By Ty Scheiner
Taylen Green, QB, Arkansas
I know it was against Arkansas Pine Bluff, but Taylen Green’s first game as a Razorback in a Bobby Petrino offense looked very promising. The Boise State transfer threw for 229 yards and added another 88 on the ground, accounting for four touchdowns (two through the air and two on the ground) — all in the first half.
Green played a key role in guiding Boise State to the Mountain West Conference championship last season. He threw 25 touchdowns and 15 interceptions, while also rushing for 19 touchdowns and accumulating 1,024 yards. The combination of Green and Petrino might be a perfect fit for Arkansas, given Green’s dual-threat ability.
They face a tougher opponent this week when they travel to Oklahoma State to play the Pokes. However, it could be another opportunity for Green to prove that last week wasn’t a fluke. The Pokes are coming off a win against FCS opponent South Dakota State where they gave up 388 yards of total offense. While it’s a small sample size, the 264 passing yards they allowed ranks 109th nationally. Green will need to improve, especially in terms of accuracy, but overall, this should be a fun matchup. We’ll learn more about Green, Petrino, and the Razorbacks as they face the Pokes.
Aidan Chiles, QB, Michigan State
Another transfer quarterback to keep an eye on this weekend is Aidan Chiles. The Spartans squeaked out a win against FAU despite a poor performance from Chiles in his first game in East Lansing. He completed less than half of his passes (10/24) for 114 yards, threw two interceptions, and scored one rushing touchdown. Ranked by 247 Sports as the No. 2 quarterback and eighth-best player overall in the transfer portal, Chiles has a lot to prove, especially this weekend in College Park against a solid Terrapins defense.
Maryland enters the matchup following a 50-7 win over UConn. Under defensive coordinator Brian Williams, Maryland has developed a strong defense, which will pose a challenge for Chiles. However, it’s also an opportunity for him to bounce back after Week 1’s struggles. Specifically, I’ll be watching for Chiles to take better care of the football. If turnovers continue, it could be a long day for the Spartans. Improved decision-making and ball security will be key for Chiles this weekend.
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Nick Nash, WR, San Jose State
If not for Tetairoa McMillan’s standout performance, we’d likely be talking more about Nick Nash’s impressive showing last week against a solid FCS opponent in Sacramento State. The Spartans put up 42 points, and Nash—who was a former high school quarterback—was responsible for three touchdowns: two receiving and one passing.
Air Force’s first game against Merrimack wasn’t particularly impressive, but they did only allow 103 passing yards. Last season, they had a formidable defense, and the Spartans managed to throw for 239 yards against them, even while playing from behind in obvious passing situations. This year, however, Air Force is breaking in several new faces on defense. While coach Troy Calhoun will likely keep them competitive, they may not have the same level of talent as last season.
If San Jose State can establish the run, it could create more opportunities for Nash to get open and see more targets. And if Air Force takes an early lead, the Spartans might once again find themselves in passing situations. Either way, I expect Nash to build on his Week 1 performance and have another big day at Falcon Stadium.
