Frank Reich: Will He Call Plays From the Booth or Sideline?

Will Frank Reich call plays for the New York Jets from the booth or the sideline this season? It may seem like a minor detail, but it could affect how Reich communicates with Geno Smith and manages the offense on game day. This is a topic in the JetNation Forums right now, with speculation about where Frank Reich will be and who will make that decision. The conversation began after radio chatter suggested that the Jets may prefer to have Reich work from the booth.

The source of that information was unclear, so this should not be treated as a confirmed report. It does raise an interesting football question as the Jets prepare to begin training camp.

The Benefits of Calling Plays From the Sideline for Frank Reich

Reich has extensive experience calling plays and has generally preferred working from the sideline. That location allows an offensive coordinator to speak directly with his quarterback, talk with players between possessions and get an immediate feel for how the offense is responding. That direct communication could be especially valuable while Geno Smith learns Reich’s offense.

Smith is an experienced quarterback, but he will still need to learn Reich’s terminology, preferences and approach to calling a game. After a drive ends, Reich can sit with Smith, review what happened and discuss possible adjustments without relying entirely on a headset or another coach to deliver the message.

Working from the sideline also allows Reich to speak directly with the offensive line and skill position players. A receiver may notice how a defensive back is playing a particular route. An offensive lineman could identify a pressure tendency that was not obvious before the snap. Those conversations can help determine what the Jets call on the next possession.

The View From the Booth

Calling plays from the booth offers its own advantages.

From above the field, Reich would have a cleaner view of defensive formations, coverage rotations and spacing. It can be easier to see how defenders react to motion, how the safeties disguise coverage and where opportunities are beginning to develop. The booth also provides a quieter working environment. Reich would be removed from some of the noise and emotion on the sideline, allowing him to study the defense and communicate with the rest of the coaching staff.

There is no universally correct location for an offensive play caller. Some of the NFL’s best offensive minds work from the sideline, while others prefer the view from upstairs. The right answer depends on the coach, the quarterback and how the staff plans to communicate during games.

Jets Fans Question the Report

Many Jets fans were skeptical that there was a real story behind the original speculation. JetNation forum member Scott Dierking wrote:

“Oh, he heard from, oh ‘he doesn’t remember who he heard it from.’ Sounds legit. The Jets are an easy target, and they make it so, but this is July fodder for filling air time.”

That is a fair reaction. Until Reich or Aaron Glenn addresses the subject, there is no reason to assume that the Jets have made a final decision or that there is any disagreement between the coaches. The more important question is whether Reich will have the freedom to run the offense the way he believes is best.

The Choice Should Belong to Frank Reich

Glenn hired Reich because of his experience. Reich has been an NFL quarterback, an offensive coordinator and the head coach of two franchises. He helped coordinate the Philadelphia Eagles offense during their Super Bowl championship season and has spent years designing offenses and calling plays.

Following a difficult first season for Glenn and the Jets, Reich was brought in to provide a veteran presence on that side of the ball. His job is not simply to suggest plays. He is expected to lead an offense that badly needs stability and improvement.

That is why the choice should belong to him.

If Reich believes he can call a better game from the booth, the Jets should send him upstairs. If he values standing next to Smith and communicating directly with the offense, he should remain on the sideline.

There will be enough pressure on Frank Reich once the season begins. He will be responsible for getting Smith comfortable, maximizing Breece Hall, keeping Garrett Wilson involved and building an offense around several young playmakers.

Where Reich stands is less important than whether the Jets allow him to do the job they hired him to do.

The decision should be based on football, communication and Reich’s comfort. Let the experienced play caller choose the location that gives the Jets offense its best chance to succeed.

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