The life of a backup quarterback is a delicate balance of preparation and anticipation. While the spotlight shines on the starting quarterback, the backup, like Joshua Dobbs, quietly navigates a week of rigorous training and strategic planning. Let's delve into the seven-day journey of a backup QB, as we explore the routine of Joshua Dobbs, who has played for nine NFL teams in nine seasons. But here's where it gets controversial... Is the backup QB's role truly underappreciated, or is it a strategic advantage for the team? And this is the part most people miss... The backup QB's role extends beyond the field, influencing team dynamics and contributing to the success of the entire offense. So, what does a backup QB do all week?
Monday:
The week begins with a recovery focus, as players lift weights twice a week, with Dobbs doing it three times. He reviews the game plan, typically alongside Drake Maye, and prepares for the week ahead. Despite not playing, he treats Mondays as if he did, prioritizing recovery through saunas and cold tubs.
Tuesday:
A quieter day for players, but not for quarterbacks. Dobbs and Maye arrive at Gillette Stadium early to review scouting reports and create presentations for the quarterbacks. This unique practice allows them to prepare for upcoming opponents. After a workout focused on the upper body, he heads home to review plays and prepare for Wednesday's meetings.
Wednesday:
The longest day for players, as they install the game plan and practice. Dobbs arrives early, participates in a devotional, and heads to the quarterbacks' meeting room to finalize play drawings. He knows most of the early-down game plan and has questions about play reads. After practice, he stays to review plays with receivers, ensuring a thorough understanding of the offense.
Thursday:
Similar to Wednesday, but with a focus on third-down plays and situational football. Dobbs reviews these plays, ensuring he's prepared for any scenario. He leaves the facility around 6:30 p.m., ready to draw out third-down plays for the next day.
Friday:
The final prep day is dedicated to the red zone. All quarterbacks meet with coaches to review the plan, ensuring a comprehensive understanding. The day concludes with a practice, and the nerves from learning a new game plan have subsided. By Friday, the quarterbacks know the plays they'll run on Sunday.
Saturday:
A day for skill position players to meet with quarterbacks, ensuring everyone is on the same page. Dobbs gets to sleep in, and the QBs review the game plan one last time before heading to the team hotel. He plays stadium background noise and calls out plays on the call sheet, ensuring he's prepared for the game.
Sunday:
The day of the game. Dobbs arrives early, tries to get breakfast with his fiancée, and prepares mentally. He wears his helmet on the sideline, ready to step in if needed. He watches the defense, offering insights to Maye and McDaniels, and treats the day as if he's playing, staying locked in on the game. And this is the part most people miss... The backup QB's role is not just about being prepared; it's about contributing to the team's success and ensuring the offense is ready for any challenge.
