Comment on this storyCommentTavita Pritchard has built a successful career by adapting and adjusting to new circumstances. Sixteen years ago, he found himself thrust into a starting role as a redshirt sophomore quarterback, only to be benched two years later. Throughout his life out west, he has navigated changes and shifting dreams. Now, Pritchard is facing a new challenge as he adjusts to life on the East Coast after being hired as the quarterbacks coach for the Washington Commanders.
In his new role, Pritchard plays a crucial role in the team’s offensive transformation, which has required him to make adjustments, including getting used to the team’s burgundy-and-gold color scheme. Initially, he thought the colors resembled those of his Pac-12 rival, USC. However, he quickly realized the difference and requested a black jacket instead.
Pritchard’s focus in Ashburn, Virginia, is quite different from his days as a star quarterback at Stanford. He now serves as a mentor to 22-year-old Sam Howell and veteran Jacoby Brissett as they navigate a new offense and compete for the starting quarterback position, likely favoring Howell.
However, Pritchard faces a steep challenge. The Commanders have gone through eight starting quarterbacks in the past three seasons, and they are revamping their offense to implement a West Coast system under offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. Time is not on their side, as the franchise is on track to be sold, making this season a crucial tryout for everyone involved.
The success of the team, particularly the quarterback, will significantly impact the futures of the players and coaches. Pritchard’s performance as the quarterbacks coach could shape the future of the franchise.
Throughout his 18 years at Stanford, Pritchard played and coached in the West Coast offense developed by Bill Walsh, which serves as the foundation for various NFL offenses, including Andy Reid’s with the Kansas City Chiefs. This system emphasizes timing, with routes synchronized with the quarterback’s drops, and utilizes intermediate passes to stretch the field horizontally. In contrast, the Commanders previously used Scott Turner’s version of the Air Coryell offense, which focuses on stretching the field vertically. Pritchard acknowledges that the complexity of the West Coast offense requires quarterbacks to master its extensive language and visualize plays.
Although Pritchard has had to adapt to Bieniemy’s terminology, his deep understanding of the principles of the West Coast offense aids his transition. Former Stanford coach David Shaw praises Pritchard’s ability to visualize and manipulate the game, making him an exceptional coach.
Pritchard began his coaching career at Stanford in 2010, initially as a volunteer assistant and later as a defensive quality control coach. This experience provided him with valuable insights into both offense and defense, as he learned to analyze the game from the defensive perspective. Pritchard’s coaching skills blossomed as his understanding of the game deepened, and he became adept at simplifying complex concepts for his players.
Pritchard’s coaching journey took off when he led Stanford to a historic upset over USC in 2007, earning him the nickname “Andrew Luck’s first quarterback coach.” Although Pritchard’s NFL dreams as a player were cut short, coaching allowed him to remain involved in the game and connect with players. The positive impact he had on his players led to a successful five-year tenure as Stanford’s offensive coordinator.
Before joining the Commanders, Pritchard crossed paths with Bieniemy during the NFL’s annual quarterback coaching summit, where they discussed various aspects of the game. Their connection paved the way for Pritchard’s current role in Washington, as Bieniemy expressed interest in bringing him on board if given the opportunity.
Since joining the Commanders, Pritchard has spent time familiarizing himself with Bieniemy’s offense and studying tape of his quarterbacks, particularly Sam Howell. Pritchard has been impressed with Howell’s mental approach and attitude, noting that the young quarterback is eager to learn and grow.
As the Commanders gear up for the upcoming season, Pritchard’s ability to adapt, adjust, and mentor the quarterbacks will play a crucial role in the team’s success. His performance will not only impact the outcome of games but also shape the future of the franchise.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
