In the high-stakes world of NFL football, a quarterback’s demeanor can speak volumes. Seattle Seahawks signal-caller Geno Smith recently opened up about his ongoing quest to perfect his “poker face” on the gridiron, particularly in the wake of the team’s frustrating 31-20 loss to the Buffalo Bills.
Keeping His Cool Under Pressure
Smith, known for his competitive fire, admitted that he let his emotions get the best of him at times during the defeat. From tossing the ball at a defender after a perceived late hit to visibly agonizing on the sideline following an interception, the 34-year-old veteran wore his heart on his sleeve throughout the game.
“Those are things that I can’t have happen,” Smith confessed. “Obviously, everyone’s watching me, so if I’m upset, they get a little antsy. So I’ve just got to have a better poker face and just work on it.”
The Importance of Poise
Head coach Mike Macdonald emphasized the significance of Smith maintaining his composure, especially given his role as the offensive leader. Macdonald noted that while the team wants Smith to channel his competitive drive, it’s crucial for him to be a steadying presence during chaotic moments.
We’re going to follow the demonstration that he provides, for our offense and the rest of the team. Give him a chance to take a deep breath and go back and attack.
– Coach Mike Macdonald
Macdonald believes that by staying poised under pressure, Smith can help the entire squad come together and overcome adversity rather than succumbing to frustration.
Finding the Right Balance
For Smith, the challenge lies in harnessing his passion without letting it become detrimental to the team. He acknowledges that his competitive nature is a double-edged sword – a driving force behind his success but also a potential hindrance when left unchecked.
“I’m really not a great loser,” Smith admitted. “It sucks. I hate it. I need to, overall, when I watch myself … just continue to uplift the guys, and if I’m being honest, do a better job at times when we’re down.”
The quarterback understands that striking the right balance is an ongoing process, one that requires constant self-evaluation and improvement. By refining his emotional control, Smith believes he can become an even more effective leader for the Seahawks.
Leading by Example
As Seattle looks to bounce back from their recent slump, all eyes will be on Geno Smith – not just for his on-field performance but also for his demeanor in the face of adversity. By mastering his poker face and leading by example, Smith can inspire his teammates to maintain their focus and resilience, no matter the score.
In a league where the mental game is often just as crucial as physical prowess, Smith’s journey to emotional mastery may well be the key to unlocking the Seahawks’ full potential. As he continues to grow as a leader, both on and off the field, fans and teammates alike will be watching closely – and hoping that his poker face will help guide Seattle back to the top.
