Mistakes by Key Players: What Small Businesses Selling to the Government Can Learn from Emari Demercado’s Goal Line Blunder

Mistakes by Key Players: What Small Businesses Selling to the Government Can Learn from Emari Demercado’s Goal Line Blunder

In Week 5 of the NFL season, Arizona Cardinals running back Emari Demercado made a costly error by fumbling the football just before crossing the goal line, negating a potential touchdown and ultimately contributing to a narrow 22-21 loss. Head coach Jonathan Gannon’s immediate and intense reaction underscored the high stakes of small mistakes in critical moments.

While this incident occurred on the football field, it offers valuable lessons for small businesses seeking to succeed in federal contracting—a domain where precision, compliance, and timing are equally crucial.

1. Precision Matters: Understand Every Detail Before Taking Action

Demercado’s slip-up involved releasing the ball moments too early—a minor yet pivotal detail that changed the outcome drastically. Similarly, small businesses must ensure they fully understand the requirements of government solicitations. Whether applying for a GSA Schedule contract or responding to an RFP on SAM.gov, meticulous review of terms, deadlines, compliance standards, and submission details is essential. Missing or misunderstanding one requirement can mean losing a contract opportunity.

2. Preparation and Execution Go Hand in Hand

The Cardinals had positioned themselves to nearly seal the game, but a single error cost them the win. Likewise, small businesses must prepare comprehensively and execute flawlessly. This includes maintaining up-to-date registrations (e.g., active SAM.gov status), meeting security and quality certifications, and ensuring all documentation is accurate. Preparation also involves training staff on compliance and procurement best practices to avoid "errors" during auditing or contract performance.

3. Learn From Setbacks—Don’t Let Them Define You

Coach Gannon’s frustration was clear, but the Cardinals had also improved steadily over prior seasons despite challenges. Small businesses will inevitably face setbacks—missed bids, compliance hiccups, or delays in payments. The key is to analyze what went wrong, adjust strategies, and persist. Use resources like PTACs (Procurement Technical Assistance Centers) or federal small business programs to refine your approach continuously.

4. Timely Response Is Critical—Don’t Let Opportunities Slip Away

Just as the Cardinals missed an opportunity to eliminate their opponents, small businesses must respond promptly during government procurement cycles. Contracts often have strict windows for questions, submissions, and revisions. Automation or calendar reminders related to SAM.gov opportunities or GSA Schedule updates can help ensure timely action.

5. Stakeholder Communication Reflects on Your Credibility

Coach Gannon’s sideline tirade, while emotional, signals internal accountability. For contractors, clear and professional communication with contracting officers and agency representatives builds trust and reputation. Poor communication or evasiveness can jeopardize future opportunities.

In Conclusion

Emari Demercado’s goal line blunder is an apt metaphor for the attention to detail, preparation, and resilience needed in federal contracting. Small missteps at critical moments can cost valuable contracts or damage relationships. However, by focusing on thorough compliance, well-practiced execution, timely responsiveness, and continuous improvement, small businesses can convert challenges into growth within the competitive government marketplace.

Understanding the parallels between a high-stakes football game and government contracting encourages small business owners to approach federal opportunities with the same focus and discipline that professional athletes bring to the field.

GovScout helps small businesses break into federal contracting. We simplify SAM.gov, surface winnable contracts, and give you the insights to grow in the public sector. Learn more at govscout.io.