McVay----
(On how working with Seahawks LB Bobby Wagner, studying and being a
student of the game has helped LB Ernest Jones make all the plays that
he’s made this year)
“I think Ernest would be better equipped to answer in terms of…I know Bobby
had a tremendous influence just watching his everyday approach and his
preparation, but Ernest is extremely conscientious. I think one of his things is
he's got a great concept trigger. He really has a good understanding of what to
expect and anticipate. And really, he and (Linebackers Coach) Chris Shula
have such a cool relationship in terms of their weekly rhythm. It's why he's got
the dot.
He's really starting to understand and own the intent of, alright, why is
(Defensive Coordinator) Raheem (Morris) or the defensive coaches calling
certain things? What are we really trying to get out of it? And it's all
encompassing to the run game, to the pass game, to protections. And he’s
been outstanding, but I thought it was a great example for him to be able to
have Bobby to see what that really looks like.
You guys have heard me talk
about it, there's nothing more powerful than seeing and really somebody
modeling the way. And obviously, we know what a pro's pro Bobby is but I think
Ernest has really done a great job of continuing to take his game in the right
direction and then just his overall charisma and presence and the way that he
elevates people.
He's got such an authentic play energy that I think has been
instrumental in a lot of good things, not only for the defense, but for our team.
One of the coolest things Kirk Herbstreit mentioned to me after the game was
watching how excited Ernest gets for the offensive guys and just this team and
the connection. And Ernest is certainly one of those great representations of
that and I've really been super proud and happy for the things that he's done
and we got to keep it going.”