Life as an NFL coach is always challenging, but Arizona Cardinals defensive coordinator Nick Rallis faced a uniquely demanding situation leading up to the team’s matchup against the Chicago Bears. Just hours before kickoff, Rallis and his wife, Devin, welcomed their second son, Dominick, into the world. However, even in the midst of this joyous moment, the dedicated coach knew he still had a job to do.
A Game Plan From the Hospital Room
In a testament to his unwavering commitment, Rallis found himself reviewing his game plan from the hospital room, a mere hour after Dominick’s birth. With the blessing of his wife, the coach dove into his preparations, determined to ensure his defense was ready for the impending clash with the Bears.
Normally, Rallis’ pregame routine involves reciting his plan and calls verbally to Devin on Fridays. On Sundays, he typically visits the Cardinals’ facility for a cold plunge before heading to a coffee shop alone to mentally rehearse his defensive play-calling. However, the arrival of baby Dominick threw a wrench into this well-established routine.
Adapting to Unconventional Circumstances
Rather than his usual cold plunge, Rallis had to settle for a dip in his pool, which he described as feeling more like a bath than a chilled therapy tank. And instead of mentally rehearsing his calls over coffee, he found himself verbalizing them to Devin right there in the hospital room.
“Our doula was looking at us, like, ‘What is going on right here?’ Like, ‘I’m not sure what this guy’s talking about,'” Rallis recounted. “I’m just sitting there talking to my wife, like, ‘OK, 11 personnel, here’s the calls: Blah blah blah, blah blah, blah blah. If they go to this, I got to go to this.'”
Nick Rallis, Arizona Cardinals Defensive Coordinator
Despite the unusual setting, Rallis managed to complete his game-planning process, a feat he described as “cool” given the circumstances.
A Day of Chaos and Triumph
The entire day was a whirlwind for the new father and coach. Rallis arrived at State Farm Stadium just two hours before kickoff, slightly later than his typical arrival time. However, his defense rose to the occasion, sacking Bears rookie quarterback Caleb Williams six times en route to a dominant 29-9 victory.
After the game, Rallis had to borrow a toothbrush from equipment manager Jeff Schwimmer so he could spend the night at the hospital with his expanded family. There, he got to relish some quality time with his newborn son, whose middle name, Kyzir, was chosen in honor of Cardinals linebacker Kyzir White – a player Rallis described as the “ultimate teammate.”
A Testament to Dedication and Teamwork
Nick Rallis’ experience serves as a powerful reminder of the delicate balance many professionals must strike between their personal lives and demanding careers. His ability to adapt, prepare, and lead his defense to victory amidst such profound life changes is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and the unwavering support of his wife and team.
As the Cardinals continue their season, Rallis’ story stands as an inspiration to coaches, players, and fans alike. It underscores the importance of family, the power of preparation, and the remarkable things that can be achieved when individuals are willing to go the extra mile – even if that means reviewing a game plan from a hospital room just moments after welcoming a new life into the world.
