Look everyone. Mr. Got To Take Care Of No. 1 is now Mr. Team!
We speak, of course, of linebacker Clay Matthews. Inside linebacker Clay Matthews.
Out of necessity, that’s what Matthews has become. In week 2, the former pass rushing specialist didn’t play a single snap at outside linebacker. He rushed the passer only three times and (gasp!) Matthews hasn’t registered a sack yet this season.
These things shouldn’t be notable for an inside linebacker, but Matthews is a reluctant inside linebacker. He wants to play outside. He wants to sack the quarterback.
That’s where the glory is. That’s where the gaudy stats are.
Yeah, we’ve been beating the shit out of this guy since the NFC Championship game, but he’s deserved it.
Now, he’s playing the good soldier.
He’s doing what is being asked of him and he isn’t complaining. And yes, that hasn’t gone unnoticed and we do respect that, even though it’s what you’re supposed to do.
Matthews has also taken on a leadership role on defense, at least in terms of calling out the formations and making sure guys are in the right place.
He’s even saying the right things.
“I think it’s just about the team’s needs right now,” Matthews said.
“You’ve seen the results and what’s come of playing all over the place, specifically inside. Statistically speaking, our defense has improved since last year at the midway point. Can’t argue with that. Can’t argue with the fact we’re 2-0.”
And there’s really the telling quote.
Clay Matthews — not concerned about stats. Just concerned about winning.
We just might be able to get behind this guy again. At least until he walks out during a key game with some phantom injury…