On the Quarterback

I had a chance to listen to Coach Clawson's presser, and he gave some additional detail about his thinking on the QB situation.  If you recall, I had read that he had planned to bring Johnson in after 3 or 4 series, which I found implausible. I thought maybe he was trying to not say he had "benched Schilz."

As he gave more detail, I think that is what he had planned.  He said that they both are practicing really well, he planned to bring Johnson in early and then bring Schilz back later.  He thought about doing if after the pick, but he didn't want Johnson to feel like every time he makes a mistake he is going to get yanked.  Then, the team was moving well and he left Johnson in.

Which is the pitfall of the 2-QB system.  I'm not here to second guess because Coach Clawson has turned this program around and he clearly knows what he is doing.  I am sure he is aware of the downsides of using 2 QBS---lack of rhythm and consistency, neither guy feeling comfortable, and people being afraid of making mistakes.  

This is a big season for him, and I'm sure he feels like this gives us the best chance to win or he wouldn't be doing it.  And, if it doesn't work, he's accountable for the decision.

I don't know how often an arrangement like that has ever worked.  I can never think of any, but I'm sure there are some.  Johnson does present a change of pace from Schilz--which makes preparation harder--but I didn't see anything I thought Schilz did better than Johnson, based on that one game.

The final thought is that Coach keeps saying it is based on how the players practice.  Aren't there sometimes guys who are good in practice but not in games?

Anyway, it will be interesting to watch this play out.  After the 10-11 seasons, we should only be happy with where we are.  We have an excellent team, a big win under our belts and we're rolling along!