amazing. Like the way he covers, the way he moves, he's got great ball skills. I want to see him put the Riddell on. Like can he figure it out?" Paulsen said.
Preseason is well underway, and players will be securing spots on the roster through the details, corrections, and physicality on the field. Though it may not seem to carry the same weight as a regular season game, it remains just as competitive for some players.
