Cam Skattebo faced a tough outing during the Giants’ loss against the Saints for one particular reason, but his reaction has been humble and one that is focused on growth.
Cam Skattebo is a New York Giants fan-favourite, to say the least. During their Week 5 tie with the Washington Commanders, though, the running back committed a cardinal sin at a crucial moment. Skattebo fumbled the football with the team already in field-goal range, costing them a crucial opportunity to win.
There are very few things that coaches dislike at the highest level of football more than poor ball security. Any NFL running back faces massive scrutiny if they do end up losing the football. Skattebo is no different, although his punishment seemingly went well beyond the criticism.
Cam Skattebo says he understands why he wasn’t given any carries in Saints loss
It seems John Harbaugh wasn’t interested in messing about when it came to this situation. Skattebo is certainly going to have to earn his coach’s trust back. In their Week 6 loss against New Orleans, the running back was only on the field for six snaps and was not called upon for a single carry.
Najee Harris took up the role instead, and it will have been fairly embarrassing for Skattebo. Some NFL stars might get upset if this happens, but the 24-year-old’s response to it revealed a surprising amount of maturity.
“I got punished for what I did and I understand it,” Skattebo said. “I gotta be ready when coach calls my name and that wasn’t today. The message was keep your head down and keep going. They understand the type of player I am and I just gotta continue to do my job and do it to the best of my abilities.
“It’s hard, but I’ve made mistakes and I got to own up to them. If that is what they want to do, keep me on the sidelines because of that, I totally understand. I can’t make mistakes at this level of this game and when you make mistakes like that, consequences will be had.”
While Cam sometimes comes off as someone who is all about his swagger and emotions on the field, Skattebo has proven that he is also quite introspective and responsible. The running back will have his number called again soon enough, and he’s likelier than not to really pop off when that happens.
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