Like Tony Dungy, Nick Foles is a devout Christian who has never been shy with speaking publicly about the importance of religion in his life. And while it wasn’t surprising that Dungy mentioned Foles’ faith on numerous occasions during NBC’s coverage of the Super Bowl, many fans felt the discussion was inappropriate.
Dungy made reference to Foles’ religious beliefs on the air and with a tweet following the game. The former NFL coach also noted how important it was for his son, Justin, to see the Eagles quarterbacks praying together after their win over the Patriots.
Congratulations to the Eagles. Nick Foles told me last week that he felt the Lord had him in Philadelphia for a special moment and he played like it tonight. pic.twitter.com/BgYvucnK6Q
— Tony Dungy (@TonyDungy) February 5, 2018
After all the celebrations and confetti Justin caught up with the 3 Eagles QBs Nick Foles, Carson Wentz & Nate Sudfeld along with Zach Ertz who scored the winning TD. They were in a room by themselves—praying and thanking God. It was great for him to see that. pic.twitter.com/wDWgg2u01X
— Tony Dungy (@TonyDungy) February 5, 2018
The tweets and Dungy’s comments on air led to a lot of backlash, and he addressed some of it on Tuesday.
NBC pays me to express my opinion. And it was my opinion that Nick Foles would play well because his Christian faith would allow him to to play with confidence. And that he’s a good QB. I think I was right on both counts. https://t.co/4HOfXt78UZ
— Tony Dungy (@TonyDungy) February 6, 2018
Dungy was also asked what this says about players of faith whose teams lose.
“Why would you find it hard to believe that the Holy Spirit could speak to Nick Foles just as much as a coach could speak to him? If he credited a coach for saying “Stay calm and be confident” that’s good. But if he tells me Christ says that to him I shouldn’t report it???”, he responded.
Dungy angered fans earlier in the week with his thoughts about where the Patriots’ dynasty ranks among the NFL’s best, but New England did end up losing the game.
