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

[therealUSC]

Hey, whats up everyone? I am new on this site, I have been a Carolina fan my whole life and plan to be for the rest of it. I was just curious if anyone knows where I might be able to find some stats on stephen garcia? and also some of the other players who will play next season. Thanks to all who can help, and GO COCKS!!!!!!!!!!:woo:

[Cockholio]

He's redshirting this season, so no stats. Reports are that he looks good on scout team O.

[gamecockfandrew]

Reports say that Smelly is coming back in '08.

[therealUSC]

Sorry I meant his high school stats. I know he is redshirted. thanks

[Will4144]

http://www.stephengarcia.org/stephen-garcia-statistics.php

[jstrom]

Reports say that Smelly is coming back in '08.

Chris Smelley, the new Blake Mitchell

WATCH OUT FOR THAT BUS, CHRIS!

[spurmanski]

We will have at least 3 QBs vying for the starting spot next season.....all could be HeismanWinners
:football:

[kozakid]

We will have at least 3 QBs vying for the starting spot next season.....all could be HeismanWinners
:football:

I presume you mean a different starter and Heisman winner for three consecutive years. That would really be nice. Oh, you didn't say all will be. Instead, I guess you meant any of the three could win it next year, depending upon which one starts. Anyhow, we haven't had a Heisman winner since Todd Ellis, so I figure it's about time.

:woo:

[morgan n' 7]

George Rogers is our only Heisman winner(1980). Todd was a candidate in '89 till the NC State cheap shot ended his career.

[Spur's Addiction]

Welcome to the board.

[Go Cocks]

I read in today's paper that Coach Spurrier said that no, he's not leaving SC because he's really looking forward to coaching Stephen Garcia. I hope he's as good as advertised.

[USCfan37]

I was talking with a friend yesterday that told me that about an hour before the KY game several guys were on the field fooling around throwing the ball around. Garacia was one of them and he, being a pretty good fan and played FB at VMI, was noticing the techneque of Garcia and the tight spirals he was throwing. They were standing on the south end 40 throwing to the north. Some of the guys were taking several run like steps to throw to the goal line 60 yds. Those throws were high floaters. Garcia was throwing tight spirals on a rope to the goal line. Then he, Garcia started throwing at the Allstate kicking net in the north end zone. Still at the 40 this is about a 74 yd throw. Three out of four attempts were right into the Allstate hands. Thats about 20 feet off the ground over the goal post. Kid must have a gun for sure. Those weren't lob passes either.

[JAYBEZ]

I was talking with a friend yesterday that told me that about an hour before the KY game several guys were on the field fooling around throwing the ball around. Garacia was one of them and he, being a pretty good fan and played FB at VMI, was noticing the techneque of Garcia and the tight spirals he was throwing. They were standing on the south end 40 throwing to the north. Some of the guys were taking several run like steps to throw to the goal line 60 yds. Those throws were high floaters. Garcia was throwing tight spirals on a rope to the goal line. Then he, Garcia started throwing at the Allstate kicking net in the north end zone. Still at the 40 this is about a 74 yd throw. Three out of four attempts were right into the Allstate hands. Thats about 20 feet off the ground over the goal post. Kid must have a gun for sure. Those weren't lob passes either.

Good to know, but I wouldn't expect him to have a greater working knowledge of the offense then waht Chris had this year.

[Cockholio]

Good to know, but I wouldn't expect him to have a greater working knowledge of the offense then waht Chris had this year.

Agreed. The one benefit that Garcia does have over Smelly is that Garcia is full throttle at practice running the scout team whereas Smelly had the injured heel last year and I believe his participation was limited in practice due to his pursuit of a med-redshirt.

[Spurticus]

I was talking with a friend yesterday that told me that about an hour before the KY game several guys were on the field fooling around throwing the ball around. Garacia was one of them and he, being a pretty good fan and played FB at VMI, was noticing the techneque of Garcia and the tight spirals he was throwing. They were standing on the south end 40 throwing to the north. Some of the guys were taking several run like steps to throw to the goal line 60 yds. Those throws were high floaters. Garcia was throwing tight spirals on a rope to the goal line. Then he, Garcia started throwing at the Allstate kicking net in the north end zone. Still at the 40 this is about a 74 yd throw. Three out of four attempts were right into the Allstate hands. Thats about 20 feet off the ground over the goal post. Kid must have a gun for sure. Those weren't lob passes either.

Todd Ellis threw a nice tight spiral and had an arm that strong when he played for USC too. . . . . . . . . .He still holds the record for interceptions in his career

[doccock]

I presume you mean a different starter and Heisman winner for three consecutive years. That would really be nice. Oh, you didn't say all will be. Instead, I guess you meant any of the three could win it next year, depending upon which one starts. Anyhow, we haven't had a Heisman winner since Todd Ellis, so I figure it's about time.

:woo:


First of all the comments were tongue in cheek, not meant to be taken seriously.
And Tood didn't sniff the Hesiman. He didn't even finish his senior year because of injury. George Rogers is our only Heisman winner.
doc

[therealUSC]

Thanks alot guys.

[Dr. Cock]

I presume you mean a different starter and Heisman winner for three consecutive years. That would really be nice. Oh, you didn't say all will be. Instead, I guess you meant any of the three could win it next year, depending upon which one starts. Anyhow, we haven't had a Heisman winner since Todd Ellis, so I figure it's about time.

:woo:

Todd was fairly good, but he was never close to the Heisman. Sterling and Robert, IMO, had a lot to do with how good he was. He also threw WAY too many interceptions (79).

If I had my pick on which Gamecock QB I'd want in my backfield, I'd take Tanneyhill.

[U-Dub Gamecock]

Todd was never the same QB after he got knocked out (literally) against Virginia Tech.. He was very good until then...

[FinchMcCrunkNasty]

I read in today's paper that Coach Spurrier said that no, he's not leaving SC because he's really looking forward to coaching Stephen Garcia. I hope he's as good as advertised.
dude....link? that is bull crap - he isn't leaving south carolina b/c he likes it here and wants to win an sec title, it has nothing to do with one single player

[Dr. Cock]

dude....link? that is bull crap - he isn't leaving south carolina b/c he likes it here and wants to win an sec title, it has nothing to do with one single player

He didn't say it just because of Stephen Garcia, but just because of the real young talent we have on the team now. He did say he was looking foward to coaching Garcia though.

With the way Spurrier has been talking about him the past few weeks, it sounds almost like it's his job to lose next year.

[Gamecock History]

dude....link? that is bull crap - he isn't leaving south carolina b/c he likes it here and wants to win an sec title, it has nothing to do with one single player

you need to start listening to the call in show, that is where Spurrier said it. Spurrier is definetely looking forward to seeing what Garcia can do on the field next year.

[Coondog]

I believe (sorry no link) that Spurrier said that he promised last years recruiting class that he would be here to coach them for there entire time at USC.

[gearhead302]

yeah I was at the call in show last night and he seemed super excited about Garcia!!! he said that he should be able to make some plays with his feet, he then looked at todd and smiled.

[roosterrizk1]

Spurrier is here to stay regardless what people want to say or speculate. The people that keep on talking about him leaving are the real idiots here.

[TalkingHead]

you need to start listening to the call in show, that is where Spurrier said it. Spurrier is definetely looking forward to seeing what Garcia can do on the field next year.

It definitely sounded to me like he thinks Garcia will be the qb next year.

[NastyNash]

man i cant believe that he has his own web site

[kozakid]

George Rogers is our only Heisman winner(1980). Todd was a candidate in '89 till the NC State cheap shot ended his career.
Pardon me for having been facetious about Ellis winning the Heisman. Yes, I seem to recall that he was having his best season -- better TD to INT ratio -- when he went down. Since the late 60's I have averaged going to less than one game a year, but I was at that particular game, and I seem to remember that he was indeed the victim of a cheap shot. I believe that Dickie DeMasi finished the season at QB.

:wink:

[kozakid]

He didn't say it just because of Stephen Garcia, but just because of the real young talent we have on the team now. He did say he was looking foward to coaching Garcia though.

With the way Spurrier has been talking about him the past few weeks, it sounds almost like it's his job to lose next year.
Yes, I am also of the opinion that coach Spurrier's recent comments indicate that he feels Garcia is head-and-shoulders above the rest of the QB crowd for '08. If Garcia stays healthy and out of trouble and plays as advertised, his presence could make a world of difference in next year's offense. I hope and pray we all get the chance to see what he can do at full speed.

:woo:

[kozakid]

Todd was fairly good, but he was never close to the Heisman. Sterling and Robert, IMO, had a lot to do with how good he was. He also threw WAY too many interceptions (79).

If I had my pick on which Gamecock QB I'd want in my backfield, I'd take Tanneyhill.
You're right on the mark. I'm sure Todd Ellis is thankful he had Sharpe and Brooks as receivers. I'll never forget the two beautiful TD catches Brooks had in a win against the Dawgs. The passes were definitely not on the money, but Brooks amazingly was somehow able to pull them down.

Pretty much all of my comments regarding Ellis have been tongue-in-cheek. He came to Carolina touted as the top-rated HS QB in the nation. He left Carolina after roughly three and one-half seasons having thrown 79 interceptions, although he did throw for an awful lot of yardage. I recall the heartbreaking losses to Nebraska and Miami, the 59-0 drubbing at the hands of Florida State, not to mention the bowl losses to Indiana and LSU which were anything but close. Actually, I believe the Gamecocks fielded their strongest ever team in 1987, and I'm disappointed they didn't finish the season with a better record.

By all accounts, Todd Ellis is a very nice and personable fellow. I must admit that as an announcer he is the biggest "gamer" I have ever heard, and there's certainly nothing wrong with that.

I agree that Taneyhill is clearly the most impressive and effective QB the Gamecocks have ever had.

:wink::woo::cocky:

[XLcock86]

What about Smelley?

[IHateOrange]

What about Smelley?

not exactly my opinion but smelley has not impressed a lot of people.

[cockybusiness2]

May the games begin. I love competition

[XLcock86]

not exactly my opinion but smelley has not impressed a lot of people. Think coach will start Smelley unless Garcia is just sick in the spring.

[cockman97]

Everyone knows the backup QB is the favorite player on a team.

[CoverTwo]

I can see this quarterback controversy dividing Gamecock Nation.

I look at it like this..If our offensive line improves and is able provide adequate protection for the QB, then Chris Smelley is going to be the guy based on experience..He is the ideal Spurrier QB and already has his feet wet, he just needs to improve in reading defenses..Once the game starts to "slow down" (as most QB's like to say) then he is going to be a great one.

But on the other hand, if our o-line continues to struggle for the 4th straight season then Garcia needs to be back there because he can provide mobility like Syvelle Newton...only problem will be that we are going to have to go through some growing pains because he isnt as polished of a passer as Smelley is.

[IHateOrange]

I would love to see smelley and Garcia used like Periloux and Flynn were at LSU this past year. I like Periloux because yeah he ran the ball but could throw on you too. It kept the D guessing what was going to happen. You can never have too many weapons.

[cockfight21]

I hope he uses them all.

[bigmuthafooka]

I can see this quarterback controversy dividing Gamecock Nation.

I look at it like this..If our offensive line improves and is able provide adequate protection for the QB, then Chris Smelley is going to be the guy based on experience..He is the ideal Spurrier QB and already has his feet wet, he just needs to improve in reading defenses..Once the game starts to "slow down" (as most QB's like to say) then he is going to be a great one.

But on the other hand, if our o-line continues to struggle for the 4th straight season then Garcia needs to be back there because he can provide mobility like Syvelle Newton...only problem will be that we are going to have to go through some growing pains because he isnt as polished of a passer as Smelley is.

well if it does, im on the Garcia side, even if we have a offensive line that is improved, i would rather have a QB tht can make plays with his feet and arm, i was always a big Newton fan cuz he could do that

[schouse13]

not exactly my opinion but smelley has not impressed a lot of people.

Agreed, that kid needs to learn there's more than one receiver on the field.

Garcia brings that Taneyhill type attitude and confidence. God, we could use some of that around the program.

[KCSuge]

We need Garcia if he run like he is being touted he can. We need a guy who can make something happen with his feet if the line breaks down. Smelley has decent mobility but Garcia is known for that and of course the coaches have been saying he is throwing the ball where it needs to be. Garcia starts. Smelley a solid, solid back-up. That's the way I see it.

[JBC1222]

If I had known that we were going to finish this season 6-6 I wouldve said play Garcia this year. He has a cannon for an arm and can run around enough. UGA stuck Stafford out there last year and struggled last year and early this year, but they are one of the hottest teams in college right now and it because Stafford has started to click. I dont really have a favorite as far as Smelley or Garcia, which ever one gives us the best chance of winning next year is who I want in there. But it appears that Smelley's arm is not as strong as Garcia's. It wasnt as strong as Blake's. Whatever the case QB isnt really a position Im all that concerned with next year.

[IHateOrange]

Agreed, that kid needs to learn there's more than one receiver on the field.

Garcia brings that Taneyhill type attitude and confidence. God, we could use some of that around the program.

Yeah I watched him throw into too many double coverages for my taste. Blake kinda got over his one receiver fascination so hopefully he can also.

[WeHailTheeCarolina]

I think Spurrier may go with a two QB system if one is not overly impressive. Maybe like a Leak/Tebow thing.. I don't really want to use Garcia as a dang fullback though. This should be a great competition in the spring....

[garnet4ever]

Agreed, that kid needs to learn there's more than one receiver on the field.

Garcia brings that Taneyhill type attitude and confidence. God, we could use some of that around the program.


That is what we need exactly, a cocky confident QB that has something to prove ... attitude is a big part of the game ...

[IHateOrange]

I think Spurrier may go with a two QB system if one is not overly impressive. Maybe like a Leak/Tebow thing.. I don't really want to use Garcia as a dang fullback though. This should be a great competition in the spring....

Heck if we have Tebow like results I dont care if he gets the snap and runs it every play.

[YouCanNeverTell]

If SOS had thought anyone other than Garcia would be the starter next year I think we would have seen alot less Blake toward the end of our season. After the loss to Vandy and Tenn our SEC shots were done. If coach thought Smelley the future he would have started him the remainder of the season to continue to get him some experience.

[WeHailTheeCarolina]

Heck if we have Tebow like results I dont care if he gets the snap and runs it every play.

Well, I'm all for that! Haha I just think Tebow is lucky to have not gotten seriously injured yet. I don't want Garcia running every down and tearing an ACL or something.

[foezopen]

I think seeing Teblow in action from the sideline during the UF game-Spurrier saw first hand what this kinda QB can do......Garcia will be a TEBLOW like QB....He came to USC @ 6'2" 212 LBS and it looks as if he has put on some weight(muscle) since he has been here...Tebow is currently 6'3" 235 and is unreal.......But IMO Garcia is faster more elusive and has a wayyyyy better arm.......I think the UF game put Garcia in the lead for QB next year....I even saw a smirk or 2 from Spurrier but not like his usual smirk-it was sorta like "WE GOT ONE OF THEM TO ,MEYER" kind of smirk......I do like Smelley but Garcia type QB is the wave of the future in gollege football.......QB contraversy can be a good thing if both are GOOD QBs!!!!

[ConwayGamecock]

I think Smelley will be our starter next season. He was just a RS Frosh this season, after all: Blake's first season in '05 was as a RS Soph. Smelley finished 4-2 as a starter, and finished with a better efficiency rating than Mitchell. He was also at the helm in two of our most complete performances against MSU and UK. It was a shame that he didn't have Lecorn coming into his own during the time he was starting.

Garcia may ultimately take over the reins, but unless he turns out to be a super-stud QB, I doubt he will be able to take over the offense right away with the first game of the season. Calling audibles will be a big issue (as it was with Chris this season), and while Garcia is a mobile QB, he's not like Syvelle was. He's a little more mobile than Smelley, but still a passing QB, IMO.....

[McNasty]

i hope we do NOT run a two QB system. i've never liked it.

and yes, i'm sure there will be a huge contraversy, and there should be. but only through the spring. smelley didn't impress me like i was expecting this year. he did well until pressure from the coaches was put on him (which i still dont agree with but hey, it happened).

if garcia is he best QB we have in the spring and stays that good and out of trouble, start him. i'd like to see him. i'd like to see a QB that can escape and make big plays from it.

[IHateOrange]

I think Smelley will be our starter next season. He was just a RS Frosh this season, after all: Blake's first season in '05 was as a RS Soph. Smelley finished 4-2 as a starter, and finished with a better efficiency rating than Mitchell. He was also at the helm in two of our most complete performances against MSU and UK. It was a shame that he didn't have Lecorn coming into his own during the time he was starting.

Garcia may ultimately take over the reins, but unless he turns out to be a super-stud QB, I doubt he will be able to take over the offense right away with the first game of the season. Calling audibles will be a big issue (as it was with Chris this season), and while Garcia is a mobile QB, he's not like Syvelle was. He's a little more mobile than Smelley, but still a passing QB, IMO.....

2 teams that are not that good

[U-Dub Gamecock]

Smelley has 2 glaring problems...

(1) Lack of arm strength..

(2) Locks in on one receiver.. Vandy picked up on that.. and it showed when Smelley was in there..

If Garcia is anything close to what people are saying.. he should be starting from day 1 in 2008

[jaytda4th]

i hear all this "if garcia is as advertised" and.. "what everyone is saying"..

what exactly is everyone saying about garcia. I think all we know is he's decently quick for a QB and that he has a strong arm, and is hopefully more mature and over his problems he had earlier.

So what is everyone saying that is so great about garcia?

[Goofyboy]

If Garcia busts his butt and brain until next fall, he can be just the difference needed. He is mobile, but not shifty like Syvelle. He keeps looking downfield while moving to space, and he seems pretty strong. He will not be in a rush to get the ball out of his hands, and may well be able to check down. I also think he can throw short/medium while moving (at least on HS film), and is not afraid to set before throwing long even if pressured. Much of this was lacking when needed this year.

[reddot8481]

From Spring practice I remember hearing of how Garcia made the long passes. Smelley has a cannon two but has a tendancy to stay in the pocket too long and this is mainly why he has to create with his feet. Garcia came in touted as a duel threat QB, but has really shown in practice that he can throw the ball better than most thought. His mobility while not VYesque is good enough to create plays when need be. I think if he has a big spring then he will be hard not to play him. But as is the truth with every position on Spurrier's teams, you have to earn your playing time.

[bigmuthafooka]

cuz Garcia is Superman!
http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/5207/sghh9.png (http://imageshack.us)
http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/5207/sghh9.cf0fa28ee8.jpg (http://g.imageshack.us/g.php?h=512&i=sghh9.png)

[ConwayGamecock]

2 teams that are not that good

both teams are bowl teams. Both of them have as many wins against ranked teams as we do. One of them has beaten a #1 ranked team that is playing for our conference championship, and took the team that will oppose the first team for our conference championship to 4 OT's before losing. They are not that bad, and are better than us. Again, Smelley is a RS freshman.....he's had a better season than Matt Stafford had his freshman season (albeit true freshman), and Stafford is now the QB for possibly the best team in the SEC....

[hayesnumber76]

Everyone knows the backup QB is the favorite player on a team.:lol::lol: :rotfl: :lol: LOL classic! :) good one!

[hayesnumber76]

This is how I figure who should start at QB... if you look at Florida, and there current QB, he is a rusher, and a passer... and we have the same threat in Garcia... and I can guarantee you that he would love nothing more than to go to The Swamp and shut the Gayturds down... with that in mind, I would rather have someone who is both mobile and can throw the long ball at QB, and Garcia gives us that option the best... nothing against smelley... great arm, great guy, great legs, and arm... but hes not a double edge sword like Garcia... I would put my money on Garcia to get the nod to start... on the other hand... Smelley already have game experience... so that may play in his favor... I dont know... we shall see nation...

[IHateOrange]

both teams are bowl teams. Both of them have as many wins against ranked teams as we do. One of them has beaten a #1 ranked team that is playing for our conference championship, and took the team that will oppose the first team for our conference championship to 4 OT's before losing. They are not that bad, and are better than us. Again, Smelley is a RS freshman.....he's had a better season than Matt Stafford had his freshman season (albeit true freshman), and Stafford is now the QB for possibly the best team in the SEC....
1. Making a bowl is not what it used to be. Hellen Keller School of the Deaf and Blind is in bowl consideration.

2. We are not that good. I love USC to death but out football team is young and not great right now.

3. Better than us? Didn't we beat them?

[Gamecockfanatic4]

I think there will be a huge battle in the spring and probably continue in the fall for the QB slot, I see Smelley coming out but both QB's will play at some point next season I don't think there should be a doubt about that

[Gamecockfanatic4]

1. Making a bowl is not what it used to be. Hellen Keller School of the Deaf and Blind is in bowl consideration.

2. We are not that good. I love USC to death but out football team is yound and not great right now.

3. Better than us? Didn't we beat them?
umm Yes, but they are 10-2 on their way to a BCS bowl and we are 6-6 just hoping to get into a bowl pretty big difference in how the rest of the season went for both teams

[gamecockfinatic2007]

i think that smelley will only hold the advantage of 2 years in the system.
garcia has the strongest arm on the team from what ive heard.and we all know how shifty and ellusive he can be.i agree it will be a good battle in spring but garcia shoudl start the first game of the season.

[gwright]

The way I look at it Smelley has had time to become the QB that we need and hasn't really shown as much as some have expected. Garcia was a highly touted recruit so he most definitely has the talent to show us we just need to wait and see if it shows ON the field.

[gamecockfinatic2007]

And also, other than the competition that chris has seen in college there was a big difference in the high schools the two of them played.

How much better is garcia prepared than chris because of that?

[87Cock09]

Smelley has 2 glaring problems...

(1) Lack of arm strength..

(2) Locks in on one receiver.. Vandy picked up on that.. and it showed when Smelley was in there..

If Garcia is anything close to what people are saying.. he should be starting from day 1 in 2008

I completely agree. I've seen too many floaters into double and triple coverage to put much faith in Smelley being the guy. I have yet to see him look off a DB. Who knows about Garcia though? He might lock onto one WR also, we will see. But I agree it shouldn't be difficult for him to win the job. We know for sure he has a much stronger arm than Smelley.

[ConwayGamecock]

1. Making a bowl is not what it used to be. Hellen Keller School of the Deaf and Blind is in bowl consideration.

2. We are not that good. I love USC to death but out football team is yound and not great right now.

3. Better than us? Didn't we beat them?

1. Perhaps, if we are talking about the 80's on back, but for the time period since USC has been in the SEC, making a bowl is actually pretty much the same as it has been: they are going, we most likely are not. As for the Hellen Keller School of the Deaf and Blind: please provide a link.

2. Doesn't matter how good a team we are, MSU and UK has had better seasons than we've had, and don't forget Smelley also played the best half (at the time) of USC offense at QB against LSU, the #2 team in the nation. You shouldn't just broadly dismiss his effort as meaningless....

3. Yes....with Smelley at QB. Are you now debating against yourself, or do you still wish to debate with me? You're stealing my lines now......

[kozakid]

I think Smelley will be our starter next season. He was just a RS Frosh this season, after all: Blake's first season in '05 was as a RS Soph. Smelley finished 4-2 as a starter, and finished with a better efficiency rating than Mitchell. He was also at the helm in two of our most complete performances against MSU and UK. It was a shame that he didn't have Lecorn coming into his own during the time he was starting.

Garcia may ultimately take over the reins, but unless he turns out to be a super-stud QB, I doubt he will be able to take over the offense right away with the first game of the season. Calling audibles will be a big issue (as it was with Chris this season), and while Garcia is a mobile QB, he's not like Syvelle was. He's a little more mobile than Smelley, but still a passing QB, IMO.....

GARCIA. Hands down. No contest. Case closed. As long as he stays healthy and out of trouble. He's got it all: the size, the mobility, the arm, the brains, and the bravado. What else is there? It wouldn't make sense to start anyone else. None of the others come close to matching his admirable attributes. And another thing. The last thing any team needs is a quarterback as their leading rusher. That's only asking for trouble. Mr. Tebow had better keep saying his prayers. For Pete's sake, leave the running game to the running backs! I figure Garcia's game will be similar to that of, say, Staubach and Montana, two of the smartest and most effective QB's of all time.

(I know. I know. I know. He'll need an offensive line. Well, don't worry about that. They'll play better with Garcia at QB. Besides, his heady play will help make up for our OL's shortcomings, whatever they be. As long as he's available and able to play, he's gonna be that good. Trust me. As Al Jolson once so famously said, "You ain't seen nothin' yet!")

:woo:

P.S. I apologize to all who are too young to remember Staubach, Montana, and Jolson.

[ConwayGamecock]

GARCIA. Hands down. No contest. Case closed. As long as he stays healthy and out of trouble. He's got it all: the size, the mobility, the arm, the brains, and the bravado. What else is there? It wouldn't make sense to start anyone else. None of the others come close to matching his admirable attributes. And another thing. The last thing any team needs is a quarterback as their leading rusher. That's only asking for trouble. Mr. Tebow had better keep saying his prayers. For Pete's sake, leave the running game to the running backs! I figure Garcia's game will be similar to that of, say, Staubach and Montana, two of the smartest and most effective QB's of all time.

(I know. I know. I know. He'll need an offensive line. Well, don't worry about that. They'll play better with Garcia at QB. Besides, his heady play will help make up for our OL's shortcomings, whatever they be. As long as he's available and able to play, he's gonna be that good. Trust me. As Al Jolson once so famously said, "You ain't seen nothin' yet!")

:woo:

P.S. I apologize to all who are too young to remember Staubach, Montana, and Jolson.

Isn't it wonderfully divine to have such a sure-bet, can't miss All-American playing QB for us next season?? I seem to recall these exact same assurances of college football glory being made here for Smelley last season. Where is the NC game being played for '08?? I want to get in my ticket orders first for the prime seats.......

[BuCockyfan]

I think seeing Teblow in action from the sideline during the UF game-Spurrier saw first hand what this kinda QB can do......Garcia will be a TEBLOW like QB....He came to USC @ 6'2" 212 LBS and it looks as if he has put on some weight(muscle) since he has been here...Tebow is currently 6'3" 235 and is unreal.......But IMO Garcia is faster more elusive and has a wayyyyy better arm.......I think the UF game put Garcia in the lead for QB next year....I even saw a smirk or 2 from Spurrier but not like his usual smirk-it was sorta like "WE GOT ONE OF THEM TO ,MEYER" kind of smirk......I do like Smelley but Garcia type QB is the wave of the future in gollege football.......QB contraversy can be a good thing if both are GOOD QBs!!!!

WOW, are you really comparing Tebow to Garcia? Just because you can run somewhat, doesn't make you as good as Tim. Tebow is a once in a generation player, who was one of the most hyped recruits in recent memory. Garcia wasn't even the best qb in the Tampa area his senior year.

This is our problem. Some fans get these REDICULOUSLY high expectations, and are completely bewildered when we don't live up to them.

[IHateOrange]

1. Perhaps, if we are talking about the 80's on back, but for the time period since USC has been in the SEC, making a bowl is actually pretty much the same as it has been: they are going, we most likely are not. As for the Hellen Keller School of the Deaf and Blind: please provide a link.

2. Doesn't matter how good a team we are, MSU and UK has had better seasons than we've had, and don't forget Smelley also played the best half (at the time) of USC offense at QB against LSU, the #2 team in the nation. You shouldn't just broadly dismiss his effort as meaningless....

3. Yes....with Smelley at QB. Are you now debating against yourself, or do you still wish to debate with me? You're stealing my lines now......

There are A LOT more bowls now than there were in the 80's and because of that it is A LOT easier to make one. Making a bowl game used to mean a lot more than it does now. The best half you speak of is after it stopped raining, after LSU had a good lead, and after they took several starters out. We would of beaten Kentucky with Blake at qb. It would not of mattered. Their D was not going to stop us period.

[IHateOrange]

Isn't it wonderfully divine to have such a sure-bet, can't miss All-American playing QB for us next season?? I seem to recall these exact same assurances of college football glory being made here for Smelley last season. Where is the NC game being played for '08?? I want to get in my ticket orders first for the prime seats.......
Nobody thought Smelley was going to be a god. A good QB who could start over Blake maybe. (but we see how that turned out) A lot of people hated Blake for off the field actions more than anything and WANTED to create Smelley's image as our savior.

Garcia is a lot more highly touted QB from Highschool than Smelley. That is why there is more talk around him.

[uscglfrcpc]

I just want to see Garcia play, run and throw for 20 TDs, teblow who?

[CountryLivNcock]

Agreed, that kid needs to learn there's more than one receiver on the field.

Garcia brings that Taneyhill type attitude and confidence. God, we could use some of that around the program.

You have to remember there wasn't really but one to work with when he was playing no one had really stepped up and well no one really definately has yet, But more so than when he was taking the snaps. We just really need a WR that can go up in the air and come down with the ball like Rice could. That would have made a world of difference.

I do agree with the lofting though Smelley does put too much air under some of his passes. Mitchell may not be 100% dependable but he can definately throw a pass where it needs to be.

[crowcutta]

i'd at least have to see garcia in action for our team before i crown him the starter, at least see him in the spring game. i'm sure it will be a spirited competition for the starting job

[swampthing]

Wheres Beecher?

[bigmuthafooka]

Wheres Beecher?

he will be the starting field goal holder

[Darth Visor]

whoever spurrier puts out there is who i'll want to play......but i think that spurrier realizes that it is such an advantage in college football today to have a QB who can throw AND run......so just b/c of that i think garcia, if as good as advertised, will be starting by the first game......but who knows haha.....

GO COCKS!

[B Blackwell]

Honestly guys, I am not on either's side....for god sake, Garcia hasn't even touched the ball in a game other than warming up....ON THE OTHER HAND, You can tell the Garcia wants on the field BADLY. He said it the day he signed with us, that he intended to play this year. He knows the QB position is up in the air next year for anyone to grab. Granted Chris played very well this year all things considered, but in my opinion i think Garcia' fire to get on the field and fire to lead a team that could really do some good things next year with all the youth that saw exstensive action this year plus getting Jasper, Pepper, Captain back will put him on the field. From other threads about practices & such, i have seen people say that Garcia tears it up in practice, has a rocket of an arm (Which we need, b/c Smelley seems to lack that on the out and corner routes) can run very well, which we all know what that can do to a team. All I am saying is we need someone at QB against NC STATE ESPN THURSDAY NIGHT, 1ST GAME OF THE FOOTBALL SEASON WHO WANTS TO BE IN THERE, AND WHO TRULLY LEAD THE TEAM!!!!!!!

[doccock]

From Spring practice I remember hearing of how Garcia made the long passes. Smelley has a cannon two but has a tendancy to stay in the pocket too long and this is mainly why he has to create with his feet. Garcia came in touted as a duel threat QB, but has really shown in practice that he can throw the ball better than most thought. His mobility while not VYesque is good enough to create plays when need be. I think if he has a big spring then he will be hard not to play him. But as is the truth with every position on Spurrier's teams, you have to earn your playing time.
Garcia was suspended for spring practice.
doc

[CoverTwo]

Smelley's arm strength is underrated..His arm is about as good as Blake's and he possesses a quicker release..he just puts WAY too much touch on his passes, thats why his passes seem to be floated..I'm also willing to bet that his throwing shoulder was still giving him problems during the season.

[Freehawk]

Because nothing says "highlight reel" like reddish highlights in one's hair

[Coondog]

IMO the spread offense works best with a mobile QB. Smelly has good pocket presence and can move around well in the pocket but he's not much of a scrambler. If Garcia is everything that I think he is (yea, I know all he has done is practice with the scout team but he has impressed his teammates from what I have read) he will take the starting job and not look back. From what I have seen he has the fire and intensity we need at QB to lead this team. I like Smelly and I think he is a good QB, but I think Garcia has the tools to be a great one.

[RbrewDawg]

go to youtube and google him you will see why he will start, i was close at the clemsux game and man he is a monster. his thighs are huge!!

[hellraiser24]

What about Smelley?

because garcia has gotten bigger, stronger, and faster this season. he still has the strongest arm and fastest feet at the qb position. also, he has said so himself that he is tearing it up against the first team d. i like him becasue he is confident and a little cocky, so for those reasons i don't see him telling coach he was scared on the field like smelly did in the ut game

[FeartheSpur]

have you seen him in person????he is a beast!!

[ertman420]

because garcia has gotten bigger, stronger, and faster this season. he still has the strongest arm and fastest feet at the qb position. also, he has said so himself that he is tearing it up against the first team d. i like him becasue he is confident and a little cocky, so for those reasons i don't see him telling coach he was scared on the field like smelly did in the ut game

Admittedly, this might just be crazy BS speculation...

But a good friend said he has witnessed SG throwing the ball (almost) equally well with both hands, and that supposedly the kid is a freak of an athlete.

Me personally, I like his attitude. Our team has been struggling the past few years, and I think it's at least partially due to the attitude of our biggest team leader, i.e. the QB (Mitchell). Spurrier said it over and over throughout Mitchell's career 'If I could just get him mad...' SG won't accept mediocrity of lack of effort. He will push each and every one of our players to be their best. Smelly is a great QB, and I don't want to put him down in any way, but he simply doesn't compare to the talent, fire and attitude that SG will bring to this team next year.

Garcia for Heisman... am I the first one to say it? HA!

[foezopen]

WOW, are you really comparing Tebow to Garcia? Just because you can run somewhat, doesn't make you as good as Tim. Tebow is a once in a generation player, who was one of the most hyped recruits in recent memory. Garcia wasn't even the best qb in the Tampa area his senior year.

This is our problem. Some fans get these REDICULOUSLY high expectations, and are completely bewildered when we don't live up to them.


Dude I am so sorry to have high expectations....this is not what we are suppose to have....and I my friend am not bewildered about anything !! Heres what I have put together as far as stats

TEBOW-
6"3" 217LBS out of High School
Forty - 4.69


Career High School Stats (SO,JR,SR)

Rushing -
533 attempts for 3,186 yds - 5.97 yds per carry - 21 avg TDs per year

Passing-
612 of 973 - 63.16 % - 3,274 yds per yr avg - 31.66 TDs per yr avg - 6 int per yr avg




GARCIA -
6' 2" 202 LBS. (which now is around 220lbs)
FORTY- 4.65

Career High School Stats (SO,JR,SR)


Rushing -
259 attempts for 1,329 yds. - 5.13 avg ypc - 5.66 avg TDs per year

Passing -
506 of 821 - 61.63 % - 2,693 yds per yr avg - 27.66 avg TDs per yr - 7.66 int per yr avg



Other than the rushing TDs per year (in which Tebow had 274 more carries), I would say outta High School that there numbers were pretty comparible!!!!! Didnt say he was Tebow or would be !! But a Tebow Type QB HE CAN BE !!!.....

[BuCockyfan]

There are kids every year that come out of high school that are as big as Tebow or have similar stats. But if Garcia had the talent that Tebow had, he wouldn't have RS this year. Like I said, it's likely we'll never see another qb like Tebow. We shouldn't compare him to Tebow because it creates false expectations.

All you need to do is look back to SOS claiming we were making a run at the SEC title, and how disappointed we are now. Before the season, people were saying how Culliver would have a Percy Harvin role and have the same effect as him this year. Look how that turned out...

[kickerspl20]

X2

[kozakid]

Isn't it wonderfully divine to have such a sure-bet, can't miss All-American playing QB for us next season?? I seem to recall these exact same assurances of college football glory being made here for Smelley last season. Where is the NC game being played for '08?? I want to get in my ticket orders first for the prime seats.......
I can assure you that those assurances of glory for Chris Smelley were not offered by me! As Coach Spurrier might say,"Smelley is what he is." Apparently he's a fine fellow and a capable quarterback; however, when it comes to style, demeanor, and attitude, I'd much rather take my chances with Stephen Garcia.

:woo:

[kozakid]

Dude I am so sorry to have high expectations....this is not what we are suppose to have....and I my friend am not bewildered about anything !! Heres what I have put together as far as stats

TEBOW-
6"3" 217LBS out of High School
Forty - 4.69


Career High School Stats (SO,JR,SR)

Rushing -
533 attempts for 3,186 yds - 5.97 yds per carry - 21 avg TDs per year

Passing-
612 of 973 - 63.16 % - 3,274 yds per yr avg - 31.66 TDs per yr avg - 6 int per yr avg




GARCIA -
6' 2" 202 LBS. (which now is around 220lbs)
FORTY- 4.65

Career High School Stats (SO,JR,SR)


Rushing -
259 attempts for 1,329 yds. - 5.13 avg ypc - 5.66 avg TDs per year

Passing -
506 of 821 - 61.63 % - 2,693 yds per yr avg - 27.66 avg TDs per yr - 7.66 int per yr avg



Other than the rushing TDs per year (in which Tebow had 274 more carries), I would say outta High School that there numbers were pretty comparible!!!!! Didnt say he was Tebow or would be !! But a Tebow Type QB HE CAN BE !!!.....
I see Garcia as "Tebow Lite." Tebow with only half the carries.

:lol:

[JAYBEZ]

Agreed, that kid needs to learn there's more than one receiver on the field.

Garcia brings that Taneyhill type attitude and confidence. God, we could use some of that around the program.

Chris is a Freshman... do you think Garcia is going to have a greater awareness of where the receivers are?

I like Garcia, but you can't expect him to step in an know more about the offense then what Chris knew this year.

[CoverTwo]

They way our fan base is hyping up Garcia, you would think he is going to come out next season and throw for 20+ TDs and rush for 20+ TDs

What is going to happen when he goes out and tosses a couple INTs, are yall going to be the ones calling for his head the first chance you get too?

[rock23aj]

They way our fan base is hyping up Garcia, you would think he is going to come out next season and throw for 20+ TDs and rush for 20+ TDs

What is going to happen when he goes out and tosses a couple INTs, are yall going to be the ones calling for his head the first chance you get too?


You mean like everyone called for Blake's head? Spurrier himself said he may have messed up by not sticking with Blake the WHOLE year.

[Dr. Cock]

The one thing I am not understanding is why everyone is jumping all over Smelley as not being a good QB. Ok, he wasn't wonderful this season, but he was a FRESHMAN! Yeah, he's going to lock onto WRs and make some other mistakes. He had very little gametime experience coming into this season and performed better than what you would expect for a Freshman.

It's foolish to label Smelley's current faults as something he will exhibit his entire career. I would love to see Garcia come in and light the world on fire next year as much as anyone, and he is easily the most talanted QB on our roster. But, more than likely, he'll be a role-playing and change-of-pace QB unless our OL struggles again.

Ultimately, I don't care if Smelley, Garcia, Beecher, or even Brindise is our starting QB. Winning is the ultimate goal. But, in this situation, experience is defining factor, and Chris Smelley will be our starting QB in 2008. And honestly, I think a lot of people are going to be surprised with him in a good way.

[JAYBEZ]

The way I look at it Smelley has had time to become the QB that we need and hasn't really shown as much as some have expected. Garcia was a highly touted recruit so he most definitely has the talent to show us we just need to wait and see if it shows ON the field.

LOL! Man you are quick to give up on players. RS freshman that played in 4 games and you think he has had plenty of time to develope.

I think some people have trouble grasping reality at times...

[cockhound#]

What do you mean everyone?

[bhall]

Did you watch Chris Smelley play this year? That's why Garcia will be the starter.

[ConwayGamecock]

There are A LOT more bowls now than there were in the 80's and because of that it is A LOT easier to make one. Making a bowl game used to mean a lot more than it does now.1. Perhaps, if we are talking about the 80's on back, but for the time period since USC has been in the SEC, making a bowl is actually pretty much the same as it has been: they are going, we most likely are not.
You are excellent at submitting counterpoints. :lol:

Nobody thought Smelley was going to be a god. A good QB who could start over Blake maybe. (but we see how that turned out) A lot of people hated Blake for off the field actions more than anything and WANTED to create Smelley's image as our savior.

Garcia is a lot more highly touted QB from Highschool than Smelley. That is why there is more talk around him.
If we are thinking that Garcia is a god, then we are in heaps of trouble next season. Remember what the question of this thread is about: Garcia starting next season. Garcia may very quickly become easily the best choice as our QB as the season progresses, definitely in '09. But to start next season, and possibly for the entire season, I expect to see Smelley start simply because he has EARNED it, and Garcia has not....

[CoverTwo]

I think the truth is no one can forsee what this guy is going to do..Maybe he ends up being great and the savior of our program, or just maybe he ends up being a bust..I dont put a lot of stock in a player "looking great" while running scout team..and I dont buy in just physical attributes..Hell, Dondrial Pinkins supposidly had all the physical tools but he could not read a defense to save his life..Fact is, we need to be humble with Garcia and BE PATIENT..I think the fan base is just too impatient with our program right now, and dont realize that it is going to be a couple more years before Spurrier has us where we need to be...I think with Garcia we need to keep our expectations relatively low because if we as a fan base expect this kid to come out at the gate and throw for 3,000+ yards 20+Td's in his first season under center then a lot of Gamecocks are going to be (even more) disappointed...There are going to be some growing pains..and i dont think a lot of people recognize that.

[foezopen]

I see Garcia as "Tebow Lite." Tebow with only half the carries.

:lol:


Now thats funny !!! lol

PTS 2 YA

[CoverTwo]

Did you watch Chris Smelley play this year? That's why Garcia will be the starter.

Yes, I watched Chris Smelley go 4-2 as a starter with a win over a Top 10 team on national tv..I saw him outplay a potential (at the time) Heisman candidate..I'm sure a lot of teams with RS Fresh QB's cant be able to say that...Yeah, he had his moments where he struggled, but this kid had times where he was REALLY REALLY good..and I think alot of people have forgot that..Which leads me to the point, do you think Garcia is going to come out and not have problems that Smelley had? I expect the same up & down performance if he is under center.

[kozakid]

Hey! What's all this fuss about Tim Tebow? Coach Lou was ahead of the game because we had monsters Pinkins and Jenkins lined up at the QB postion for a couple of years. They were bigger and stronger -- and certainly more "athletic" -- than Mr. Tebow. How come they didn't get the same results? Oh, I know. It's because we didn't have an OL back then either. Heck, we probably didn't even have a DL!

I'll never forget how overawed Coach Lou was by Jenkins' athletic prowess, so much so that he simply had to put him at the quarterback position. The rest is history.

2002
Jenkins
Rushing 160 att 655 yds
Passing 180 att 100 comp (55.6%) 1,334 yds 7 TD


2003
Pinkins
Rushing 95 att 254 yds
Passing 322 att 162 comp (50.3%) 2,127 yds 10 TD

(I don't know why these so-called "football encyclopedias" never seem to include a quarterback's interception totals. The TD/INT ratio is a pretty reliable indicator of a QB's effectiveness.)

:woo::woo::woo:

[Gamecock_Aholic]

I definately think our o-line is the biggest problem. if we can get some protection, spurrier can make any QB good. they just need a little time in the pocket.

[JAYBEZ]

Where is ole Jaydogg? TOMMY BEECHER FOR HEISMAN. (someone had to fill his place)

[kozakid]

They way our fan base is hyping up Garcia, you would think he is going to come out next season and throw for 20+ TDs and rush for 20+ TDs

What is going to happen when he goes out and tosses a couple INTs, are yall going to be the ones calling for his head the first chance you get too?
No. If he doesn't throw an INT every now and then, then he's not human.

By the way, did you notice the phenomenal TD/INT ration of the U. of San Diego QB this season? In case you haven't, check this out!

Josh Johnson, San Diego, Quarterback, 6-3, 205, Senior, Oakland, Ca. Johnson capped off an incredible career with 43 touchdown passes and one interception in his final year. He threw for 2,988 yards and ranked first in passing efficiency (198.3) and total offense (371.4) as he completed 206- of-301 passes (68.4%). His average of 298.8 yards per game ranked fourth in FCS, and he was seventh in the sub-division in passing yards. But Johnson wasn't just a passer. He also finished the season ranked 68th nationally in rushing (72.6 yards per game) with 726 yards on 101 carries (7.2 per carry) and two TDs. During Johnson's three years as a starter, San Diego went 31-4, winning two outright Pioneer Football League titles and two Sports Network Cups as the best Mid-Major team in FCS. Johnson took the Toreros to a share of the PFL title again this season. He finished his career with 9,699 yards passing (21st all-time in FCS), 113 touchdowns (fifth all- time) and just 15 interceptions, to go along with 1,864 rushing yards and 19 TDs. Johnson was also responsible for 133 touchdowns and 11,563 yards of total offense, with the latter figure ranking 10th all-time in FCS history. He finished sixth in the 2006 Payton Award balloting and was named an All-American after throwing for 3,320 yards and 34 TDs. Johnson, who has accepted an invitation to play in the 2008 East-West Shrine Bowl, is the all-time FCS career leader in passing efficiency (176.68), and is second in active career touchdown passes with 113.

[Dr. Cock]

Well, most Gamecock fans know how Pinkins "shocked" the SEC.

But seriously, the difference between Tebow and those 2 is that Tebow is a MUCH, MUCH, MUCH better passer. Dondrial didn't even grab the laces of the football. The OL was actually one of our stronger points in 2002. If either of those guys had the passing ability of at least, let's say, Phil Petty, they would have been 100x better. But bad decision making and accuracy won't cut it in the SEC.

[kozakid]

Chris is a Freshman... do you think Garcia is going to have a greater awareness of where the receivers are?

I like Garcia, but you can't expect him to step in an know more about the offense then what Chris knew this year.
(1) I hope so.

(2) Yes.

[JAYBEZ]

Well, most Gamecock fans know how Pinkins "shocked" the SEC.

But seriously, the difference between Tebow and those 2 is that Tebow is a MUCH, MUCH, MUCH better passer. Dondrial didn't even grab the laces of the football. The OL was actually one of our stronger points in 2002. If either of those guys had the passing ability of at least, let's say, Phil Petty, they would have been 100x better. But bad decision making and accuracy won't cut it in the SEC.

Phil petty threw shotputs...

[Visormaniac]

One thing is for sure. Each QB will get a chance to show what he can do.
May the best man win!

[kozakid]

The one thing I am not understanding is why everyone is jumping all over Smelley as not being a good QB. Ok, he wasn't wonderful this season, but he was a FRESHMAN! Yeah, he's going to lock onto WRs and make some other mistakes. He had very little gametime experience coming into this season and performed better than what you would expect for a Freshman.

It's foolish to label Smelley's current faults as something he will exhibit his entire career. I would love to see Garcia come in and light the world on fire next year as much as anyone, and he is easily the most talanted QB on our roster. But, more than likely, he'll be a role-playing and change-of-pace QB unless our OL struggles again.

Ultimately, I don't care if Smelley, Garcia, Beecher, or even Brindise is our starting QB. Winning is the ultimate goal. But, in this situation, experience is defining factor, and Chris Smelley will be our starting QB in 2008. And honestly, I think a lot of people are going to be surprised with him in a good way.

If Smelley beats out Garcia head-to-head next year that'll mean he's made vast improvement during the off-season. You just may be right. I'd be happy with at least two premium QB's in 08.

:clap:

[Dr. Cock]

Phil petty threw shotputs...

Yeah, he didn't have much arm-strength, but he was definately one of the best decision makers we have had in years, and had a fairly accurate touch in the ball. He kept it out of trouble.

Jenkins and Pinkins, OTOH, could chunk the football 60 to 70 yards with little effort, but their touch was laughable and they couldn't hit an SUV from 20 yards out. If you gave either one of them better decision making and accuracy, then they would have been two totally different QBs. That's what made them inefficient.

[ConwayGamecock]

Yes, I watched Chris Smelley go 4-2 as a starter with a win over a Top 10 team on national tv..I saw him outplay a potential (at the time) Heisman candidate..I'm sure a lot of teams with RS Fresh QB's cant be able to say that...Yeah, he had his moments where he struggled, but this kid had times where he was REALLY REALLY good..and I think alot of people have forgot that..Which leads me to the point, do you think Garcia is going to come out and not have problems that Smelley had? I expect the same up & down performance if he is under center.

Good to see some folks here with their eye on reality. I would also add that I'm sure Smelley did not come into this season expecting (although hopeful) to be the starting QB for half the season, with a 5th-yr. senior QB on the roster. Once again, Smelley had a higher efficiency rating than Mitchell, and 1 point below Staffords'. Do you think Steve Spurrier will not be able to improve Smelley's habit of floating passes? We just need to be patient, but right now, it's Smelley's job to lose, IMO.....

[Spurticus]

The one thing I am not understanding is why everyone is jumping all over Smelley as not being a good QB. Ok, he wasn't wonderful this season, but he was a FRESHMAN! Yeah, he's going to lock onto WRs and make some other mistakes. He had very little gametime experience coming into this season and performed better than what you would expect for a Freshman.

It's foolish to label Smelley's current faults as something he will exhibit his entire career. I would love to see Garcia come in and light the world on fire next year as much as anyone, and he is easily the most talanted QB on our roster. But, more than likely, he'll be a role-playing and change-of-pace QB unless our OL struggles again.

Ultimately, I don't care if Smelley, Garcia, Beecher, or even Brindise is our starting QB. Winning is the ultimate goal. But, in this situation, experience is defining factor, and Chris Smelley will be our starting QB in 2008. And honestly, I think a lot of people are going to be surprised with him in a good way.

Why jump on Smelley for not being that good ?? . . . . . .Because Blake Mitchell will not be here next year !

Seriously
I've read through this thread and could hardly contain my laughter.
3 months ago, they were saying the exact same things about Blake Mitchell they are saying about Chris Smelley now.
"Locks on one receiver" . . ."doesn't have the arm strength" . . . "Gets Nervous in the pocket" . . . . "Lofts the ball too much" etc. . . .
Threads were started when he was pulled saying he was done for, and "It's Smelley's time to shine" !!

Chris did a good job while he was in but saying "He was just a freshman" is misleading. He was a redshirt freshman who had worked in the offense a year with most of the guys he was throwing to, and had seen a few downs on the field last year before getting hurt, so there's a big difference in what he faced and what a True Freshman is up against.
Smelley has a lot of room for improvment but I'm sure he will continue to work hard on his game. I've heard good things about Garcia this fall and I expect him to fight for the starting job very hard. Smelley will have two years experiance working in this offense and that will be hard to overcome IF Chris is a good QB. If not, he'll continue to be a solid Backup guy.
I don't see Spurrier running a two QB system next year. Posts were made when Mitchell got back into the lineup against UT that Spurrier would use them both in a two QB rotation. . . . Spurrier himself said before the UF game that Mitchell would finish the season and would not be pulled again. That tells me that if Spurrier can avoid it, he does not want to entertain the idea of roatating guys in and out. (did the same thing last year when he pulled Newton in the Arky game. . . . he never got under center again) Nice thought for fans to think about having two QB's rotating in and out, but it's not good for solidity of a offensive unity.
If Garcia wins the job this Spring / Fall. . . . . I'm sure he'll be the starter unless he gets hurt. Same for Smelley. My personal Opinion is that with two seasons working with the offense, and Chris was pulled and put with the THIRD DEEP unit after the UT game. . . . . .I would think that Spurrier feels he's not the type QB he wants to run his type of offense, and Blake was as close to it as he was going to get. . . . I think he starts from scratch with Garcia and hopes Stephen can move the offense the way he pictures it is supposed to. Either that, or Chris will have to make some drastic changes in his game before the roster is finalized next fall. For now it's going to be debated from every angle and every wild idea we can come up with concerning the two QB's will be posted between now and September of next year. . . .God help us all

[Nassau Gamecock]

You gotta figure let them play aginst each other in the spring game next year. When is that? I've got to be in Columbia for 2 days early April 2008. Maybe I can catch a baseball game and spring practice.

[roosterrizk1]

I agree Garcia is the better option. Why? He's bigger, stronger, faster, and has a better arm than Smelley. Also, to those saying he is a " little " faster than Smelley are crazy. This kid is as fast or faster than Newton. Also, while everyone thinks that Garcia is not as good as passer I have to disagree. This kid throws lazer beams, but also as the ability to drop one in with touch. I will say if Smelley wins the job he has my 100% support. I also will not discount Beecher just yet. He moves well and has a strong arm. Things will be interesting next year to say the least.

[CoverTwo]

I agree Garcia is the better option. Why? He's bigger, stronger, faster, and has a better arm than Smelley. Also, to those saying he is a " little " faster than Smelley are crazy. This kid is as fast or faster than Newton. Also, while everyone thinks that Garcia is not as good as passer I have to disagree. This kid throws lazer beams, but also as the ability to drop one in with touch. I will say if Smelley wins the job he has my 100% support. I also will not discount Beecher just yet. He moves well and has a strong arm. Things will be interesting next year to say the least.


So I guess you attend the practices? Because one of the problems he has had is that he doesnt put enough touch on his passes, and Spurrier had to get onto him about that..Its all fine and dandy that he put up great numbers in high school, but the SEC is a different animal and he has a lot to prove for me to consider him a better passer than Smelley or any of the other QB's we have.

[kozakid]

I think the truth is no one can forsee what this guy is going to do..Maybe he ends up being great and the savior of our program, or just maybe he ends up being a bust..I dont put a lot of stock in a player "looking great" while running scout team..and I dont buy in just physical attributes..Hell, Dondrial Pinkins supposidly had all the physical tools but he could not read a defense to save his life..Fact is, we need to be humble with Garcia and BE PATIENT..I think the fan base is just too impatient with our program right now, and dont realize that it is going to be a couple more years before Spurrier has us where we need to be...I think with Garcia we need to keep our expectations relatively low because if we as a fan base expect this kid to come out at the gate and throw for 3,000+ yards 20+Td's in his first season under center then a lot of Gamecocks are going to be (even more) disappointed...There are going to be some growing pains..and i dont think a lot of people recognize that.
Hmmmmm. Verrrrry interesting. I'm not so sure I agree.

It's indeed interesting that you picked those numbers because back in '86, top-notch hotshot redshirt frosh Todd Ellis passed for 3,020 yds and exactly 20 TD's; however, his unacceptably high interception total made his first season an overall disappointment. I'm willing to bet the farm that Garcia would never match Ellis INT for INT.

:wink:

[kozakid]

I definately think our o-line is the biggest problem. if we can get some protection, spurrier can make any QB good. they just need a little time in the pocket.
Sometimes I get the feeling that even I would be at least a pretty good Div. 1 quarterback if I only had a decent offensive line.

:clap:

[Dr. Cock]

Chris did a good job while he was in but saying "He was just a freshman" is misleading. He was a redshirt freshman who had worked in the offense a year with most of the guys he was throwing to, and had seen a few downs on the field last year before getting hurt, so there's a big difference in what he faced and what a True Freshman is up against.
True, but he had still not seen significant playing time by any means. He was given roughly three drives to work with in 2006 and never saw the field again with an "heel injury". Now, an extra year learning Spurrier's system helps, but he still lacked major gametime minutes and played behind a faulty OL at best. In reasoning, one of the major factors that led to him receiving the starting job in the middle of the season was him being able to move out of the pocket. The major amount of experience he got THIS year will be an important factor next year.

Smelley has a lot of room for improvment but I'm sure he will continue to work hard on his game. I've heard good things about Garcia this fall and I expect him to fight for the starting job very hard. Smelley will have two years experiance working in this offense and that will be hard to overcome IF Chris is a good QB. If not, he'll continue to be a solid Backup guy. Not gonna argue with you here, although if Garcia is the starter early next year, I think we are in trouble IMO.

I don't see Spurrier running a two QB system next year. Posts were made when Mitchell got back into the lineup against UT that Spurrier would use them both in a two QB rotation. . . . Spurrier himself said before the UF game that Mitchell would finish the season and would not be pulled again. That tells me that if Spurrier can avoid it, he does not want to entertain the idea of roatating guys in and out. (did the same thing last year when he pulled Newton in the Arky game. . . . he never got under center again) Nice thought for fans to think about having two QB's rotating in and out, but it's not good for solidity of a offensive unity. But then again, never underestimate Spurrier's adaptivity. The two QB system is a fairly hot commidity with successful teams... see Florida in 2006 and LSU in 2007. Also, Garcia brings an element that neither Mitchell or Smelley has in his mobility. I'm not labeling him a Tebow, but from what I've seen and heard, he's by far and away the best QB we have at making something happen with his feet. It's an entirely different scenario with the Mitchell/Smelley combo people were wanting against UT (which wouldn't have been very smart, IMO). I think he'll do whatever he can to come here and do what he originally and still is intending to do... win.

If Garcia wins the job this Spring / Fall. . . . . I'm sure he'll be the starter unless he gets hurt. Same for Smelley. I personal Opinion is that with two seasons working with the offense, and Chris was pulled and put with the THIRD DEEP unit after the UT game. . . . . .I would think that Spurrier feels he's not the type QB he wants to run his type of offense, and Blake was as close to it as he was going to get. . . . I respect your opinion and there's certainly a good logically basis behind it. However, Spring brings about an entire new season and I believe it will be a clean slate from the beginning. Smelley's game-time experience will earn him the starting job and seperate him from the pack in my opinion. What it'll come down to is Garcia's ability vs. Smelley's experience, and Chris will offer the more immediate solution for winning in 2008 while Garcia develops and will see a steady increase in snaps as the season progresses on.

I think he starts from scratch with Garcia and hopes Stephen can move the offense the way he pictures it is supposed to. Either that, or Chris will have to make some drastic changes in his game before the roster is finalized next fall.
Again, I think game-time experience > talent for 2008, but either one of us could be right. With Gamecock football, who the hell knows how things are going to turn out.

For now it's going to be debated from every angle and every wild idea we can come up with concerning the two QB's will be posted between now and September of next year. . . .God help us all Amen.

[kozakid]

Well, most Gamecock fans know how Pinkins "shocked" the SEC.

But seriously, the difference between Tebow and those 2 is that Tebow is a MUCH, MUCH, MUCH better passer. Dondrial didn't even grab the laces of the football. The OL was actually one of our stronger points in 2002. If either of those guys had the passing ability of at least, let's say, Phil Petty, they would have been 100x better. But bad decision making and accuracy won't cut it in the SEC.

Petty certainly protected the ball well and got the job done. Sometimes that's all that's needed from a quarterback. The main thing is to keep turnovers to a minimum. Make careful hand-offs to those big, strong, and fast running backs, and make accurate, if not long, passes.

:clap:

[kozakid]

Phil petty threw shotputs...
I agree. But they worked.

:woo:

[roosterrizk1]

So I guess you attend the practices?


No I have not attended practice but I saw him in the Rivals All Star game against a ton of 4/5 star defensive players and have watched enough film to see what I see SA -

By the way, is there a problem with me voicing my opinion ???

[FeartheSpur]

Garcia will throw for 30 + touchdowns next year!!! you heard it here first

[hardcock2]

Garcia will throw for 30 + touchdowns next year!!! you heard it here first
:-o ...I sure hope your right though!!

[kozakid]

Garcia will throw for 30 + touchdowns next year!!! you heard it here first
You may very well be right, but only if he beats out Beecher for the starting job. We seem to be forgetting Tommy in this thread !

:lol:

[kidrobinski]

Chris Smelley is a fine young man, and an asset to our football team.

But if he starts the opening game next year, we are in trouble.

[CoverTwo]

Chris Smelley is a fine young man, and an asset to our football team.

But if he starts the opening game next year, we are in trouble.

:roll:

I think I'll take my chances ON THE ROAD with a RS Soph with game experience and a full understanding of the playbook.

[Spur]

As many people here have said, the favorite player on EVERY team is the backup. So true....and if you have been on this forum...it rings true especially after every loss no matter who has played QB

I want the QB next year that gives us the BEST chance to win NEXT YEAR. None of this "Building for the future" crap...we are in Year 4....we should trying to win the SEC every year. If playing Smelley or whoever gives us the best shot, DO IT. If not and Garcia is the best option, do THAT.

But, if Garcia plays, people are going to expect WAYYYY too much (even though they will say they won't) and people will bash him the minute he throws 2-3 INT's in a game OR loses a game with an error or something. I am getting rather nervous with how much hype we are already giving someone who has yet to see the field.

It reminds me of those that predicted a 7-8 win season during Spurrier's first year AND they said they would be alright with that....but when the ACTUAL losses came and we ACTUALLY felt the sting of the losses....those same people went NUTS and the forums went on meltdowns.

[kozakid]

Chris Smelley is a fine young man, and an asset to our football team.

But if he starts the opening game next year, we are in trouble.
I agree with your perspicacious observations.

:wink:

[CreoleCock]

not exactly my opinion but smelley has not impressed a lot of people.

I think i'm one of those people, i mean, he did good at first, but i would like to see Garcia start and give him a change, if he doesn't do good, we got Smelley.

[Dr. Cock]

As many people here have said, the favorite player on EVERY team is the backup. So true....and if you have been on this forum...it rings true especially after every loss no matter who has played QB

I want the QB next year that gives us the BEST chance to win NEXT YEAR. None of this "Building for the future" crap...we are in Year 4....we should trying to win the SEC every year. If playing Smelley or whoever gives us the best shot, DO IT. If not and Garcia is the best option, do THAT.

But, if Garcia plays, people are going to expect WAYYYY too much (even though they will say they won't) and people will bash him the minute he throws 2-3 INT's in a game OR loses a game with an error or something.

Great post. If Garcia starts to stink it up some, it'll be Hillary or McCollum because they are "proven winners with great attitudes" and so forth. It is imperative that we make a REAL challenge for the title in 2008. History dictates that Year 4 is pretty unkind to our recent coaches. Spurrier has got to break this trend.

[kozakid]

As many people here have said, the favorite player on EVERY team is the backup. So true....and if you have been on this forum...it rings true especially after every loss no matter who has played QB

I want the QB next year that gives us the BEST chance to win NEXT YEAR. None of this "Building for the future" crap...we are in Year 4....we should trying to win the SEC every year. If playing Smelley or whoever gives us the best shot, DO IT. If not and Garcia is the best option, do THAT.

But, if Garcia plays, people are going to expect WAYYYY too much (even though they will say they won't) and people will bash him the minute he throws 2-3 INT's in a game OR loses a game with an error or something.
The errors and INT's inevitably will come, and, when they do, let the naysayers bash Garcia just like true freshman Stafford was bashed at Jawja. If Garcia is clearly the best we have -- and at this point I have no reason to think he won't be -- then let him play through the tough times. If he really is as good as advertised -- and if we're lucky -- the really tough times should be few in number. On the other hand, if he can't get the job done, then we've got Smelley, Beecher, and whoever else is next in line. I just hope we don't end up 6-6 again. Or worse.

:wink:

[IHateOrange]

There are kids every year that come out of high school that are as big as Tebow or have similar stats. But if Garcia had the talent that Tebow had, he wouldn't have RS this year. Like I said, it's likely we'll never see another qb like Tebow. We shouldn't compare him to Tebow because it creates false expectations.

All you need to do is look back to SOS claiming we were making a run at the SEC title, and how disappointed we are now. Before the season, people were saying how Culliver would have a Percy Harvin role and have the same effect as him this year. Look how that turned out...

Garcia kinda screwed that up by being suspended for spring practice. Had he not I think things would of been different.

[SNEEZ]

What about Smelley?

I have not seen anything other than mediocre qb play at best, 9TD 7 INT

not good enough. NEXT!

[kozakid]

Garcia kinda screwed that up by being suspended for spring practice. Had he not I think things would of been different.

I suspect you may be right. If not for his run-ins with the law, I really believe there's a good chance he would've played this season.
:clap:

[SNEEZ]

hopefulyl we will move to a MIzzou-esque Spread option. I LOOOVE that scheme!

[CockySpurrier85]

because he will

[IHateOrange]

I suspect you may be right. If not for his run-ins with the law, I really believe there's a good chance he would've played this season.
:clap:
With all the QB controversy there was this year... I mean Beecher played for god sakes. Garcia would of been there if not for missing spring practice. I mean he got into school a semester early. His and Spurriers ORIGINAL intentions were that he would see the field.

[JAYBEZ]

I have not seen anything other than mediocre qb play at best, 9TD 7 INT

not good enough. NEXT!

Congrats! You have reached the top ten list of crazy post!

Your philosophy is spot on. Give a kid that had less then a year to learn the Spurrier offense, 5 games to prove himself. Your are right, by this point we have seen the full potential of Chris Smelley. He surely isn't going to develope any further.

Chuck him to the side and lets see who we can crush with overwhelming expectations next...


Ofcourse this would also require us to forget that he is 4-1 and won a couple weeks of SEC freshman of the week honors.

He has just as much upside as anyone.

[IHateOrange]

Congrats! You have reached the top ten list of crazy post!

Your philosophy is spot on. Give a kid that had less then a year to learn the Spurrier offense, 5 games to prove himself. Your are right, by this point we have seen the full potential of Chris Smelley. He surely isn't going to develope any further.

Chuck him to the side and lets see who we can crush with overwhelming expectations next...


Ofcourse this would also require us to forget that he is 4-1 and won a couple weeks of SEC freshman of the week honors.

He has just as much upside as anyone.

Last time I checked he was on the field against Georgia more than a year ago.

[Spur]

Congrats! You have reached the top ten list of crazy post!

Your philosophy is spot on. Give a kid that had less then a year to learn the Spurrier offense, 5 games to prove himself. Your are right, by this point we have seen the full potential of Chris Smelley. He surely isn't going to develope any further.

Chuck him to the side and lets see who we can crush with overwhelming expectations next...

Ofcourse this would also require us to forget that he is 4-1 and won a couple weeks of SEC freshman of the week honors.

He has just as much upside as anyone.

Never did I think I would say this....

JAYBEZ, you hit the nail directly on the head

[big cock fan]

Im sorry but i just dont think anyone will beat out Chris next year. I will be very suprised. He was just a freshmen people and he did very well. Everyone is on him for locking onto just one guy, well at that time of the year we only had one guy to throw it to, with a terrible oline. I think he did pretty dang good. So we need to get off this freshmens back and just be supportive of whoever we have in there.

[IHateOrange]

Just a point I want to make for those saying Smelley only had 1 receiver to throw to. It could be correct it could be way off. BUT didn't it seem that Lecorn came to shine once Blake gained the starting job back? Meaning we had a qb that was able to get him the ball.

[dgusc06]

I believe that Garcia will be the starter because he has an incredibly strong arm and the ability to scramble if he needs to. He can also throw while on the run which is something i have not seen from a USC QB this year. I think that smelley is a good QB, and i think his laser eyes for one WR can be fixed, but i also think that he does not have a strong enough arm to stretch the D and hit the long ball like Garcia can. I am not gonna guarantee a starter now but Garcia is a little ahead on my list of hopefulls. Plus he drives a moped so that is instant stardom!

[carolina fan]

i want us to have a qb who is aggressive and wants to rip the D apart, with quick decision making as well as quick feet. sounds like Garcia could be the man.

[Coondog]

I agree that it's Smelley's job to lose. He has 2 years under Spurrier's system and PT. Experience will be a large factor, but on the feild performance will win the job. I think Smelley is a very good QB, but I also think Garcia is the better athelete and has the tools to be a great one. He also has an intense winning attitude about him that we really need in a leader. With that said, IMO Garcia may not win the starting job this Spring but he will by the end of fall practice and not look back.

[akn4bkn]

cause he will

[thedude0486]

Well I am deffinantly a Garcia fan because of watching his scout vids. And with what i have seen this season college football is moving towards the mobile dual threat QB as the norm if you want to have success. You simply cannot account for what a Qb like TeaBLOW can do with just 11 men on the field.

My most important point though is until I see Garcia play i wouldnt dare start making caomparisons between him and the man beast that TeaBLOW is.

On the other hand with Smelley we know what we are getting for the most part. Hopefully he will learn to read routes and not underthrow recievers like he did against Vandy.

IMO i hope SOS can incorperate Culliver playing a Harvin like role and we can have a LSU like QB rotation which i think is highly likely considering SOS was the first to ever have basically two starting QB's when he was at UF.

[Darth Visor]

i think Garcia has a great shot at being the starter, but i think you guys are giving up a little too much on Chris.......i still think he can be a great QB here for us.........idk whoever Coach says should play is who should play.......although i have to admit, i am kind of pulling for Garcia to come in and show his stuff haha

[ucock]

SOS has been bragging on garcia the last 2 weeks in pracitice. if he hadnt got arrested and suspended for the spring he would have been playin all along.

[evilpoptart]

not exactly my opinion but smelley has not impressed a lot of people.

he was a freshman. I thought he showed a bunch of good things this year.

[SNEEZ]

I can't wait until Spring Game. LMAO to be able to see Garcia in action and we can see Smelley vs Garcia head to head for the starting job!

[SNEEZ]

he was a freshman. I thought he showed a bunch of good things this year.

Redshirt Freshman

[psychwr2]

i don't think he'll start on opening night, but i think there may be a situation somewhere in the season to where he'll take over. i'm not saying that Chris will get in trouble, i'm just saying that i think that Stephen just is more flexible as a qb than Chris is, and that will give him the edge sometime next season. i hope that it's a game we win, but sooner or later Stephen's ability will surpass Chris'.

[mic4usc]

ive heard alot about stephen Garcia and i just wanted to know if he is our front runner for next season to start. i think he would be great for our team.
anybody know? who might be our starter next year?

[Spur's Addiction]

there is a pretty good discussion going in this thread.

http://www.cockytalk.com/showthread.php?t=55392

[jlong0453]

i dont know for sure but my guess they will switch playing but i think at the begining Smelly will take the postion cause of his experence on the field but Garcia may improve a bunch so will see

[GeathersFan]

We will not know who will start until after camp.

[Flameout12]

WHO’S THE QUARTERBACK IN ‘08?

Time will tell, but expect freshman Stephen Garcia to receive ample opportunity to win the job this spring. As much time as he spends on arm angles and throwing motions, Spurrier has come to appreciate mobile quarterbacks, a la Syvelle Newton.

“You need a guy that’ll jump up in there and make 5, 7 yards every now and then, and Stephen can do that,” Spurrier said. “He’s a good athlete that can run around. He’s an excellent passer. He’s got a lot to learn. But that’s why we have practice.”

Garcia will share spring reps with Tommy Beecher and Chris Smelley, the redshirt freshman who was 4-1 as a starter before losing his spot to Blake Mitchell. Smelley, who will be 22 next fall, has the upper hand as far as experience and knowing the offense.

But if Garcia stays out of trouble, he might be the fit for an offense that Spurrier plans to tweak.

“I’m looking forward to that (competition) and seeing how Stephen Garcia can learn what we’re trying to do,” Spurrier said. “We’ll put in some quarterback run stuff, like everybody else does, and see if that won’t help our offense.”

http://www.gogamecocks.com/index.php/site/daily_article/five_football_questions_next_in_line/

[AZTECGAMECOCK]

sounds exciting!!!!!!!!!!.....im ready for spring practice.

[SC Sandlapper]

This is going to be the longest off season ever.

[CaptainCrunch]

good read, can't wait til spring practices start

[hayesnumber76]

Cant have a Tim Tebow on everyteam, but I believe that people will be talking about Stephen Garcia, and not Tim Tebow come 2 years... trust me.

[akn4bkn]

Wait till next year!!! (when Garcia is a sophmore, junior, senior, new QB after garcia starts playing, etc.)

[roosterrizk1]

Garcia will be fun to watch. He has ALL the tools...

[garnet4ever]

these days you need to have a mobile QB, I hope he does well. Hopefully we'll get the OL right at the beginning of the season and he won't have to come out of running it ...

[bigmuthafooka]

all hail Garcia! yall think they will sell his jersey this year if he starts?

[SpuR48]

all hail Garcia! yall think they will sell his jersey this year if he starts?

Might as well. Then we'll have Carlos Thomas/Stephen Garcia jerseys! lol

[bigmuthafooka]

Might as well. Then we'll have Carlos Thomas/Stephen Garcia jerseys! lol

i might have to buy both of them then lol

[bigmuthafooka]

does anyone knw where to buy those caveman wigs and beards, like the ones Red Sox fans wore to look like Johnny Damon? cuz i want one to wear next year with a Garcia jersey! lol

[clemsonhater007]

Do you think he will start next year?
:kill: :football:

[TheGuitarCock]

no

[usc1]

yes

[atrain3067]

Check back with me after the Spring Game. We'll all have a better idea then, and an even better one after fall practice. I think personally that we'll use both Smelley and Garcia, as a Chris Leak and Tim Tebow style combination, but as to how much each plays, I'm not sure.

SOS Next Fall: Who's the starting QB, well we're fortunate to have two starting QB's. I mean both of 'em pitch it around nicely. Do some good things here and there, so...yep, were fortunate to have two guys that can really play here.

[COCKDIESEL]

Do you think he will start next year?
:kill: :football:
does my opinion really matter?






But since you asked, at some point I think you will see Garcia start next year. But to start the season I believe that Smelley is the guy. Not saying that Smelley will not do a good job but that Spurrier may get impatient with him if he slacks up just a little bit. Then you will see the switch to Garcia even if just for a few quarters.

[TStone]

Well, it's pretty much between Garcia, Smelley and Beecher.

Other than that if you can tell right now who is going to start next football season maybe you should be the QB coach since even our own QB coach (who happens to be Spurrier) doesn't know who's going to start.

[big cock fan]

this is not a flame but i dont understand why people think he is tim tebow. This kid is not built like a linebacker like tebow, all tebow does is follow his blockers for 5 yard TD's, he is very very good at it.

Garcia is a gun slinger like a brett farve, he wants to throw the ball its just that he is able to run if he has to.

I think chris is going to be amazing next year, he got loads of experience last year and did pretty damn good considering the guy was a freshmen.

And honestly know one knows how good this kid is, we will have to wait till spring, and even then if our oline dont block it dont matter who is back there.


...BCF

[TStone]

And honestly know one knows how good this kid is, we will have to wait till spring, and even then if our oline dont block it dont matter who is back there.

Actually I disagree with you on this point. Garcia has already proven to be a much more mobile (or at least much more willing to run) QB than Smelley or Beecher. If the O-line is struggling that badly I would expect to see Garcia get the rock for mobility sake.

As far as who the best passer is it's still a toss-up.

[bhall]

Not another thread about this.

:thumbs: :thumbs: :thumbs: :thumbs:

[USCbaseballguy]

Garcia is awesome. He will start. He is not Tebow. He will be better than Tebow.

[big cock fan]

Actually I disagree with you on this point. Garcia has already proven to be a much more mobile (or at least much more willing to run) QB than Smelley or Beecher. If the O-line is struggling that badly I would expect to see Garcia get the rock for mobility sake.

As far as who the best passer is it's still a toss-up.

I didnt mean that he wasnt more mobile, i just meant i dont think he is tim tebow. This kid has a cannon for an arm, we arent just going to start running the option now bc we have him. We have tried that with antonio heffner and that didnt do anything for us.

[TStone]

I didnt mean that he wasnt more mobile, i just meant i dont think he is tim tebow. This kid has a cannon for an arm, we arent just going to start running the option now bc we have him. We have tried that with antonio heffner and that didnt do anything for us.

I agree with that. That's why I only quoted part of your post. You said if the O-line isn't blocking it doesn't matter who we put back there. That's what I disagreed about. The O-line not blocking will be a big problem for any passer, but a mobile passer will be able to make more out of it. I didn't say anything about the option or him being Tim Tebow. I think on both of those counts you are correct.

[TheGuitarCock]

My take:
Nobody has seen him play. So mostly important, his talent, is unknown to us. From what we have heard he does good with the scout team. But thats just it, we can't draw conclusions. Personally, I think Smelley will start most games next year unless Garcia is something we don't know about. I just think Chris has more experience with the system and got in some good playing time this year. Hopefully the O-line can give our QB time to pass and do their assignments. I guess we will see come spring.

[big cock fan]

I agree with that. That's why I only quoted part of your post. You said if the O-line isn't blocking it doesn't matter who we put back there. That's what I disagreed about. The O-line not blocking will be a big problem for any passer, but a mobile passer will be able to make more out of it. I didn't say anything about the option or him being Tim Tebow. I think on both of those counts you are correct.

sorry TStone, i had a blonde moment. I agree with what you say.

And I will say this, if Garcia starts the season then we are going to have one hell of a QB that is able to beat out chris and tommy. Either way i cant wait till spring.

[Gamecockfanatic4]

No, Smelley will start imo

[WeHailTheeCarolina]

Not another thread about this.

:thumbs: :thumbs: :thumbs: :thumbs:

Well,atleast its not a thread with a poll about what uni's we will wear for the Spring Game...

[TheGuitarCock]

Well,atleast its not a thread with a poll about what uni's we will wear for the Spring Game...

I heard Garnet and Black:lol:

[Clemsux182]

God I hope so. If he starts that means he's good enough in Spurriers book which means he'll light the field UP.

[crevil3lf]

Do you think he will start next year?
:kill: :football:
Yeah. I don't know when next season. But he will start 4 games. Don't think Smelley is talented enough to hold him off.

[bigmuthafooka]

yep he'll start

[big cock fan]

where does that come from? how is chris not telented enough? bc of what you saw in his freshmen year? If thats the case i guess Chris culliver isnt telented enough to play football either.

I dont understand why people think freshmen are supposed to be hesiman contenders there first year.

[bigmuthafooka]

where does that come from? how is chris not telented enough? bc of what you saw in his freshmen year? If thats the case i guess Chris culliver isnt telented enough to play football either.

I dont understand why people think freshmen are supposed to be hesiman contenders there first year.

its not that i dnt think Smelley is a good QB, i just think that Garcia can be a better one, i knw he has'nt played in a game yet or anything, but i just got a felling he is gonna be special

[TStone]

where does that come from? how is chris not telented enough? bc of what you saw in his freshmen year? If thats the case i guess Chris culliver isnt telented enough to play football either.

I dont understand why people think freshmen are supposed to be hesiman contenders there first year.

Folks tend to gravitate toward new things. Fact is nobody has seen Garcia throw a football in a real college game and Smelley actually had a pretty good year in the games he played in 2007. Even Spurrier said after the Clemson game that maybe he should have left Smelley in for the rest of the season. Whether that translates to success going forward nobody yet knows.