Being called a game manager as a NFL quarterback isn’t a term of endearment. When that label is attached to you, the implication is you’re not good enough to lead your team to victory – simply serviceable enough not to cause defeat.
Questions about if he is or isn’t a “game manger” isn’t new for Teddy Bridgewater. He’s been answering them since his time in Minnesota. Wednesday, he told media he’s not worried about the label. The only thing that matters is how his teammates view him.
“If you win and don’t light up the stat sheet you’re considered a game manager. If you lose and light up the stat sheet you’re considered a gun-slinger. I just try to play this game to win. Whatever everyone wants to label you, that’s what it is. But at the end of the day, the only thing that matters is how my teammates see me, how this organization sees me and the way I carry myself on Sundays.”
When asked what he thought about Bridgewater being labeled a game manager, Coach Matt Rhule said he’s never thought of Teddy like that.
“I think Teddy is an excellent quarterback. I think he’s brought a young team back from double-digit deficits twice. When you do that you’re not a game manager.”
With Christian McCaffrey out with a high ankle sprain, this is undoubtedly Teddy’s team. The offense’s success will fall largely on his shoulders. Now is the time to shed the manager title. But in order to do so, Teddy is going to have to start turning those come-back campaigns into victories.