Q: The receiving corps has taken a significant hit with injuries. How does that prevent you from doing your job?
A: You're fighting this all the way through camp but it is going to happen. It's a part of it, and it's a part nobody likes, everybody on the field. All the guys here want to be on the field practicing, they know that's how we get better. It's been a challenge, and I think the group has done a good job with other people stepping up and doing what they can to make plays when they get the opportunity. In terms of that, I'm happy with it. We're just looking to get everyone back on the field.
Q: What has Ramses Barden shown you so far this camp?
A: I think he has done an outstanding job in camp so far. I think he's made the most of the opportunities he's had, and that really jumps out at me. When he has plays out there to make, he makes them. That has stood out to me. He has been more aggressive, in my mind, watching him on tape and seeing him block, and get up with people on defensive. In those two ways, I think he has done a good job of stepping up.
Q: Is it tough that some of your biggest receivers won't be available to play?
A: Again, you would love to have them all. To get those reps in a game situation, in game speed, you would love to have that. At the same time, we are going to lean on these other guys to make plays and step up. It's a great opportunity for them, and that's the way we are approaching it. There are still going to be plays to be made, and whoever is out there is going to make them. That's the mindset going in.
Q: Have you had time to reflect on the success you've had in your career?
A: No, not really. My biggest concern, as this question was asked a couple weeks ago, is just doing your job at the time. I'm trying to be the best I can be at this job right now. In terms of looking back and thinking about it and patting myself on the back, not at all. Haven't had time to do that.
Q: Has it made your job more difficult or easier when the locals come to see you?
A: When it comes to people coming to practice, it's been nice to see everyone. I don't think it's had a major effect on me one way or the other. It's good to see people, and people come out and support you. In terms of my everyday job, it hasn't made that much of a difference.
Q: Any other young receiver who has stood out to you?
A: Victor Cruz has done a really good job. I think he's done a good job of mastering the offense and now getting to the point where he's working on the little things you can do in the offense to make himself better. He has made some big plays down the field, too. He stood out to me.
Q: Tim Brown has too, right?
A: Yeah, he has. He's fast, he gets on the field, and he stretches the defense. He has done a nice job for us.
Q: How much did you prepare for Revis?
A: It's great because you know the Jets are talented, and there is nothing else you'd rather have in the preseason than to see what you could face. Obviously, we won't face him, and that's fine. Whoever we face is good for us to get into the live action and that kind of game speed. We're excited to get out and play against whoever lines up against us.
Q: Is it rewarding for these younger players to be playing well?
A: Yeah, absolutely. Whenever you as a coach, you get to see progress. If you feel that you have a hand in that, that is what it's all about. You're trying to help these guys get better. Definitely, if I can help these guys get better and do my part, it's rewarding, no doubt.
Q: Has Tim Brown's chances been hurt by his injury?
A: No. Not at all. Tim's focus and our focus is to get him back as soon as we can and pick up wherever we left off.
Q: Where is that? Where did he leave off?
A: I think he makes plays. He has the ability to do that with his feet. Tim's game consistency has to come. There are flashes of really good plays and certainly the ability. Now we have to get him to a level where he can be more consistent.
Q: Do you ever think back and wonder what life would have been like if you had stayed in your sales job?
A: Yes, sure. I think everyone does that, right? No matter what you do for a living, I think you probably think about the different paths you could have taken and where that would lead you now. Yes, like anyone I guess I do that. I don't spend too much time on that.
Q: But this is your diehard passion:
A: Yes. Had I not chosen coaching, I'd think a lot more about this then I ever would have the other way around.
Q: Has Coach Coughlin been hassling you? Every time the media asks about you, he says 'again?'
A: He doesn't hassle me, he just goes after me with you guys and when we're alone. He's good that way.
Q: What are your thoughts on the group going into the game?
A: I think it's an obvious that this is a talented group. Time and again, the challenge is to get it to be consistent with the consistent playmaking and that's what we're working towards. I think the potential is great – everybody knows that. We saw it last year in the job Sully did with them – getting them to play. We're just going to continue to do that, build upon it, and grow with it – that's my job now.
Q: Do you have a prediction for the Hudson Falls team?
A: Yeah. I think they're going to win the state championship – every year. That's the goal.
