To look separately. First, we know the decision was deferred. For candidate, he thought the deferment was a way to play safe. So you are right referring to the candidate’s view. For coach, he’s questioning whether the deferment of the decision could play safe. He didn’t said it’s safe or not, he just questioned it . However, you can tell he somewhat didn’t think it’s safe from his tone.

To play safe means to take precautions and select the low risk options. Deferring a decision may or may not be playing safe depending on the circumstances.