Sir Purr
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- Mar 16, 2019
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That was one of several mentions Monday that he needed to be better. The shift in tone was subtle, but it was clear. And it's not as if Bridgewater hasn't been out front of the Panthers' rebuilding efforts this year.
Quarterbacks aren't required to talk to reporters on Mondays, but he generally has and was the only player available as the Panthers headed into their bye week.
It's not something every quarterback does, and fair or unfair, there's a higher burden of responsibility for that position.
After Sunday's loss, head coach Matt Rhule said the loss fell on the coaching staff, and he expounded on that Monday. He also said that as the Panthers try to create something new, it's important for every player to own their own mistakes.
"I think it sets a culture of accountability for all of us," Rhule said. "That's really what all of us have to do. I walked into the locker room with the team, and to the press conference, and said we lost this game as a head coach, and we lost that game as assistant coaches. You say that because it's how you feel and you believe it's right.
"Then the great teams, the offensive line says, 'Wait a minute, no I could have done this, this, and this.' Then the linebackers say, 'Wait a minute coach, I could have done this, this, and this.' And then everybody takes accountability for what they could have done better, and you grow as a team.
"I didn't hear what Teddy said, but if he did, then that to me is what leadership is. Leadership is not leading from the back, it's leading from the front. And when you're out front, you take the most bullets, but you also know there's people behind you. That's what we're trying to build, an organization, a franchise where everyone feels responsible for winning, everyone takes accountability, we enjoy the wins together, we suffer the losses together, we win a championship eventually together."