After Another Tough Loss, Dan Quinn Stays Steady, Highlights Growth and Grit
It’s been a long season, and Monday’s press conference had a familiar tone for Dan Quinn - another loss, another round of questions. But this time, after an overtime defeat to the Broncos, Quinn didn’t sound defeated. He pointed to the fight his team showed, the energy they brought, and the resilience that hasn’t faded despite the standings saying otherwise.
“This team’s still swinging,” Quinn said, and in a year where the wins haven’t come easy, that matters. There’s no sugarcoating the record, but Quinn made it clear: the effort isn’t in question.
Coaching Shake-Up: Tavita Pritchard Out, David Blough Steps Up
There’s a new chapter starting for Tavita Pritchard, who’s leaving the staff to take over as head coach at Stanford. That move opens the door for assistant quarterbacks coach David Blough, who will be promoted to quarterbacks coach for the rest of the season. Blough, a former NFL quarterback himself, now takes on a larger role in guiding the team’s signal-callers through the final stretch.
He won’t be alone in that task. Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Pass Game Coordinator Brian Johnson will also lend a hand in coaching the quarterbacks over the last five games. It’s a collaborative effort, and with uncertainty still looming at the position, the timing couldn’t be more critical.
Jayden Daniels Still Not Cleared, But Progressing
The quarterback situation remains fluid. Jayden Daniels isn’t cleared for contact yet following a dislocated elbow, but he was back on the field today - and by all accounts, he was letting it rip. Quinn noted Daniels was “ripping” throws during practice, an encouraging sign, even if it’s too early to make a call on his availability.
Because of the nature of the injury - not your typical sprain or strain - the team is focusing on “functional contact” in practice. That means simulating game-like situations without putting Daniels at risk. A final decision on his game status won’t come until Friday, but for now, the arrow appears to be pointing in the right direction.
Offensive Line Holds Up Against Denver’s Pressure
One of the bright spots from the loss was the performance of the offensive line, which held its own against a Broncos defense that’s been heating up. Quinn singled out the group for their effort in pass protection, a phase of the game that’s been inconsistent this season.
He made special mention of Sam Cosmi, who, according to Quinn, played his best game since returning from ACL surgery. That’s no small praise, especially considering the challenge Denver’s front poses. For a line that’s been reshuffled more than once this year, Sunday’s showing was a step forward.
Treylon Burks’ TD Catch: “Unbelievable”
Sometimes, even in a loss, a single play can stand out - and Treylon Burks delivered one of those moments. Quinn finally got a good look at Burks’ touchdown catch from Sunday, and his reaction said it all: “unbelievable.”
It was the kind of grab that reminds you why Burks was such a highly touted prospect. Physical, focused, and flat-out athletic - it was a highlight in a game that didn’t have many. Plays like that don’t just show up on the stat sheet; they build confidence and momentum, especially for a young receiver still finding his rhythm.
Youth Movement vs. Veteran Presence
As the season winds down, the question of playing time becomes more strategic. Do you give more reps to younger players to accelerate their development, or lean on veterans to stabilize the ship? Quinn acknowledged that balance is something the staff is constantly evaluating.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Some young players are clearly ready for more, while others benefit from watching and learning. Quinn emphasized that the team is trying to make smart choices - ones that serve both the short-term competitiveness and the long-term growth of the roster.
Defensive Playcalling: Quinn Not Ruling Out Future Role
One of the more intriguing developments in recent weeks has been Quinn taking over defensive playcalling duties from Joe Whitt. And the early returns?
Promising. The defense has looked sharper, more aggressive, and better at finishing drives - a noticeable shift.
When asked if he might continue calling plays next season, Quinn didn’t shut the door. “It’s possible,” he said, though he added that those conversations haven’t happened yet. For now, it’s about doing what’s best for the team in the moment - and right now, that means Quinn holding the reins on defense.
Final Takeaway
There’s no hiding from the record, but there’s also no denying the signs of growth. Whether it’s a young quarterback working his way back, a reshuffled coaching staff stepping up, or a defense finding its edge again, this team isn’t mailing it in. Dan Quinn’s message is clear: they’re still in the fight, and they’re still building something - even if it’s not showing up in the win column just yet.