Before the Big Clash With 49ers, Head Coach Jonathan Gannon Surprisingly Praises Brock Purdy – But the Way He Says It Makes Everyone Understand That Cardinals Are Aiming Straight at One Target
Phoenix, Arizona.
The atmosphere before the matchup between the Arizona Cardinals and San Francisco 49ers is heating up by the hour, but the unexpected focus comes from the Cardinals' press conference room. Head coach Jonathan Gannon draws media attention when giving rare praise to Brock Purdy – the one who just returned after a prolonged toe injury for many weeks.
In the interview, Gannon does not overhype but gives a highly tactical comment:
“Purdy is the type of player that you absolutely cannot underestimate. He is very smart, processes quickly and always knows how to keep the game within control. When Purdy finds the rhythm, he can cause a lot of difficulties for any defense.”
However, just a few seconds after the praise, Gannon quickly changes tone — and this is the part that draws everyone's attention:
“We understand that clearly. That is why the entire Arizona team will pour all focus into Purdy. Not letting him be comfortable, not allowing the 49ers to establish the game rhythm. This is our top priority in this game.”
Experts say this is a “praise to target” tactic, a form of public tactical message to create pressure on the opponent's QB, while affirming the Cardinals have identified Purdy as the key to the 49ers that they must strike at all costs.
When asked about Gannon's statement, Brock Purdy just lightly smiles — the familiar calm demeanor:
“I appreciate what he says. But my job does not change,”
Purdy calmly shared.
“I missed a few weeks and had to try very hard to get back to the right rhythm. The injury time gave me more humility and determination. I do not let comments—whether praise or doubt—disrupt my preparation.”
The short but full of character answer shows Purdy is not swayed by psychological tactics before the game.
In the context where the 49ers just went through a series of consecutive injuries, while the Cardinals are looking for ways to turn the season around, the upcoming matchup is not only a confrontation on the field but also a clear battle of wits between Gannon and Purdy. The Cardinals head coach has publicly pointed out his number one target, while the young QB of the 49ers responds with familiar coolness.
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