Nine of the 12 FBS programs in the state of Texas entered spring with a quarterback battle in the forefront of the mind. Arguably, only Houston (Clayton Tune), UTSA (Frank Harris), UTEP (Gavin Hardison) are secure at the quarterback spot. Even SMU’s Tanner Mordecai, who threw for more yards than any other FBS player in the state during the 2021 season, is facing pressure from a backup with former four-star Preston Stone nipping at his heels.
Quarterback is the sexy position in modern football. The NFL Draft proves its importance as teams reach each season in the first round. Teams without quality quarterback play are doomed to mediocrity. Teams that find superior quarterback play are significantly more hopeful about the present and the future. That is true for college, as well. Maybe defense still wins championships, but the passing game gets you there.