That crossed my mind too - if it was just a conversation to get Phil fired up, kind of like the response to "I'm thinking of sitting you down, Jimmy" in Miracle.
By no means do I think Phil is playing poorly (Friday can hardly be blamed on him). I don't think he should be sat based on performance. My only thought is that IF, mentally, he really does need a quick break (which Hak would know), I'd rather see it this weekend, so he can come back refreshed and start the hot streak. While we'd prob. all be more comfortable with Walski playing against UAA or BSU, those games are late enough in the season where you don't want to be switching things up, because the Sioux should already be on a hot streak.
Regardless of who plays, I trust Hak.