By Dorrington Myers
Every year, a new wave of quarterbacks emerges, some seasoned veterans, others young phenoms. All of them must strap on their helmets and compete until the final whistle. The essence of the game is simple: outscore your opponent. This season, five starters in the SEC stand out as the ones to watch. Here’s a look at the players who are set to light up the scoreboard.
1. Carson Beck (Georgia)
2023 Stats – 72.4%, 3,941 yards, 24 touchdowns, 6 interceptions
Synopsis:
1. Accuracy: Beck is considered one of the most accurate passers in college football, rarely missing throws.
2. Precision: His delivery is surgical, making him highly effective when he’s on his game.
3. Versatility: Beck can make every throw on the field, both from the pocket and off-platform, putting him in rare company.
4. Dual-Threat Ability: Despite not getting enough credit, Beck’s ability to impact the game both through the air and on the ground makes him a valuable player.
5. Consistency: His consistent outstanding performances further elevate his status as a top quarterback.
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These points showcase Beck’s impressive skill set and his potential to excel at the next level. He’s the most complete QB returning this season
2. Jalen Milroe (Alabama)
2023 Stats – 65.8%, 2,834 yards, 23 touchdowns, 6 interceptions
Synopsis:
1. Leadership: Milroe is a battle-tested leader who understands his role and responsibilities.
2. Resilience: Despite early struggles last season, he managed to get back on track.
3. Arm Talent: He possesses exceptional arm talent, capable of stretching the field and punishing defensive mistakes.
4. Accuracy: Milroe is decently accurate, enabling him to make crucial completions.
5. Dual-Threat Ability: He is just as effective on the ground as he is through the air.
6. Work Ethic and Leadership: His dedication and leadership qualities are highly commendable.
7. Potential: With his understanding of progression and the demands of the position, Milroe has the potential to surprise many this season.
These points highlight Milroe’s strengths and the qualities that could make him a standout player.
3. Brady Cook (Missouri)
2023 Stats – 66.1%, 3,317 yards, 21 touchdowns, 6 interceptions
Synopsis:
1. Elite Ball Placement: Cook is praised for his precise throws, placing the ball exactly where it needs to be for his receivers to make the catch.
2. Underrated Speed: Despite perhaps not being known for his speed, Cook is faster than many might think, contributing to his effectiveness.
3. Bold Decisions: He’s not afraid to make difficult throws, showing confidence and a willingness to take risks.
4. Exceptional Back Shoulder Passes: His back shoulder throws are among the best, a crucial skill for keeping the ball away from defenders.
5. Arm Talent: While his arm strength might not be the most powerful, it’s sufficiently effective within the system he operates.
6. Red Zone Efficiency: Cook is particularly lethal in the red zone, frequently leading his team to score touchdowns.
7. Sliding Technique: The critique highlights a need for Cook to improve his sliding technique, as diving headfirst can be risky and potentially lead to injuries.
Overall, Cook’s skills make him a significant asset to his team, especially in critical scoring situations, but there’s room for improvement in his approach to avoiding contact.
4. Jaxson Dart (Ole Miss)
2023 Stats – 65.1%, 3,364 yards, 23 touchdowns, 5 interceptions
Synopsis:
1. Touch and Accuracy: Dart excels at delivering catchable passes with touch, which helps his receivers.
2. Touch Passes: He avoids unnecessarily gunning the ball, making it easier for his receivers.
3. 50/50 Passes: His ability to throw accurate 50/50 passes is impressive, ensuring his receivers have a chance to make plays.
4. Timing: His receivers can rely on him for timely throws.
5. Reckless Scrambling: Dart’s tendency to run with reckless abandon and not slide after scrambles could lead to injuries.
6. Footwork: While his footwork is adequate, improving it could enhance his overall performance.
5. Nico Iamaleava (Tennessee)
2023 Stats – 62.2%, 314 yards, 2 touchdowns, 0 interceptions
Synopsis:
1. High Ceiling: Nico has significant untapped potential, making him an exciting prospect with a high upside.
2. Patience and Trust: He shows patience in his progression and trusts his coaches’ play calls, striving to execute them effectively.
3. Solid Frame: With a sturdy build, he stands tall in the pocket and isn’t intimidated by oncoming defenders.
4. Anticipation and Timing: Nico excels at anticipating throws and delivering them on time.
5. Arm Talent: He has solid arm talent and can quickly get into a rhythm, becoming a dangerous passer.
6. Comparison: His playing style and potential remind you of Colin Kaepernick during his Nevada days.
7. Key Strengths: Nico’s confidence, accuracy, and ability to take over a game with his legs are the standout qualities that earned him a spot on my list.
These points underscore Iamaleava’s potential and the attributes that make him a compelling dark horse pick.
Conclusion:
As the season unfolds, these five SEC quarterbacks will be the ones to watch, each with the potential to lead their teams to victory. Their performances on the field will not only determine their success but also shape the narrative of the entire season. Keep an eye on these signal-callers—they’re poised to make headlines and redefine the competition in the SEC.
