A CLOSER LOOK AT THE QBs

GATOR GRIDIRON
ROGER FRANKLIN WILLIAMS

One result of the 2011 Spring game was to further highlight the QB position as the Gators move toward new HC Will Mushchamp's first season. As previously mentioned, the Orange and Blue game provided either reason for further doubt or a faint silver cloud of optimism for 2011.

Current starting QB John Brantley's 4-14 passing performance was disappointing, but should also be viewed in the context that defense is usually ahead of offense at this early stage, especially during the process of instituting a brand new offense with brand new coaches.

Redshirt Freshman Tyler Murphy's showing was an unexpected positve for some Gators, including Gator Gridiron (no big deal or even reason for further pessimism and frustration for others). The 6'2" Murphy, who by many accounts looked comfortable navigating the new offense, is a physically impressive young QB who also has impressive speed. He was recruited out Connecticut by former HC Urban Meyer as much for his competitive spirit and intensity as for his obvious athleticism.

Pure Freshman Jeff Driskel needs no introduction, so to speak. The most acclaimed and recruited QB in the nation, Driskel has Tebow-esque physical attributes and is also renown for both extraordinary passing and running feats at the high school level. Driskel left high school early to participate in Spring football, got significant action in the Orange and Blue game and is expected to compete for the starting QB job in the fall.

Surprise signee Jacoby Brissett adds further interest and excitement to the QB battle. An impressive dual-threat QB, Brissett was recruited by new OC Charlie Weis. Brissett is emphatic that he comes to Gainesville as a QB only and declared his expectation to compete for the No 1 QB job. The confident youngster brings a refreshing air of confidence and spirit to the new era of Gator football.

Dark horse candidate Christian Provancha, a tall, strong walk-on out of the "off-broadway" Cocoa Beach Minutemen program, capped a productive spring by providing the biggest highlight of the Spring game---a dramatic late 4th quarter TD pass to WR Robert Clark which won the game for the Blue.

Judging these talented young men on their merits, not their press clippings, Gator Gridiron expects this impressive group of QBs, under the expert instruction of one of the top offensive stratigists/tacticians/teachers in the game, to infuse Gator Football with a spirited battle for the No 1 QB position and possibly carry the Gators to an unexpectedly successful season for new Head Coach Will Muschamp.