Couple things.....
Lets not get too carried away with criticism of Sam as he is our current QB, the season is still on, we have CCG aspirations that are valid, and he has been a tremendous representative, as well as an honorable and timely leader for our school and football program.
Having said this.... I'll add a few thoughts and try to keep them gracious and even handed...
Sam is a good college QB who has given our O a level of toughness and leadership at that position not seen since Colt. He plays better late in games and when the threat of losing is highest.
He may be injured, but to be honest, there hasn't been too many stretches since his arrival that he hasn't struggled with throws beyond short to intermediate. Yes, he hasn't always had the best oline to protect him, but the same is true for 85% of the NCAA. He makes plays out of nothing frequently enough to make up for some deficiencies, but deficiencies remain in his pocket presence and ability to accurately make throws... sometimes even shorter ones...when there is traffic around...which again is 85% of the time at this level. He has a knack for finding a quick hitter for low to medium yards when he steps around in pocket as it breaks down but far too often drifts backwards while reading instead of stepping right, left or up and throws off back foot or with poor foundation.
Another big bugaboo is he simply is a very slow starter in most games and this has never been more evident than this year.
And then there is the fact that he has never been accurate on deep throws...something this offense sorely needs in its arsenal.
I personally am so thankful Sam has been our QB the last 3 1/2 years(that right?) and he has stabilized a room we were lacking in for years. He has brought hope, intangibles, chance of winning, and pride back....and again toughness and leadership on and off the field.
Having said this, in my humble opinion, it would be best for us to move on. I believe Thompson is better than most think.. and he already portalled once and was talked out of it. Then you have Card waiting in the wings and who knows maybe even RJ deserves a shot.
All in all...Sam has done what he needed to do for this time. It is now evident we need to take a next step and see if this can help our offense achieve a new and higher level of consistency, effectiveness, and assertion.
Last edited: Nov 11, 2020