Official Garcia in '08 Thread (Merged Threads about Garcia)

[superstar90]

Thank you for reminding us all of this. Personally I felt that Spurrier yanked Smelley prematurely. I wish he'd finished off the year. Just my opinion... I'm not trying to kick start a Blake vs. Smelley debate. I simply felt that we would gain more in the long run by letting Smelley play through the rest of the season. I know hindsight is 20/20, but in my defense I was saying this same thing on this board the whole time we were in that 5 game losing skid.

I think since we were 6-1 and #6 we had to only worry about this year. We were not looking to 08. Once the skid started, there wasn't much that could be done then. If SOS would have known we were going to fall off the map, I'm sure he would have let Chris ride it out. Eventhough Chris hasn't played a whole lot, he will still have a lot of experience for a rs so. Plus I'm not sure we should write off Beecher just yet. He's the long shot, but he's strong, can move and run, and has some experience. Plus he will be in his 4th year in the system. You never know when it will "click" for someone.

[jstrom]

Everybody (many) was so ready to throw Blake out with the bathwater (grew up thinking USC and loyalty were synonymous). Seems a lot of the Blake haters are starting to hate on the Smelley haters now. How long before the cylce is refreshed....

[Ga_Gamecock]

Everybody (many) was so ready to throw Blake out with the bathwater (grew up thinking USC and loyalty were synonymous). Seems a lot of the Blake haters are starting to hate on the Smelley haters now. How long before the cylce is refreshed....

I posted this a while back in the A Hillary thread ... its funny, but so true: the backup QB is always the most popular guy on the team. i still can hear some of our fans bashing petty and how jenkins was going to be the next Holtz/ND/Tony Rice combo and lead us to Atlanta. we all know how that turned out ... the game @ UVa was a serious low point


i find it hilarious how we talk up QB recruits - year after year....

One thing will always remain constant in college football: the backup QB is always the best player on the team...


"Petty sucks - we will dominate with Jenkins"

"Jenkins is terrible - i hear Pinkins is going to shine!"

"Pinkins can chuck it 80 yards but cant complete a 10 yard pass - i hear Wrathe has a laser!"

"jucos like Wrathe never pan out, but blake is an elite 11 QB"

"blake cant read a zone and/or isnt mobile - where is syvelle"

"I cant wait for Smelley to take over - he was a 4*!"

"SG will be the next tanneyhill!"

"McCollum has a stronger arm than Smelley"

"SG isnt as moblie as A Hillary - I hope we run the spread option"

LOL


I think with these current players and this staff we are going to shatter the USC record book. We have more aths on the roster than i can remember


go cocks

[JoeMorrison]

Well, nobody can even hold a candle to Dickie DeMasie.

[jstrom]

Well, nobody can even hold a candle to Dickie DeMasie.

Does Dickie need someone to hold a candle to him? I'm on vacation til next Saturday, so can try if he really needs me to. I tried to hold a candle to myself once too...that didn't work out too well for me or the candle.

[FightingCock]

Just wondering what you guys think of this. I think Smelley will easily be able to handle our first two games against NC State and Vandy. Georgia in my opinion will most likely be our toughest game next season because they have national title implications on the line, and a lot of talent. Not to mention they will be looking for revenge from the past season. I know Garcia will be wanting to jump in there as soon as he can and start carving up defenses. I think that SOS should wait until the Georgia game to debut Garcia, and the new offense he's been working on. Especially since most DC's know SOS likes to throw the ball around. Having that dual threat will be a great asset to his system.

[ShutTheSuccop]

Just wondering what you guys think of this. I think Smelley will easily be able to handle our first two games against NC State and Vandy. Georgia in my opinion will most likely be our toughest game next season because they have national title implications on the line, and a lot of talent. Not to mention they will be looking for revenge from the past season. I know Garcia will be wanting to jump in there as soon as he can and start carving up defenses. I think that SOS should wait until the Georgia game to debut Garcia, and the new offense he's been working on. Especially since most DC's know SOS likes to throw the ball around. Having that dual threat will be a great asset to his system.

I don't this it would be wise to make Garcia's first college exposure against the potential national champions. I would rather him be broken in against either NCSU or Vandy and see if he is all he is hyped to be before exposing him to UGA...

[YouCanNeverTell]

Just wondering what you guys think of this. I think Smelley will easily be able to handle our first two games against NC State and Vandy. Georgia in my opinion will most likely be our toughest game next season because they have national title implications on the line, and a lot of talent. Not to mention they will be looking for revenge from the past season. I know Garcia will be wanting to jump in there as soon as he can and start carving up defenses. I think that SOS should wait until the Georgia game to debut Garcia, and the new offense he's been working on. Especially since most DC's know SOS likes to throw the ball around. Having that dual threat will be a great asset to his system.
I think that it all comes down to how the O-Line does. If Smelley has time and can make things happen in the first two games then we might not see alot of Garcia. If the oline can't perform then there is a good chance that we won't get Smelley take a single snap under center this fall. I feel like once Garcia gets on the field he won't come off. But I think as of right now Smelley has the job. As long as he performs at a certain level then Garcia will only be used as a change of pace guy sort of like Tebow in his freshman year.

[Coondog]

I think we see him starting game 1 and not looking back. I like Smelly but I think Garcia is the real deal.

[spurfan93]

It all depends on Smelley. he'll most likely start the first game. If hes doin well then spurrier will keep him in. If he doesnt then garcia will get his chance. we've all seen that spurrier goes with the hot hand.

[Ga_Gamecock]

I think Smelley will easily be able to handle our first two games against NC State and Vandy. .

IMO theres not going to be one easy thing about either of those games.

both are very dangerous teams and we have a lot of ? marks

JMO but we will be in 3 dogfights the 1st three games. In the 3rd we may face the best team in the country

[prengr2001]

I certainly don't think any of the first 3 games should be used by us to "disguise" our true offensive plans for the year. We better come with our "A" game every game or we will be 0-3; although bringing the A+ game against UGA will be crucial since they may be the best in the nation next year.
With QBs, I think SOS will install his new offense (including the QB moving around -- ie. designed QB draws, rollouts, etc.) regardless of which QB is under center (or in the shotgun). Whichever QB can best implement what he wants to see will be on the field from Day 1. I don't think you will see him start a guy, see how the line protects and decide whether he wants to see a QB with some escapability (I hope those days are behind us). I am excited to see how both QBs perform under the new scheme -- we may all be surprise how good both can be.

[pippin_usc]

i am going to try to go to the spring and that will decide it for me

[kick_ball]

I think we see him starting game 1 and not looking back. I like Smelly but I think Garcia is the real deal.


right and you know this from what??? ohh i forgot all those big time sec games he has played in and all those snaps he has taken in front of 800000 people.... i might be alone in this but i am not buying in to this "garcia" is going to be our savior crap...especially since he hasnt played a down against a real sec defense....he might be as good as people say but i wont believe it untill i see it....the sad fact about it is smelly gets the short end of things...the second he screws up just once EVERYone is going to be calling for gracia...but who do you call for when he screws up?

:wink:

[gotrice?]

I sincerely hope that Garcia starts the first game and every single game this season. I was not a big fan of Smelley's performance last season. I don't think he has a big enough arm to flourish in the SEC. Also his decision making ability leaves something to be desired. I think Garcia has the potential to be a star while Smelley has the potential to be an average QB at best.

[kda]

Finishing 0-5 I hope Spurrier uses any trick necessary to win. I am very excited to see if Garcia can live up to the hype, but at the same time I hate to know that a lot of us are resting our hopes on a kid who has never taken a collegiate snap. I pray he is the real deal, and if he is as good as advertised, Spurrier should put him in whenever necessary.

[YouCanNeverTell]

right and you know this from what??? ohh i forgot all those big time sec games he has played in and all those snaps he has taken in front of 800000 people.... i might be alone in this but i am not buying in to this "garcia" is going to be our savior crap...especially since he hasnt played a down against a real sec defense....he might be as good as people say but i wont believe it untill i see it....the sad fact about it is smelly gets the short end of things...the second he screws up just once EVERYone is going to be calling for gracia...but who do you call for when he screws up?

:wink:
Hillary...

[cocknblue]

Hillary...

Sir Edmund? Sorry, he just died.

[kick_ball]

I sincerely hope that Garcia starts the first game and every single game this season. I was not a big fan of Smelley's performance last season. I don't think he has a big enough arm to flourish in the SEC. Also his decision making ability leaves something to be desired. I think Garcia has the potential to be a star while Smelley has the potential to be an average QB at best.


Smelly was a REDSHIRT freshman...of course he his decision making is going to be a little off and his arm strength going to be low...what do you want from him....i dont see how people can be so hard on him he only played in 4 games...and no one was complaining about him after the UK win

:wink:

[donbgamecock]

The optimal phrase is "I think". So I think that to make judgements at this time are completely premature. Since we are discussing personal feelings, I feel that we should use a proven asset (Smelly) and test the potential of others whenever possible....including Beecher and McQueeny. Depending on the results of performance, that is when changes or other adjustments need to be made. Any other discussion about making one person or the other person is just pulling straws to see what comes up.

[YouCanNeverTell]

Smelly was a REDSHIRT freshman...of course he his decision making is going to be a little off and his arm strength going to be low...what do you want from him....i dont see how people can be so hard on him he only played in 4 games...and no one was complaining about him after the UK win

:wink:
Usually people don't complain after the wins...
I didn't think his decision making was all that bad last year. Especially compared to some of Blake's. However, his arm strength was a big issue for me from day one. And I don't feel like you can blame it on him being a RS freshman. This season he will be a RS Sophomore and I don't expect his arm strength to have improved a whole lot...

[gotrice?]

Smelly was a REDSHIRT freshman...of course he his decision making is going to be a little off and his arm strength going to be low...what do you want from him....i dont see how people can be so hard on him he only played in 4 games...and no one was complaining about him after the UK win

:wink:

Actually I did complain after that win. I was thanking god we had Norwood because he and the defense was the reason we won that game. And as for his decision making being better than Blake's I think it was just about equal if not a little worse. He had quite a few INTs dropped. If he had pinpoint accuracy I would have a different view of him. But he doesn't he has a weak arm and his accuracy is not to where it needs to be with his lack of arm strength. Smelley just doesn't strike me as someone who will do well as an SEC QB. Too many physical limitations.

[ShutTheSuccop]

Actually I did complain after that win. I was thanking god we had Norwood because he and the defense was the reason we won that game. And as for his decision making being better than Blake's I think it was just about equal if not a little worse. He had quite a few INTs dropped. If he had pinpoint accuracy I would have a different view of him but he doesn't he has a weak arm and his accuracy is not to where it needs to be with his lack of arm strength. Smelley just doesn't strike me as someone who will do well as an SEC QB. Too many physical limitations.

Just remember, had Saunders not fumbled that ball, Norwood's night would not have been nearly as impressive...

[kick_ball]

Actually I did complain after that win. I was thanking god we had Norwood because he and the defense was the reason we won that game. And as for his decision making being better than Blake's I think it was just about equal if not a little worse. He had quite a few INTs dropped. If he had pinpoint accuracy I would have a different view of him. But he doesn't he has a weak arm and his accuracy is not to where it needs to be with his lack of arm strength. Smelley just doesn't strike me as someone who will do well as an SEC QB. Too many physical limitations.



Then why when smelly got here was everyone so high on him...now after him only playing 4 games they are throwing in the back seat to a guy who hasnt touched the ball in a game....where does it end...gracia throws a bad pass put in beecher...he gets sacked...put in hillary...he doesnt see an open reciver and throws a pick put in the guy in sec 4 row 27 seat 24 i mean come on....does making a mistake warrents a new qb...if thats the case no one is ever going to be satisfied....

[gotrice?]

Then why when smelly got here was everyone so high on him...now after him only playing 4 games they are throwing in the back seat to a guy who hasnt touched the ball in a game....where does it end...gracia throws a bad pass put in beecher...he gets sacked...put in hillary...he doesnt see an open reciver and throws a pick put in the guy in sec 4 row 27 seat 24 i mean come on....does making a mistake warrents a new qb...if thats the case no one is ever going to be satisfied....

I was never that high on Smelley. He came in with impressive stats but not a big arm. I'm someone who believes that arm strength is absolutely crucial in SEC play because of the team speed of the defenses you go against week in and week out during conference play. Smelley didn't have that. I wasn't sure how accurate he was so I with held my judgement until I saw him in a game and when I did I came away not impressed at all. He replaced Blake after being outplayed by Blake in that LSU game. I counted something like 4 easy dropped INTs in it. And from that point on just never saw much to change my mind.

[gotrice?]

Just remember, had Saunders not fumbled that ball, Norwood's night would not have been nearly as impressive...

Oh I know that. But the fact is that he did and the UK offense outscored our offense.

[FightingCock]

but who do you call for when he screws up?



Mcqueeny or McCollum??????????? Hell maybe the ol' ball coach will say screw it and slap on a uniform himself.....that would definately be a sight, lol.

[ShutTheSuccop]

Oh I know that. But the fact is that he did and the UK offense outscored our offense.

I was just making the point that this could not be pinned on Smelley and secondly, I could be wrong, but did our offense not outscore UK's? I can't remember

[cocky2007]

I was just making the point that this could not be pinned on Smelley and secondly, I could be wrong, but did our offense not outscore UK's? I can't remember

The offense scored 24 points. We got 38, and Norwood got 2 defensive TDs. The final was 38-23.

[cocky2007]

I didn't really think that Smelley had arm strength problems. The only thing I saw that people might think this was the 2 tipped balls in the end zone to McKinley against UK. His arm strength didn't appear to be any worse than Mitchell's to me.

[gotrice?]

The offense scored 24 points. We got 38, and Norwood got 2 defensive TDs. The final was 38-23.

I thought they had another FG my bad. Then the offense barely outscored them. Either way you look at it Smelley was not the main reason we won that game. He had an absolutely pathetic 3rd quarter that continued to give UK a chance again and again to take over the game. Our defense was responsible for that win much more so than Smelley.

[chfforrest]

I really hoped that they would have let Smelley finish the season regardeless of the outcome. Experience in a big time conference is key. You also have to have continuity and timing with the receivers. That is why I'm not a huge fan of putting different qb's in. I mean if the guy is really screwing up and u put the back up in and he is hot, then by god let him play. I just think that Blake needed a solid O-line to really shine and we didn't have it, so I'm not sure he was our best bet to win. Not saying Smelley would have done better, I just would have liked him to get the experience for this year. I believe that it's Smelley's to lose right now. It all depends on the spring game. If Garcia puts on a show look for him to start the season!!! Either way, I can't wait, and I hope we could win with any of them under center!!!

Gooooo Cocks!!

[big cock fan]

im sorry but you guys are hilarious, everyone knows that the back up is always the favorite. The redshirt FRESHMEN made some mistakes but thats what freshmen do. You dont need a huge arm to win ball games, with SS's offense its all about putting the ball in the right spot at the right time, not how long you can hold on to it and then gun it in there. Its going to be a battle, and we will see how is the better competitor, guys on the team last year said that Chris has great leadership and is really confident in the huddle. Just give the kid a chance before you call for the backup.

[CoverTwo]

Smelley doesnt have an arm strength problem..Now he doesnt have the gun that Garcia does but still..He just puts too much touch on his passes instead of rearing back and letting it go..He also had a throwing shoulder problem at the beginning of the season that I'm sure stuck with him most of the season...My only problem I have with him is that his confidence was shot down during the Tennessee game and even before that during the Vandy game.

[Ga_Gamecock]

With QBs, I think SOS will install his new offense (including the QB moving around -- ie. designed QB draws, rollouts, etc.) regardless of which QB is under center (or in the shotgun).


JMO, but i think we will see the standard SOS O ... he knows it works, and he has set numerous O records with it, however what i do think he wants to see is a QB with the X factor like syvelle had.

And syvelle didnt really do that much in the grand scheme of things with his feet - but he did the little things and he did it often. Those 3, 5, 7 yard scampers really opened the door for our O in a lot of situations and if we can do more of that with a guy like Garcia, who is a dropback passer, then our O should do very very well in 08.

We still have a ton of ? marks, but im hopeful we will take it to the nxt level

[gotrice?]

im sorry but you guys are hilarious, everyone knows that the back up is always the favorite. The redshirt FRESHMEN made some mistakes but thats what freshmen do. You dont need a huge arm to win ball games, with SS's offense its all about putting the ball in the right spot at the right time, not how long you can hold on to it and then gun it in there. Its going to be a battle, and we will see how is the better competitor, guys on the team last year said that Chris has great leadership and is really confident in the huddle. Just give the kid a chance before you call for the backup.

If that were the case I would have been a big supporter of Smelley last year instead of Blake. I never wanted to see Smelley on the field last year once Blake got back from his 1 game suspension. Garcia is my favorite because the upside on him is far greater than the upside of Smelley. Plus like I said it comes down to the arm and Garcia has a cannon which will let him make all the throws and from what I've seen from Smelley he can't. I would love to see Smelley prove me wrong but I don't have much faith that he will.

[Click]

Where do you guys get that Garcia's got a "cannon of an arm" when he hasn't played a down of college football yet? I have high hopes for this kid too, but lets see what he can do on the field during an actual game first.

[gamecox3]

I think it will be a good competition this spring, but, correct me if I am wrong, didn't Smelley go to coach Spurrier and syar he didn't have the confidence to play. Garcia seems like one of those guys who is cocky and won't anything get in his head. Hes got some ruggedness that we havent really had since Tanneyhill(sp).

[CoverTwo]

Yes. Chris Smelley asked to be taken out of the UT game because he said the defense was moving too fast for him and he didnt feel like he could get it done..So Steve inserted Blake and demoted Smelley to 3rd string..That is per Spurrier from his TV show the sunday after the game.

[gearhead302]

I think it will be a good competition this spring, but, correct me if I am wrong, didn't Smelley go to coach Spurrier and syar he didn't have the confidence to play. Garcia seems like one of those guys who is cocky and won't anything get in his head. Hes got some ruggedness that we havent really had since Tanneyhill(sp).

he strikes me as a tanyhill type but better, I think he gets the call from the first snap as long as he shows up in the spring game! go garcia, I'm rooting for him!!!!

[Goofyboy]

There is a lot I like about Smelley. He seems to have a non-panicky nature, and will dump or eat the ball when it's the smart thing to do. He throws the short stuff and swings pretty well. He usually avoids pressure while still looking downfield. While not a runner, his size lets him run without being timid. He doesn't, however, seem to have an attacking attitude - yet. He didn't steam-up some throws to open receivers (McKinley) that allowed DB's to recover. That can be corrected. I think he can be very good. I think Garcia can be special. Only testing under fire will tell, but Garcia showed - in high school - an attacking attitude, game presence, field vision, and arm that could develop into exceptional performance. His stock as a recruit climbed at year's end via all-star and elite camp exposure among top high school players. I think he can give defenses much more to think about than our other quarterbacks and can open-up additional options. Spring won't tell; the fall will.

[Ga_Gamecock]

I really hoped that they would have let Smelley finish the season regardeless of the outcome. Experience in a big time conference is key.

Experince can be a double edged sword

if Chris is struggling and SOS leaves him in he could implode and b/c another Marinovinch ... besides, chris said he wasnt ready. Thats a huge sign that .... hes not ready LOL

And SOS has coached a QB or two b/f ... he even won one of those postseason awards as well (heisman? LOL)

[gotrice?]

Where do you guys get that Garcia's got a "cannon of an arm" when he hasn't played a down of college football yet? I have high hopes for this kid too, but lets see what he can do on the field during an actual game first.

Watch his high school film. Thats how you can tell he has a cannon for an arm.

[USCbaseballguy]

I agree with got rice.. on everything he has said here. First off i never bought into smelly second off no one is saying smelly wont do well all we are saying is that from what we have seen of both respectively Garcia > Smelly. Smelly not alot of arm strength not very good feet. Was Smelly better than Blake when he played this year i think so will he better than garcia next year i dont think so. Garcia has a great arm (watch his film) and excellent feet. Which is why i think he should start he is a better Quarterback. Also you all who are so upset with us trusting Garcia a RS fresh next year but obviously HBC had no problem trusting Smelly this year so between you and HBC i trust him thanks.

[Ga_Gamecock]

Where do you guys get that Garcia's got a "cannon of an arm" when he hasn't played a down of college football yet? I have high hopes for this kid too, but lets see what he can do on the field during an actual game first.

Im with you that I want to see a noobie preform on the field before he gets hailed as the next Elway, but I have read recruiting blurbs where the staff said Garcia ahd the strongest arm ... i think it was something to the extent they were trying to teach him touch on a lot of the short stuff

[ConwayGamecock]

I was never that high on Smelley. He came in with impressive stats but not a big arm. I'm someone who believes that arm strength is absolutely crucial in SEC play because of the team speed of the defenses you go against week in and week out during conference play. Smelley didn't have that. I wasn't sure how accurate he was so I with held my judgement until I saw him in a game and when I did I came away not impressed at all. He replaced Blake after being outplayed by Blake in that LSU game. I counted something like 4 easy dropped INTs in it. And from that point on just never saw much to change my mind.
????

Blake Mitchell: 7-16 (.437) for 4.4 ypa, 0 TD 1 INT
Chris Smelley: 12-26 (.461) for 6.7 ypa, 1 TD 1 INT

????

Smelley started 6 games for USC, going 4-2, and appreared in 7 games overall. He played before Dion Lecorn stepped up and gave us a dependable #2 WR, and back when our Oline was still struggling to pass block. Smelley had the higher QB efficiency rating between the 2 starters. He won consecutive SEC FOW honors after his starts against MSU and UK.

Against UK in the 3rd quarter, the entire offense broke down: to place the blame solely on Smelley bespeaks of someone who didn't watch the game. Smelley was 0-3, and was sacked twice for a loss of 16 yards. I was in attendance at the game, and IMO he never had a chance to find receivers before those two sacks...they were on him that fast. Cory Boyd rushed 4 times for 1 yard. The Gamecocks were only on the field for 3 possessions, one of them thanks to a Little fumble of a punt that we recovered. We were on the field for a total of 4:47. The other 3 quarters, Smelley led our offense to 357 total net offensive yards, compared to UK's 233 total net yards.

If Smelley truly does have a confidense issue, then we may see Garcia. But Chris did not have a bad performance in '07 considering he was a RS freshman. Garcia may prove to be an outstanding QB in his own right, and he may win the starting job next season, but until he actually proves something, then IMO the best QB for us is Smelley.....

[gotrice?]

If you want to talk about the LSU game watch it instead of looking at the stats. Smelley had pass after pass dropped by defenders and Blake's INT happened because Jason Barnes tips it back into the air into the hands of the LSU defender on a pretty well placed ball. Watch the game don't look at the stat line because the stats say Smelley had a decent game while he actually played very poorly.

[ucan'tlickourcocks]

the LSU game is too painful to watch again! LOL

[ConwayGamecock]

If you want to talk about the LSU game watch it instead of looking at the stats. Smelley had pass after pass dropped by defenders and Blake's INT happened because Jason Barnes tips it back into the air into the hands of the LSU defender on a pretty well placed ball. Watch the game don't look at the stat line because the stats say Smelley had a decent game while he actually played very poorly.
I dunno, it just blows my mind that we're talking so critically about a redshirt freshman who got a couple of snaps in '06, and played platoon against UL-L, before coming into the 2nd half against the 2nd-ranked team in the nation that was smelling blood. I would understand these comments if they were for an experienced QB like Mitchell, but they have no place being lobbied against Smelley. Overall he played very well considering the circumstances, IMO.....

[gotrice?]

I dunno, it just blows my mind that we're talking about a redshirt freshman who got a couple of snaps in '06, and played platoon against UL-L, before coming into the 2nd half against the 2nd-ranked team in the nation. I would understand these comments if they were for an experienced QB like Mitchell, but they have no place being lobbied against Smelley. Overall he played very well considering the circumstances, IMO.....

Thats the thing I don't care about under the circumstances. Blake was healthy and the better option. The fact that Blake was on the roster means that in my opinion he had to play to the level of an experienced QB to be in the game. In that respect from what I saw of him he failed. I think we win every game that he won with Blake at QB and its his performance that cost us the Tenn game where he also lost confidence. Give me the seemingly more cocky QB in Garcia who is less likely in my opinion to lose confidence and has more physical gifts. Its nothing personal against Smelley its just he replaced a verteren QB so thats how I will rated his performance as a verteren QB. Had he come in this year starting for the first time I wouldn't have expected as much which is unfair but everything depends on the circumstances and given those circumstances I think he didn't do all that well last year.

[horseshoefootball]

I would bet money on the fact that you will see Garcia in the game against NCSU. Maybe not for long, but he'll get his first snaps there.

[Gray is God]

I think we see him starting game 1 and not looking back. I like Smelly but I think Garcia is the real deal.

AMEN! Smelley is nothing but a solid back-up. Hopefully Garcia is the real deal.

[GoonSquad]

^ WTF?

Even I think Garcia will be the starter, but to say Smelley is nothing but a backup is absurd.

[gotrice?]

^ WTF?

Even I think Garcia will be the starter, but to say Smelley is nothing but a backup is absurd.

I wish I could disagree with him but unless Smelley starts either throwing stronger or gets his arm stronger in the SEC thats all he is. Thats why I don't want to see him start another game in his USC career unless he can improve his arm strength dramatically.

[Ga_Gamecock]

JMO, but smelley looked like he was throwing timid at times (out routes in the EZ vs UK come to mind) ... im not sold that his arm is weak, but that he was trying to 'place' the ball rather than sit back and fire it out there ... JMO, i could be totoally wrong, but if you play timid and w/o confidence, you are going to shortchange some throws and make bad decisions

[gotrice?]

JMO, but smelley looked like he was throwing timid at times (out routes in the EZ vs UK come to mind) ... im not sold that his arm is weak, but that he was trying to 'place' the ball rather than sit back and fire it out there ... JMO, i could be totoally wrong, but if you play timid and w/o confidence, you are going to shortchange some throws and make bad decisions

Something has to change with him to be something more than a backup. I never saw his high school tapes so all I have to go on is how he played this season and I was not the least bit impressed. A weak and not pinpoint accuracy arm is not what you can work with in the SEC.

[Regalcock]

If you want to talk about the LSU game watch it instead of looking at the stats. Smelley had pass after pass dropped by defenders and Blake's INT happened because Jason Barnes tips it back into the air into the hands of the LSU defender on a pretty well placed ball. Watch the game don't look at the stat line because the stats say Smelley had a decent game while he actually played very poorly.
I did watch that game twice. Blake did not outplay Smelley, I saw a scared Mitchell in that game. He was behind imo partially because of his suspension earlier in the year. Smelley could have thrown more picks in that game (he threw twice as many passes than BM). So could have Flynn thrown more picks (Cook should have taken one to the house). The difference was that Smelley was getting rid of the ball to the backs and tight ends and not tucking the ball and taking sacks and dropping the shotgun snaps over and over. Chris looked more poised in that game than our 5th senior.

Now, do I question the ability of Chris's arm....YES.

What scares me for this year about Garcia is with his talent and gunslinger mentality...poor decision making and throwing numerous bad interceptions.

[uscnoklahoma]

I wish I could disagree with him but unless Smelley starts either throwing stronger or gets his arm stronger in the SEC thats all he is. Thats why I don't want to see him start another game in his USC career unless he can improve his arm strength dramatically.

Petty had a weak arm and managed to do something no other USC QB did. Smelley can have a weak arm all day long if we win and he manages the game. If you think strong arms are vogue then may I suggest you dream about Pinkins and Jenkins.....nevermind...those dreams would be coined "nightmares" :rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

[scfan2001]

Just wondering what you guys think of this. I think Smelley will easily be able to handle our first two games against NC State and Vandy. Georgia in my opinion will most likely be our toughest game next season because they have national title implications on the line, and a lot of talent. Not to mention they will be looking for revenge from the past season. I know Garcia will be wanting to jump in there as soon as he can and start carving up defenses. I think that SOS should wait until the Georgia game to debut Garcia, and the new offense he's been working on. Especially since most DC's know SOS likes to throw the ball around. Having that dual threat will be a great asset to his system.

That would likely be a bad move.

[Ga_Gamecock]

Something has to change with him to be something more than a backup. I never saw his high school tapes so all I have to go on is how he played this season and I was not the least bit impressed. A weak and not pinpoint accuracy arm is not what you can work with in the SEC.
I agree with the change .. regardless who the QB is the emergence of Hills and WR X will be huge IMO. Blake and Sid had chemistry - something we solerly lacked until game 8ish and even then it still wasnt back to our level when Rice was here.

Plus rice could go up and get the jump balls in the red zone, and IMO that took a lot of pressure off of blake. Blake knew where sid would be, knew he would go get it - all he had to do was put it in the area

I think the lack of that made blake and chsi both look shaky @ times

When we have another 1 or 2 step up with that ability, coupled with Kenny and Dion, we will have a very solid WR corp

[ShutTheSuccop]

As much as Garcia is being built up, I pray that he does not struggle reading defenses etc b/c he is in for some serious criticism. THere is way more to runnign a spurrier offense than a strong arm adn the ability to run...Wuerffle had a wead arm by todays standards but somehow managed to win a heisman, go figure

[CoverTwo]

That would likely be a bad move.

Agreed.

You're f'in nuts if you think Steve Spurrier is going to yank CS if he beats NCST & Vandy and put in a RS Frosh with limited experience against possibly the best team in the country while running a new offense..That would be a recipe for disaster.

Listen, either 4 things are going to happen:

1. Garcia wins the job outright

2. Chris Smelley wins the job outright

3. Chris Smelley is the starter coming out of camp. Garcia gets some spot play and eventually works into the starting role by midseason.

4. Spurrier cant make up his mind and rotates them.

[Ga_Gamecock]

im sure we will have a defined #1 and 2 heading into NCSU ... but i think both will see some action as well. I hope garcia is as good as advertised.

Spurrier sure does talk very highly of him

[Regalcock]

Agreed.

You're f'in nuts if you think Steve Spurrier is going to yank CS if he beats NCST & Vandy and put in a RS Frosh with limited experience against possibly the best team in the country while running a new offense..That would be a recipe for disaster.

Listen, either 4 things are going to happen:

1. Garcia wins the job outright

2. Chris Smelley wins the job outright

3. Chris Smelley is the starter coming out of camp. Garcia gets some spot play and eventually works into the starting role by midseason.

4. Spurrier cant make up his mind and rotates them.

5. They both play bad and Beecher beats them out.

[CoverTwo]

5. They both play bad and Beecher beats them out.

Prepare for a 6-6 or 5-7 season if that happens or if Reid & Aramis are forced into the fire..just sayin.

[Regalcock]

Prepare for a 6-6 or 5-7 season if that happens or if Reid & Aramis are forced into the fire..just sayin.

Oh I agree..just trying to give Beecher a little love since JAYDOGG is not around.:rotfl:

[maddog44]

Wouldn't it be great if we were on here talking about how nice it is to have two (or three) qbs we are pretty confident about and therefore don't have to rush our incoming freshmen onto the field.
Just sayin' .........i trust the OBC will have BOTH Smelley and Garcia ready to play whatever role he needs them to play at the time. BTW..... I believe they are BOTH very capable options.:cocky:

[gearhead302]

I'll just say that HBC's talking pretty good about garcia!!!! and has been since last year. I went to the wild wing for the call in show right before the clempson game and he was talking about him then!!!!! I'm not trying to assume anything but I would not be susprised at all if garcia finds his way on the field soon. I think/hope he does well he seems to have a mean streak which could be good. the boy has skills and if the HBC impressed and excited about him then you can bet your ass that I am too!!!!!

[cocky2007]

I just want to state that Chris Smelley had the 3rd best freshman season for a QB in USC history behind only Taneyhill and Ellis.

He played far better as a freshman than Matthew Stafford did.

[cocky2007]

Here's a page of Chris Smelley clips in high school.

His arm strength looks pretty strong to me, regardless of the weak competition.

http://southcarolina.rivals.com/video.asp?section=fbrecruit&pkey=34900&vidtype=prospect&vidid=57419

[Cockhornleghorn]

I think we see him starting game 1 and not looking back. I like Smelly but I think Garcia is the real deal.

I'm curious why you would think this when Garcia hasn't played a single down of college football. I hope Garcia is awesome and ready to lead us to a great season, but I'm not ready to make that proclamation yet.

[snoopcockycock]

Thats the thing I don't care about under the circumstances.

Blake was healthy and the better option.

Give me the seemingly more cocky QB in Garcia who is less likely in my opinion to lose confidence and has more physical gifts.

Its nothing personal against Smelley its just he replaced a verteren QB so thats how I will rated his performance as a verteren QB. Had he come in this year starting for the first time I wouldn't have expected as much which is unfair but everything depends on the circumstances and given those circumstances I think he didn't do all that well last year.
how can you not care about circumstances? everything is dependant on circumstances. you can't make a justifiable opinion with considering the circumstances, as proved by your previous comments.
better option? see my last sentence.
it is personal against smelley, you're not fooling anyone. you can't rate a freshman as a veteran, not with any intelligence anyway.
make up your mind. do you care about the circumstances or not?


first of all, GOTRICE, you are so bias against smelley that you can't even see the facts for the crap. CONWAY GAMECOCK absolutely went upside your head with good factual common sense, and you just kept spewing the anti smelley crap, like you didn't understand a word of it.
1. list the FACTS that you are using to back up your statement of garcia having a bigger upside than smelley.
2. if you are basing arm strength on video's of hs play, then you might want to go back and look at smelley's hs vid's. he showed a very strong arm.
3. even after conway gamecock showed you that smelley had better stats than blake, you still think blake was the better choice, why? you might want to look back at our record with blake back as the starter.
4. smelley went 4-2 as a starting redshirt freshman qb in the sec east! how can you have a problem with that? what do you expect from a freshman?
5. when garcia has these same problems, and he will, he is still a freshman, will you be nearly as hard on him? and why do you make excuses for every mistake blake made, and not offer that same mindset to smelley?

every member on here has the right to post their opinion, that is true. i'm sorry though, your opinion of smelley is unfounded, eroneous and down right sickening! not only is he a gamecock player, that you are bashing, but he doesn't deserve the rhetoric you are throwing at him. he has the sack to get out on the field and give this university his all, what the hell have you ever done for this school?


I just want to state that Chris Smelley had the 3rd best freshman season for a QB in USC history behind only Taneyhill and Ellis.

He played far better as a freshman than Matthew Stafford did.
excellent point!!! can you draw this up in a picture for gotrice?

[Coondog]

I'm curious why you would think this when Garcia hasn't played a single down of college football. I hope Garcia is awesome and ready to lead us to a great season, but I'm not ready to make that proclamation yet.


Well, it's because I thought this thread was about opinions. So from what I have read about him, and the way Spurrier has quoted that he is real excited about coaching him (something I have not heard him say about any other QB although he does seem excited about Hillary) and just the all around intensity I see in him even when standing on the sideline I get the feeling that he's going to be someone special.

I may be wrong, lord knows I've been wrong alot on this board in the past, but I just get the feeling that Garcia has that it factor that you don't see in every player. JMO

[rock23aj]

how can you not care about circumstances? everything is dependant on circumstances. you can't make a justifiable opinion with considering the circumstances, as proved by your previous comments.
better option? see my last sentence.
it is personal against smelley, you're not fooling anyone. you can't rate a freshman as a veteran, not with any intelligence anyway.
make up your mind. do you care about the circumstances or not?


first of all, GOTRICE, you are so bias against smelley that you can't even see the facts for the crap. CONWAY GAMECOCK absolutely went upside your head with good factual common sense, and you just kept spewing the anti smelley crap, like you didn't understand a word of it.
1. list the FACTS that you are using to back up your statement of garcia having a bigger upside than smelley.
2. if you are basing arm strength on video's of hs play, then you might want to go back and look at smelley's hs vid's. he showed a very strong arm.
3. even after conway gamecock showed you that smelley had better stats than blake, you still think blake was the better choice, why? you might want to look back at our record with blake back as the starter.
4. smelley went 4-2 as a starting redshirt freshman qb in the sec east! how can you have a problem with that? what do you expect from a freshman?
5. when garcia has these same problems, and he will, he is still a freshman, will you be nearly as hard on him? and why do you make excuses for every mistake blake made, and not offer that same mindset to smelley?

every member on here has the right to post their opinion, that is true. i'm sorry though, your opinion of smelley is unfounded, eroneous and down right sickening! not only is he a gamecock player, that you are bashing, but he doesn't deserve the rhetoric you are throwing at him. he has the sack to get out on the field and give this university his all, what the hell have you ever done for this school?



excellent point!!! can you draw this up in a picture for gotrice?



which freshman year? The one where he played against miss state and georgia or this past year?

[Freehawk]

That "new offense" will look suspiciously like Dondrial Pinkins' old offense.

I hope Garcia gets a haircut.

So far his only on the field highlights have been the reddish ones in his hair.

[garnetpreacher]

JMO, but smelley looked like he was throwing timid at times (out routes in the EZ vs UK come to mind) ... im not sold that his arm is weak, but that he was trying to 'place' the ball rather than sit back and fire it out there ... JMO, i could be totoally wrong, but if you play timid and w/o confidence, you are going to shortchange some throws and make bad decisions

one thing that made smelley's arm look a little weak was the fact that he was having to throw the ball a little early because of the lines poor protection. he wasn't able to relax and let it go as normal. he had to put a little air under the ball to give the reciever time to get to their spots and that is what led to some of his int's.. even spurrier commented on that a couple of times during the season. if our line can get it together in the spring and protect him it should be a fun spring game to watch smelley and garcia go at it along with beecher. all i have to base my expectations of garcia on is fall practice and that was not a pretty sight. i believe he will look much better in the spring, but until he gets in front of a big crowd at the brice and shows off, i won't get my hopes up too high. :wink:

[XLcock86]

[quote=FightingCock]Just wondering what you guys think of this. I think Smelley will easily be able to handle our first two games against NC State and Vandy. Georgia in my opinion will most likely be our toughest game next season because they have national title implications on the line, and a lot of talent. Not to mention they will be looking for revenge from the past season. I know Garcia will be wanting to jump in there as soon as he can and start carving up defenses. I think that SOS should wait until the Georgia game to debut Garcia, and the new offense he's been working on. Especially since most DC's know SOS likes to throw the ball around. Having that dual threat will be a great asset to his system.The OBC needs to put Garcia in on the first game and keep him there.. He is The Gamecocks only hope. We know what smelley can do and it aint that much. Let garcis be the man.

[Dr. Cock]

Lord help most of you if Garcia struggles next year. I just don't understand the Anti-Smelley setiments being thrown around in this thread. His arm is questionable, but he has definately shown the ability to put some zing on it when he absolutely has to (See his TD pass to Lecorn against UNC).

I mean, he was a RS Freshman! Going 4-2 in the toughest conference in the nation is a pretty damn big feat. He's got 3 years to get better, and he has more experience than any of our returning QBs. Garcia, while ultra-talented and will undoubtably be our starting QB one day, hasn't played a single down in college football, yet everyone is labeling him the starter. If Smelley shows the ability to improve, I think he'll be the starter for at least a good 3/4 of the season, with Garcia getting backup time.

[snoopcockycock]

they just don't seem to get that he was a freshman, and i don't understand them either, dr cock.
they just don't get that he will have a full two years in the system, which comes with two years of getting stronger in coach mark smiths strength program, and two years of studying, practicing and playing in sos's offense. plus, he will have a veteran ol in front of him for the first time, with veteran depth. on top of all of that, he will have the nations best wr recruiting class of 2007 to throw to, with a year in the system themselves.
all of those things are going to contribute to smelley being even better than last season, although i thought he was pretty damn spectacular at times last season.


and to answer your question rock23aj, the first two games were as a true freshman, and last season was as a redshirt freshman. the difference was a medical redshirt. i hope that helps you out.

[sc455]

I sincerely hope that Garcia starts the first game and every single game this season. I was not a big fan of Smelley's performance last season. I don't think he has a big enough arm to flourish in the SEC. Also his decision making ability leaves something to be desired. I think Garcia has the potential to be a star while Smelley has the potential to be an average QB at best. sounds like what everyone said about eli. how bout letting the guy play ball

[USCbaseballguy]

Ok Smelly < Garcia. Listen to the comments Steve made for Garcia and see how he made smelly 3rd string. Behind Beecher. Garcia has better tools better confidence and leadership. Therefore he will win the job.

[USCbaseballguy]

But my above statment is not ment to say smelly cant be good i just dont see him beating out a more talented and hard working guy. But if SOS thinks hes best for the team im willing to trust his judgement on QB's he knows a thing or two bout that.

[ertman420]

But my above statment is not ment to say smelly cant be good i just dont see him beating out a more talented and hard working guy. But if SOS thinks hes best for the team im willing to trust his judgement on QB's he knows a thing or two bout that.

Agreed. I've heard Spurrier say he wants to stay specifically to coach Garcia... he didn't mention Smelley, which leads me to believe that the HBC is a little more excited about Garcia than he is about the other QB's.

I'm not a Smelley hater or anything. I think he performed admirably on the 07 campaign. I jsut don't think his intangibles come close to those of Garcia.

I think Garcia is a leader on and off the field, and I know that he wants the ball. We've all heard the rumors that he has absolutely sick skills throwing AND running with the ball, I don't think there's any doubt that he has the tools to be our starting QB and to WIN. Where I have doubts about Garcia is his discipline (again on AND off the field) his knowledge of Spurrier's system, and his ability to read defenses and change the play call accordingly either in the huddle or at the line.

Obviously Smelley has demonstrated better discipline (I've never heard him get in trouble, and I haven't seen any hot-headed unsportsmanlike penalties called on him). He's also shown that he can read defenses, and that he has enough understanding of Spurrier's system to call his own audibles at the line.

However, assuming Garcia can keep himself under control AND learn the system well enough, I think overall he is the better QB. He definitely has the advantage when it comes to the physical tools, yet it remains to be seen whether or not he can control himself and learn enough to be effective next year.

[Click]

Watch his high school film. Thats how you can tell he has a cannon for an arm.

I've seen alot of both practice and game film of players who looked so awesome, but never translated it onto the field at the next level. Let's wait and see what he can do in a real game at the WB before proclaiming he's some kind of monster.

[rock23aj]

they just don't seem to get that he was a freshman, and i don't understand them either, dr cock.
they just don't get that he will have a full two years in the system, which comes with two years of getting stronger in coach mark smiths strength program, and two years of studying, practicing and playing in sos's offense. plus, he will have a veteran ol in front of him for the first time, with veteran depth. on top of all of that, he will have the nations best wr recruiting class of 2007 to throw to, with a year in the system themselves.
all of those things are going to contribute to smelley being even better than last season, although i thought he was pretty damn spectacular at times last season.


and to answer your question rock23aj, the first two games were as a true freshman, and last season was as a redshirt freshman. the difference was a medical redshirt. i hope that helps you out.



sarcasm...Smelley's redshirt freshman year, his 2nd year in the program wasnt as good as ALOT of true freshman qb's in the country. I hope he proves me wrong and does great but with coach pumping garcia up so much I dont see how he could beat him out unless he dramatically improved.

[FeartheSpur]

Garcia will be the starter. Smelley will play some. Hillary might play some.

[TStone]

Smelley played at least as well as he-who-must-not-be-bashed did last year so I never really understood why he saw no significant action after the Vandy game. (Smelley finished 2007 with a 127.46 pass efficiency rating vs. the other QB's 123.04 rating) It made more sense to me from a long term strategic perspective to leave the younger QB in to play since he was playing about evenly with a 5th year senior. I said that the entire second half of the season... not just in hindsight. What's done is done, but I don't see how anyone can comment negatively on Smelley when he was named SEC freshman of the week twice last season and finished the year with the highest passer rating among USC QBs with more than 25 pass attempts.

As for Garcia.... the battle will be won in fall camp for who will start against NC State and I honestly don't know who has the edge. Chris has the playing experience, but Spurrier sure does talk about Stepen a lot more than he does about Chris. Maybe I'm reading too much into it, but I think Spurrer has it in his mind that Gacia is the QB to beat. That won't mean anything when they get on the practice field and start throwing it around this spring and in the fall, but it tells me a lot about where coach sees the most talent.

There are too many variables for me to make a firm prediction, but I would say, barring injury or suspension, the probabilities lie somewhere around....

First game:
75% chance Smelley starts the first game.
25% chance Garcia starts.

The season:
50% chance Garcia starts more games than Smelley this year. (7+ starts for Garcia)
45% chance Smelley starts more games than Garcia this year. (7+ starts for Smelley)
4% chance they split the difference in starts (6 each)
1% chance anyone else starts.

[Goofyboy]

I hope all of the quarterbacks work like crazy in the off-season to fix their waaknesses, build their strengths, and compete like winners in the fall - and all season. I also would love for them to take-on a strong team leadership attitude like Brinkley and Cory boyd and lead on and off the field. I love leaders who let their dedication, loyalty, and performance speak for them much more than a rah!rah! mouth. Show everybody how good you can be and you will get a chance to play.

[Ga_Gamecock]

Garcia will be the starter. Smelley will play some. Hillary might play some.


IMO, hardly anything in life is a "lock" but IMO hillary will RS in 08 (99%) ... we have three qbs in chris, garcia, and tommy that will be our options in 08 ... again, JMO, but neither Hillary or Reid have a grasp of the O. there is no need to burn a RS year just to do it. besides, i fully expect our O to be clicking with SG or CS...

[heathbates]

unless SG really steps up this spring and shows he's got it...i say smelley starts...but no shit right?

[big cock fan]

i dont know how many of you guys have really seen garcia lately but if the season were to start today i think he would have a problem. Im not saying he's fat but he really doesent look to be in tip top shape, i know he still might have a cannon for an arm but he wasnt throwing up to much weight today from what i was told. So before we hail him as the new heisman give the kid a few years to prove his worth, and same goes for Chris.

[USCbaseballguy]

i dont know how many of you guys have really seen garcia lately but if the season were to start today i think he would have a problem. Im not saying he's fat but he really doesent look to be in tip top shape, i know he still might have a cannon for an arm but he wasnt throwing up to much weight today from what i was told. So before we hail him as the new heisman give the kid a few years to prove his worth, and same goes for Chris. Idk where you have seen him but i saw him not to long ago and he looked pretty lean and strong to me. But idk you could be right i thought he looked fine tho.

[COCKYTALKIN]

It's near impossible to predict what SOS will do with his QB's but... if Garcia does start (huge if) then that only means good things about our QB situation because Smelley did a standout job last year. This year's Super Bowl showed how even the mighty Tom Brady needs an O-Line to be effective, much less a redshirt freshman in the SEC.

My money is on Smelley starting and Garcia seeing action in "package" situations.

One advantage that Garcia should have is the fact that has probably, and I am assuming here, had the most time with alot of the stud receivers that wore redshirts with him last year.

I agree with GA here, Hillary is almost a lock for RS. QBs require time to develop, why burn a year and limit our playbook??

[acejrock]

As Mike Morgan says "Its Garcia's job to lose."

[reddot8481]

Hillary and Reid should be RS, we have 3 QBs ahead of them going into the spring. Smelley has the experience and talent to start for us, and I don't see why he wouldn't. He has had some decision making issues that he needs to deal with, but that can be fixed in the spring and summer practices. Garcia has the natural ability and from what I've heard from the prac notes and seen in the gym he should be able to push for the two spot. Beecher has shown some ability to make plays and should be slotted at the #2 going into spring. He will have to hold off Garcia and push Smelley in order to stay there.

Someone was questioning Smelley's arm, one point to make, last year when we needed a long throw or a last second heave it was Smelley who was in there. I would have to say that SOS thinks his arm power is fine.

[TKE226]

I am going to say that Garcia/Smelley rotate. As for who starts, it would depend on the prior weeks game. But to start the season against NCSU, I am going to say Smelley due to experience at this point. But I would look for Garcia to get in if Smelley doesnt perform early.

Hopefully it wont turn into one of those alternating QBs every series, because that is a disaster...nobody can get into a rhythm that way.

[CayceCock]

Does Garcia throw right or left handed....just curious. Never seen him throw a ball.

[reddot8481]

http://media.scout.com/media/image/33/337235.jpg

[USC4LIFE2]

I'm going to tell you what guys.Garcia is going to be really good in the future but Chris has the edge this year.Think about it Smelley has a year of experience in the SEC Garcia has a year of calling in plays.I'm not going to say Garcia won't play but to play in the SEC @ a full scale pace you need experience especially under Spurriers offense with timing patterns and all.So I say or for a better choice of words I think Chris gets the nod while Garcia gets his chances but it's Chris who will lead us most of this year.Thats just the way I see it.

[Ga_Gamecock]

Does Garcia throw right or left handed....just curious. Never seen him throw a ball.


http://media.scout.com/media/image/33/337235.jpg


Well, he def holds the ball with his R
LOL

Ive seen him whiz a few around and he does put a lot of zip on the ball. I just hopes that translates solid play when its gametime

[jaydogg843]

I think its real funny how people think a RS fresh is going to lead our team and he's never taken a snap in the SEC. Smelley will likely start. He may have a true Fresh. kind of Tebow role at the start of season then depending on how he does and how Chris is performing then that will determine his PT. But I hope Beecher comes out guns blazin and leads us to the SEC champ.

[COCKYTALKIN]

Someone was questioning Smelley's arm, one point to make, last year when we needed a long throw or a last second heave it was Smelley who was in there. I would have to say that SOS thinks his arm power is fine.

I thought they brought in Beecher.

[Ga_Gamecock]

i think ur right ^^^

[usc1]

I dont think Hillary we'll redshirt.

[KCSuge]

Sorry but I think Garcia should start. He was the QB Spurrier wanted. He's been in the system a year. He can run. Good arm. Good touch from what I've heard. We didn't recruit him to come and sit behind Smelley and Beecher. We recruited him to take our team to another level. He needs to start doing that from Day 1. This is the kid who is supposed to make us a tough team to beat. The number 4 rated dual threat QB coming out of high school. He is our guy, bottom line. And we need him not to be a bust. I really think our season depends on Garcia playing like the highly touted recruit he was. If he does that, he can overcome any O-line problems like Syvelle did. To me Garcia is the key to the season. I just feel it in my gut. It's time for these highly regarded recruits to start to pay off. Done rambling now.

[USC4LIFE2]

Well Chris was a highly regarded recruit also.Don't get me wrong I think Garcia will end up taking over eventually but experience over youth every time.In the begining of the season Chris has the advantage, he's played well in the SEC for a year.I know Garcia is going to possibly be better but it takes time.Chris gets the nod for 1 reason "experience".After some time Garcia will be our go to guy.Once again that's just the way I see it.

[CoverTwo]

Sorry but I think Garcia should start. He was the QB Spurrier wanted. He's been in the system a year. He can run. Good arm. Good touch from what I've heard. We didn't recruit him to come and sit behind Smelley and Beecher. We recruited him to take our team to another level. He needs to start doing that from Day 1. This is the kid who is supposed to make us a tough team to beat. The number 4 rated dual threat QB coming out of high school. He is our guy, bottom line. And we need him not to be a bust. I really think our season depends on Garcia playing like the highly touted recruit he was. If he does that, he can overcome any O-line problems like Syvelle did. To me Garcia is the key to the season. I just feel it in my gut. It's time for these highly regarded recruits to start to pay off. Done rambling now.

Not to nit-pick..but..John Brantley was Spurrier's #1 choice.

and you have to realize that it is extremely hard for a redshirt freshman to step in from the get go and put up strong numbers..We are going to have to deal with his growing pains..Problem is that when he starts throwing picks, everyone is going to be calling for Smelley/Beecher/Hillary/McCollum..Our fan base is thin on patience when it comes to the Quarterback position.

[Ga_Gamecock]

and you have to realize that it is extremely hard for a redshirt freshman to step in from the get go and put up strong numbers..We are going to have to deal with his growing pains..Problem is that when he starts throwing picks, everyone is going to be calling for Smelley/Beecher/Hillary/McCollum..Our fan base is thin on patience when it comes to the Quarterback position.

You can see that coming from a mile away ... just look at what is currently being said about spurrier right now: 'lost his touch' 'cant cut it' etc ... the sad thing is we live in a world of instant gratification. everybody wants results and wants them yesterday, not a year from now - no matter that we are lightyears behind in facilities/recruiting/history/allure/you name it ...

and im actually dreading the skid that Garcia is going to go through. IMO its inevitable. Just like stafford had his ups and downs, so will garcia and any other young QB.

its so sad (and true) its funny: the backup QB will always be the best guy on the team LOL

Guys were already talking up Hillary and how he will be running the show b/f you know it. IMO we wont see him for two years.

[Love Boat Captain]

and you have to realize that it is extremely hard for a redshirt freshman to step in from the get go and put up strong numbers..We are going to have to deal with his growing pains..Problem is that when he starts throwing picks, everyone is going to be calling for Smelley/Beecher/Hillary/McCollum..Our fan base is thin on patience when it comes to the Quarterback position.

Truer words have never been spoken

[CoverTwo]

You can see that coming from a mile away ... just look at what is currently being said about spurrier right now: 'lost his touch' 'cant cut it' etc ... the sad thing is we live in a world of instant gratification. everybody wants results and wants them yesterday, not a year from now - no matter that we are lightyears behind in facilities/recruiting/history/allure/you name it ...

and im actually dreading the skid that Garcia is going to go through. IMO its inevitable. Just like stafford had his ups and downs, so will garcia and any other young QB.

its so sad (and true) its funny: the backup QB will always be the best guy on the team LOL

Guys were already talking up Hillary and how he will be running the show b/f you know it. IMO we wont see him for two years.


So true.

Honestly, I shake my head when I hear people talk up Garcia like he is our savior..I'll predict it now..IF he starts the entire season he will throw around 2000 yards, between 10 & 15 TD's, and AT LEAST 10 INT's..To his credit he will have some rushing yards.

I dont expect him to play like Sam Bradford.

[USC4LIFE2]

^^^^So very true.....Guys kind of try to keep it in perspective.As much as we want to see Garcia just take over an kick ass.Just give the man who sat back and waited his turn a chance.I'm sure Garcia will want the same thing when some new stud QB Spurrier picks up comes in and tries to take over.Give the man a chance

[Teamoney]

i say: first game go all out. Smelley in the pocket, Garcia scrambl'n and up the middle, and B Maddox taking direct snaps.

[CoverTwo]

I dont think we have to worry about vanilla playcalling against NCST, Vandy, and UGA..Spurrier will have to work the whole playbook.

[USCbaseballguy]

You people act like smelly got soooo much experience last year. 6 games hes started not all SEC games. You want to look at it that why by spurriers account Garcia gave all our 1st team SEC defence it could handle and wayyy more in practice. No one was complaining when smelly took over from blake and lead our team last year as a rs fresh. Idk why you think garcia is soo far behind in experience. And if you remember when Garcia commited Spurrier said that if he came in and got the playbook down he could have played last year. Spurrier doesn't care bout freshman and sophmore if he thinks garcia is better he will start vice versa for smelly. This is not to say smelly cant play well and wont be the starter but from what i have seen of them both i expect Garcia to start.

[Gamecock_Aholic]

You people act like smelly got soooo much experience last year. 6 games hes started not all SEC games. You want to look at it that why by spurriers account Garcia gave all our 1st team SEC defence it could handle and wayyy more in practice. No one was complaining when smelly took over from blake and lead our team last year as a rs fresh. Idk why you think garcia is soo far behind in experience. And if you remember when Garcia commited Spurrier said that if he came in and got the playbook down he could have played last year. Spurrier doesn't care bout freshman and sophmore if he thinks garcia is better he will start vice versa for smelly. This is not to say smelly cant play well and wont be the starter but from what i have seen of them both i expect Garcia to start.

A) learn how to spell. its smelley

B) how many games has Garcia played?.....thank you

[USCbaseballguy]

how many games has Garcia played?.....thank you hmm so judging by your post your saying you will take half a seasons experience over light years of talent? Spurrier has said he belives you need a QB that can run and throw to win games now days. Hmm I wasnt too impressed with smelleys feet. And i think we all know Spurrier wants to win. And also all this experience he has. he sure as heck wasn't ready for tenn so i dont know how much its doing for him. just a thought to think about. And my apologies.

[Gamecock_Aholic]

hmm so judging by your post your saying you will take half a seasons experience over light years of talent? Spurrier has said he belives you need a QB that can run and throw to win games now days. Hmm I wasnt too impressed with smellys feet. And i think we all know Spurrier wants to win. And also all this experience he has he sure as heck wasn't ready for tennesse so i dont know how much its doing for him. just a thought to think about.


you can have all the talant in the world, but when you step in a stadium that has 90,000 pepole screaming at you, things change. talant doesnt matter at that point. if he's not mentally ready, he'll get killed. Smelley has at least dealt with that....just a thought to think about.

[Gamecocks4ever]

Yeah, Smelly has already proved he has great poise in the pocket.

[Blitzer]

So true.

Honestly, I shake my head when I hear people talk up Garcia like he is our savior..I'll predict it now..IF he starts the entire season he will throw around 2000 yards, between 10 & 15 TD's, and AT LEAST 10 INT's..To his credit he will have some rushing yards.

I dont expect him to play like Sam Bradford. I completely agree. People act like he is the biggest, most hyped QB recruit we have ever had. He was rated about has highly as Syvelle and Blake were (not as high as Ellis or Taneyhill). He has never taken a snap in a college game. If I were a betting man and I was betting on who got the most snaps this year, I'd put my money on the kid that beat UK on a wet field on national tv when we were both ranked in the top ten.

[USCbaseballguy]

you can have all the talant in the world, but when you step in a stadium that has 90,000 pepole screaming at you, things change. talant doesnt matter at that point. if he's not mentally ready, he'll get killed. Smelley has at least dealt with that....just a thought to think about.

How well did Smelley handle that against Tenn? He looked rattled and told Spurrier he wasn't ready. So i guess just hearing 90,000 people yelling and then playing poorly is enough? And if it was i belive Garcia was in the stadium too so he heard the noise as well if thats all that matters. Spurrier wants confidence and an cocky attitude. Sort of like himself.

[Gamecock_Aholic]

How well did Smelley handle that against Tenn? He looked rattled and told Spurrier he wasn't ready. So i guess just hearing 90,000 people yelling and then playing poorly is enough? And if it was i belive Garcia was in the stadium too so he heard the nois as well if thats all that matters. Spurrier wants confidence and an cocky attitude. Sort of like himself.


Smelley now knows what to expect. i honestly cant believe you think Gacia would have done better. we all want Garcia to step in and become Tebow, but lets be honest. thats not gonna happen. i hope so so so much that Garcia comes out and surprises everyone. but i just cant see it happening with his first year playing.

[ConwayGamecock]

hmm so judging by your post your saying you will take half a seasons experience over light years of talent? Spurrier has said he belives you need a QB that can run and throw to win games now days. Hmm I wasnt too impressed with smelleys feet. And i think we all know Spurrier wants to win. And also all this experience he has. he sure as heck wasn't ready for tenn so i dont know how much its doing for him. just a thought to think about. And my apologies.

Having in-game experience is always a bonus compared to never setting foot onto a field in a real game for the Gamecocks. I seem to remember how all our QB's - Mitchell and Beecher included - struggled with audibles and making the correct read in a timely fashion. Obviously Spurrier's system isn't the most simplistic for QB's. Will Garcia also struggle with this? And Smelley isn't exactly lacking in talent as well.

Once again, the most success we had last season was with Smelley at the helm. I personally will welcome ANY QB that can lead our offense to wins with smart play with open arms, but the smart money is on Smelley being able to do it better out of the chutes, due to his experience. If Garcia ends up the starter, I hope it's because he's just head and shoulders above our other guys and is a quick learner of SOS's schemes, and NOT because he's the lesser of three evils.....

I just don't understand why so many here have to desperately support one USC QB against the other, like it matters to them personally whether their pick leads USC to a winning season, or ends up playing a human shield to SOS while he calls in the plays. We did this the past 2 seasons with Mitchell, too. Why do we need to live vicariously through a player? They ALL have "Gamecocks" on their jerseys.....I will root for all of them. Pulling for Smelley now is the common sense call, not because Garcia is a bad QB....

[Gamecock_Aholic]

Having in-game experience is always a bonus compared to never setting foot onto a field in a real game for the Gamecocks. I seem to remember how all our QB's - Mitchell and Beecher included - struggled with audibles and making the correct read in a timely fashion. Obviously Spurrier's system isn't the most simplistic for QB's. Will Garcia also struggle with this? And Smelley isn't exactly lacking in talent as well.

Once again, the most success we had last season was with Smelley at the helm. I personally will welcome ANY QB that can lead our offense to wins with smart play with open arms, but the smart money is on Smelley being able to do it better out of the chutes, due to his experience. If Garcia ends up the starter, I hope it's because he's just head and shoulders above our other guys and is a quick learner of SOS's schemes, and NOT because he's the lesser of three evils.....

I just don't understand why so many here have to desperately support one USC QB against the other, like it matters to them personally whether their pick leads USC to a winning season, or ends up playing a human shield to SOS while he calls in the plays. We did this the past 2 seasons with Mitchell, too. Why do we need to live vicariously through a player? They ALL have "Gamecocks" on their jerseys.....I will root for all of them. Pulling for Smelley now is the common sense call, not because Garcia is a bad QB....


thank you...

[USCbaseballguy]

Smelley now knows what to expect. i honestly cant believe you think Gacia would have done better. we all want Garcia to step in and become Tebow, but lets be honest. thats not gonna happen. i hope so so so much that Garcia comes out and surprises everyone. but i just cant see it happening with his first year playing.
See i agree with that he wont be tebow completly diffrent style. But i do think that Garcia will not be discounted from started due to experience, our qb next year will be whoever is better not more experienced. Garcia may or may not be great his first year but i know we have 2 good quarterbacks and i trust spurrier to get the one that gives us the best chance to win on the feild. To the Garcia playing agaist Tenn point we will never know how good or bad he would have done. The only comment on that is he would have been able to scramble when the o-line broke down. But he might has also been rattled like smelley and not done any better or worse we will never know.

[cockofstono]

What if both of them play well the first couple of weeks? Then what happens? Besides the lovefest of course.

[CoverTwo]

Our schedule doesnt set up for us to rotate QB's.

We come right out of the gate with a much improved NCST team, a Vandy team that beat us last season (and is playing at home), and against possibly the #1 team in the country.

We have got to have a permanent starter coming out of Spring ball. IMO.

and Spurrier said that he doesnt want to rotate QB's this year.

[cockofstono]

Our schedule doesnt set up for us to rotate QB's.

We come right out of the gate with a much improved NCST team, a Vandy team that beat us last season (and is playing at home), and against possibly the #1 team in the country.

We have got to have a permanent starter coming out of Spring ball. IMO.

and Spurrier said that he doesnt want to rotate QB's this year.

Our schedule sets up where we have to have more than 1 qb play. Unrealistic to expect 1 sophomore( or redshirt freshman) to play a full year, under coach Spurrier, against our schedule. One may take control eventually but it will not happen the 1st three weeks of the season.

[CoverTwo]

Our schedule sets up where we have to have more than 1 qb play. Unrealistic to expect 1 sophomore( or redshirt freshman) to play a full year, under coach Spurrier, against our schedule. One may take control eventually but it will not happen the 1st three weeks of the season.

We arent starting the season off with cupcakes. Remember that.

We dont get warmup games with ULL & SCST..We kick it off with an ACC team and 2 SEC teams..We have got to have a QB in place.

[Ga_Gamecock]

you can have all the talant in the world, but when you step in a stadium that has 90,000 pepole screaming at you, things change. talant doesnt matter at that point. if he's not mentally ready, he'll get killed. Smelley has at least dealt with that....just a thought to think about.


Well the reason smelley fell out of favor a sos was he allegedly told the hbc he was shaken and the d was moving too fast for him. Just FYI. I know he's young. I have a lot of confidence in our 2 young qbs and SOS teaching ability but to say that SG is going to fold in front of 90k is assuming a lot. Esp when smelley did just that at neyland.

IMO garcias ability to scramble will take the pressure off of him. I'm sure SOS is drilling that into his head. One thing he seemed frustrated with Blake is blakes tendency to hold onto the ball and get sacked. As my old hs coach would say 'throw it to your momma' LOL

With SG we will see a lot of the scrambling abilty syvslle brought to the table. The abilty to pick up crital chunks of yardage here and there will sustain drives and make our O much more productive while keeping the d fresh.

Jmo

[cockofstono]

We arent starting the season off with cupcakes. Remember that.

We dont get warmup games with ULL & SCST..We kick it off with an ACC team and 2 SEC teams..We have got to have a QB in place.

Exactly. Neither will be able to solidify the job enough during practice to eliminate the other.
There are not any 300 plus yard/ 5 td games out there.
And that is the type of performance it would take to eliminate one guy or the other from getting quality snaps. BTW, I hope I eat those words.

I agree with you in principle but I don't think that situation is feasable given the current state of affairs( and HBC).

[garnetpreacher]

i say that at the end of the season if we are successful that smelley will have gotten about 70% of the snaps with garcia coming in for certain circumstances and relief at the end of games. if smelley get's hurt all bets are off as to who will win out between garcia and beecher. hillary will not see the field this year as a quarterback unless our top three guys get waxed on their motor scooters going to practice in fall camp.

[jaydogg843]

why is Beecher being overlooked though, he didn't do bad last year. He didn't receive enough snaps to truley see what he would do.

[jaydogg843]

att comp. yds pct. ypa tds int rating


Blake Mitchell (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=146834)152 255 1747 59.6 6.85 10 9 123.0

Chris Smelley (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=190695)92 162 1176 56.8 7.26 9 7 127.5

Tommy Beecher (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=173666)14 23 175 60.9 7.61 1 1 130.4


Numbers don't lie Beecher had the best rating, highest completion pecentage and yards per throw

[The Yancey]

Barring injury you will only see Smelley playing in a mop up role.

[duckhuntersc]

att comp. yds pct. ypa tds int rating


Blake Mitchell (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=146834)152 255 1747 59.6 6.85 10 9 123.0

Chris Smelley (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=190695)92 162 1176 56.8 7.26 9 7 127.5

Tommy Beecher (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=173666)14 23 175 60.9 7.61 1 1 130.4


Numbers don't lie Beecher had the best rating, highest completion pecentage and yards per throw but look at the teams he played against.

[Zee]

Just to counter some of the posts I've read in this thread....

The history of the SEC has shown that Freshman/ First year starter Qb's can have a great deal of success in this league.

That being said...I think we'll learn a lot in the spring, and what we'll learn is that Garcia is the man.

[TStone]

att comp. yds pct. ypa tds int rating


Blake Mitchell (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=146834)152 255 1747 59.6 6.85 10 9 123.0

Chris Smelley (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=190695)92 162 1176 56.8 7.26 9 7 127.5

Tommy Beecher (http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/player/profile?playerId=173666)14 23 175 60.9 7.61 1 1 130.4


Numbers don't lie Beecher had the best rating, highest completion pecentage and yards per throw

Seriously? He threw 23 passes. I'm not saying he is or isn't more talented than any other QB we have, but I don't believe that 23 passes are enough to qualify as a significant enough amount of playing time to draw any conclusions when comparing his stats against guys who each threw over 160 passes.

[jaydogg843]

Seriously? He threw 23 passes. I'm not saying he is or isn't more talented than any other QB we have, but I don't believe that 23 passes are enough to qualify as a significant enough amount of playing time to draw any conclusions when comparing his stats against guys who each threw over 160 passes.

right... but I'm just saying we haven't seen him enough to disqualify what he can do. When you only give him an avg. of 5-10 snaps a game that he appears in. That ain't enough to get your feet wet or gain confidence.

[Zee]

right... but I'm just saying we haven't seen him enough to disqualify what he can do. When you only give him an avg. of 5-10 snaps a game that he appears in. That ain't enough to get your feet wet or gain confidence.
and that's why we pay coaches so they can evaluate who is/isn't starting GB material.

[Coondog]

Well the reason smelley fell out of favor a sos was he allegedly told the hbc he was shaken and the d was moving too fast for him. Just FYI. I know he's young. I have a lot of confidence in our 2 young qbs and SOS teaching ability but to say that SG is going to fold in front of 90k is assuming a lot. Esp when smelley did just that at neyland.

IMO garcias ability to scramble will take the pressure off of him. I'm sure SOS is drilling that into his head. One thing he seemed frustrated with Blake is blakes tendency to hold onto the ball and get sacked. As my old hs coach would say 'throw it to your momma' LOL

With SG we will see a lot of the scrambling abilty syvslle brought to the table. The abilty to pick up crital chunks of yardage here and there will sustain drives and make our O much more productive while keeping the d fresh.

Jmo


I couldn't agree more. I do believe that it's Smelley's job to lose due to experience just like Blake last year. But looking back at last years spring game niether QB played very well at all and if Chris comes out this spring flat than that just leaves the door wide open for Garcia. I'm not taking anything away from Beecher because I really like him but I don't see him as a starter, JMO.

With that said I think Spurrier will know who his starting QB will be by the end of spring and whoever it is I will support 100%. I still think it will be Garcia but again thats JMO.

[jaydogg843]

Beecher's numbers are good considering... is all I'm saying

[Click]

I think we're lucky to have 2 solid QB's with game experience coming back, a highly touted RS freshmen who will have a chance to prove himself, and 2 solid QB prospects coming in this Fall.

[IHateOrange]

Beecher??? as a starter? I had that nightmare once.

[jaydogg843]

Beecher??? as a starter? I had that nightmare once.


name one good reason to justify why it couldn't happen. We're talking about the smartest kid on the team. He has a nice arm. just needs confidence I think. I hear he's gaining it. I think junior/senior year, its his team

[jaydogg843]

when Beecher graduates, what Gamecock will I talk about? I may be able to ramble about his glory days that he's going to produce these next two years.

[jaydogg843]

4500 yards career for Beecher 35 tds 10 ints and highest QB rating in Gamecock history? Would you settle for that as a fan, Beecher would give you those numbers. O, forgot SEC champ, final number 3 in BCS ranking SG takes us to NT the following year.

[gamecockfinatic2007]

i dont see beecher having those numbers.love for it to happen.make it possible to keep SG around for 4 years.but i just dont see it happening.

[jaydogg843]

SG is here four years until he proves me differ

[jaydogg843]

TEBOW might go four years!

[Ga_Gamecock]

Im not going to write beecher off by any stetch, but i think its telling when we hear SOS talk up Garcia all the time ... and TB has donr well when we have been in a pinch(clemson 06), but Smelley has already bypassed him in the pecking order ... Garcia is primed to either bypass smelley or be nipping at his heels. My guess is SG is the guy come Sept, but thats JMO.

Thats the sign of a program upgrading the talent. Its not a slight or criticism of Beecher, thats just the way it works when our staff goes out and gets better and better players every year. TBH, Im surprised he outlasted Cade as cade seemed to have more impressive accolades coming out of HS ... regardless who wins it in the end, if SOS makes the call, then hes got my vote. SOS knows a thing or two about QBs

[GamecockLawyer]

TEBOW might go four years!

Not if he keeps banging into SEC linebackers every other play...

[IHateOrange]

name one good reason to justify why it couldn't happen. We're talking about the smartest kid on the team. He has a nice arm. just needs confidence I think. I hear he's gaining it. I think junior/senior year, its his team

The one time Beecher played when it mattered was the 06 Clemson game and he was shaking at the line of scrimmage. I was in the upper deck and noticed that. I have also watched him throw into too many double and TRIPLE coverages for my taste.

[wade8283]

The one time Beecher played when it mattered was the 06 Clemson game and he was shaking at the line of scrimmage. I was in the upper deck and noticed that. I have also watched him throw into too many double and TRIPLE coverages for my taste.

That's called "Sidney Rice Hangover". I agree with you though. When our guys got in trouble they just threw it up. Garcia is definatly going to play next year. Maybe even Arimous Hillary. Spurrier likes his running ability.

[Ga_Gamecock]

jmo, but we wont see hillary for 2 years .... too many guys ahead of him... plus hes a fr ... lets get garcia on the field b/f kids who are still in hs are taking over the qb spot

[donbgamecock]

Im not going to write beecher off by any stetch, but i think its telling when we hear SOS talk up Garcia all the time ... and TB has donr well when we have been in a pinch(clemson 06), but Smelley has already bypassed him in the pecking order ... Garcia is primed to either bypass smelley or be nipping at his heels. My guess is SG is the guy come Sept, but thats JMO.

Thats the sign of a program upgrading the talent. Its not a slight or criticism of Beecher, thats just the way it works when our staff goes out and gets better and better players every year. TBH, Im surprised he outlasted Cade as cade seemed to have more impressive accolades coming out of HS ... regardless who wins it in the end, if SOS makes the call, then hes got my vote. SOS knows a thing or two about QBs


I don't know if Smelly has bypassed anyone. He took a few steps back last year mid season. His throwing style drives me crazy. Is it that he does not have the arm strength to get the ball to players when they need it or is it that he has not picked up on getting a feel when to float them over the middle when it really needs to be zipped there. I don't want to take anything away from Smelly, but he'll need to pick it up this year to see the field.

[4|_3|<54/\/|)3R]

Garcia is one helluva talented QB, but he has no experience at this level. IMHO, regardless of who "starts", BOTH players will see significant playing time to take advantage of their abilities.

[Ga_Gamecock]

Is it that he does not have the arm strength to get the ball to players when they need it or is it that he has not picked up on getting a feel when to float them over the middle when it really needs to be zipped there.

The arm strength is there - I think he was playing timid, but thats JMO

[87Cock09]

I don't know I think he really just lacks arm strength. However, if he is accurate and makes good decisions, it doesnt really matter. Arm strength is not really that important to Spurrier, just ask Danny Wuerful.

[papasmurf]

I think it will be Smelley with Garcia being acclimated till mid season...then Coach will have a package for Garcia...
http://img249.imageshack.us/img249/214/erin37mi9.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[kda]

I think Carolina as a whole (fans, students, team) need someone like Garcia so step in and be cocky and be enthusiastic, and have that swagger, just like Coach Spurrier. I know it would give me a hell of a boost after the way the season ended. I hope he can do it, because I would be thrilled to see him out there scrambling around and making something happen.

[COCKYTALKIN]

RE: Smelley's arm strength

Spurrier said himself that Smelley has plenty of arm strength. He agreed that sometimes it appears as though he could put a little more zip on the ball, but arm strength is not an issue.

I don't quite understand how anyone on this board could assume Garcia's arm strength is superior to Smelley's, and... quite honestly... what difference does it make?

[COCKROCK]

I don't quite understand how anyone on this board could assume Garcia's arm strength is superior to Smelley's, and... quite honestly... what difference does it make?

I agree.....

Take Phil Petty, he didn't have the greatest arm strength nor was he the most mobile QB.... He just didn't do stupid things that would cost you the game... I want a QB that plays smart.

[dreammachine]

It is good to hear the many different viewpoints and opinions concerning who will be our starting QB in 08. The thing that I take a MAJOR EXCEPTION TOO IS people stating that Smelley, Mitchell, or any other QB was scared. UNLESS YOU HAVE PLAYED IN THE SEC AT QB, YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO MAKE A STATEMENT LIKE THIS! These young men may not play as good as we would like them to play in each game, but who does? NFL QB's have "bad days and sometimes bad years"! I live and die each week with the Gamecocks, but let's remember that it takes more than just a good QB to win a game. The O-Line, Running Backs, and Receivers, all have to do their part. The QB Position is the most critical, but it is only as good as all the other parts added together.

Concering who will be our starting qb for the 2008 season will be a decision that Coach Spurrrier will have to make. After Spring Practice, in which all eligible QB's will be given a chance to show how much they have learned of the SOS System, how well they exhibit their talent and leadership abilities on the field, combine that with a good workout system over the summer and bringing a sharp mind, strong athletic body into fall practice and proving to our O-Team Coaches that they have earned the #1 Starting Position, then Coach Spurrier can earn the big bucks that we are paying him to announce to the Gamecock Nation who are #1 QB going into our first game will be. That being said, with Coach Spurrier past actions of pulling his starting QB when the O-Team is not playing up to it's ability, I think that the Gamecocks will have three QB's competing for the # 1 Position, C. Smelly, S. Garcia, & T. Beecher. With the knowledge and experience that Smelly and Beecher have of the SOS System, you have to give them the edge at this moment. Maybe, Garcia is the more talented athlete of this group, on that note, practice will tell! I do think that there is going to be many "game type situations" where Coach Spurrier will swap QB's to give us the advantage over the other team. This is where having multiple, versatile QB's will come into our favor. If Smelly is our Starting QB or if it is Garcia or Beecher, I will be fine with that decision, because it will be made by someone who is a LOT SMARTER THAN 99 % OF US THAT ARE SITTING IN THE STANDS!

I honestly think that having another year in the system really benefits both Beecher and Smelly. Garcia brings "pure raw untested athletic ability" to the position and I am sure that HE WILL HAVE HIS MOMENTS THIS YEAR. If Garcia becomes the #1 QB, then that's great, if not, whoever SOS has installed at the position should be fine for the rest of the Gamecock Nation! Go Gamecocks!:wink:

[cockofstono]

It is good to hear the many different viewpoints and opinions concerning who will be our starting QB in 08. The thing that I take a MAJOR EXCEPTION TOO IS people stating that Smelley, Mitchell, or any other QB was scared. UNLESS YOU HAVE PLAYED IN THE SEC AT QB, YOU HAVE NO RIGHT TO MAKE A STATEMENT LIKE THIS! These young men may not play as good as we would like them to play in each game, but who does? NFL QB's have "bad days and sometimes bad years"! I live and die each week with the Gamecocks, but let's remember that it takes more than just a good QB to win a game. The O-Line, Running Backs, and Receivers, all have to do their part. The QB Position is the most critical, but it is only as good as all the other parts added together.

I do not disagree with anything you said but
Most of the "scared talk" comes from the Smelley/ @UT incident.
People are just paraphrasing a conversation between Coach Spurrier and Chris that Coach has already confirmed took place.
As far as Mitchell goes, I have learned to not even acknowledge his existence, while on this website.
Like it or not, nerves and the ability to stay calm when facing adversity are part of the deal( for good SEC qbs). And Smelley may have that ability, who knows,he will only be a sophomore.

[Goofyboy]

If I had to guess...
Garcia starts from day one.
Smelley and Beecher both get playing time, because we finally start blowing out some of our lesser opponents.
Our offense finally commands enough respect to give the defense the support they need.
It will not be all because the quarterback performs, but because the elements come together to take advantage of his abilities. Garcia is the one QB I think has the qualities to make that happen.

[Ga_Gamecock]

just curious...

i heard he was moved out of campus housing, and banned from spring practices until agust 15th, but is he @ the practices? can he go and watch?
can he work out with the team (weights, etc)...

anyone have an update?

[RbrewDawg]

Wondering the same thing myself...

[spurmanski]

Saw he and some family last saturday in a restaurant......I talked with his mom a bit while he talked with some buds but we had no USC nor football conversation. I hardly recognized him with the "trim" hair. I have been and am a huge fan......he IS a good guy and WILL succeed here......moreover I really believe he will be a difference maker toward the end of this seson

[CaptainCrunch]

oh he cut his long hair off?

[ColaCock]

"long hair don't care."